Last Updated: 12/27/2024
Meclofenamate sodium
Drug Name(s): generic only
Class: NSAIDs
Used to treat mild to moderate pain of osteoarthritis (OA) and to reduce pain, swelling and joint stiffness from rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Dosage
Form(s): Capsule
200 to 400 mg daily in three to four doses.
Special Instructions
Do not take with other prescription or over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Take at the same time every day. Take with food or an antacid.
Potential Side Effects
Abdominal cramps, pain or discomfort; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; gastrointestinal bleeding; headache; heartburn; high blood pressure; nausea or vomiting; peptic ulcer; swelling of feet; rash; ringing in the ears
Be Aware
- Before taking any type of NSAID, tell your doctor if you drink alcohol or take blood thinners (including warfarin), ACE inhibitors, lithium or furosemide. Also report any sensitivity or allergy to aspirin or similar drugs.
- All non-aspirin NSAIDs may cause an increased risk of serious blood clots, heart attack and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk increases with dose and duration of use. Patients who have or who are at risk for cardiovascular disease are at greater risk for these complications.
- NSAIDs increase the risk of serious gastroinestinal side effects, including bleeding, ulceration, and gastric or intestinal perforation, which can be fatal.
- Do not take NSAIDs late in pregnancy.
The Arthritis Foundation’s Drug Guide is meant for education — not self-medicating. The Arthritis Foundation does not endorse any products mentioned in this guide. While we endeavor to keep the information up to date, we make no representations or warranties about the completeness of the information provided.
