Generic
Tolfenamic Acid
25 brands available in the market
At a glance
Tolfenamic Acid is a pain relieving medicine used for acute migraine attacks and mild to moderate pain. It is an NSAID that works by blocking chemical messengers that cause fever, pain, and inflammation.
Description
Tolfenamic acid, an anthranilic acid derivative, is an NSAID with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic effects. It inhibits cyclooxygenase enzyme, reducing synthesis of thromboxane B2 and prostaglandin E2.
Indications
- Acute migraine attacks
- Mild to moderate pain
- Post-operative pain and fever
Therapeutic class
Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis, NSAIDs, Other drugs for migraine
Pharmacological class
Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
Pharmacology
Tolfenamic acid inhibits cyclooxygenase enzyme, thus inhibiting synthesis of inflammatory mediators such as thromboxane B2 and prostaglandin E2. It also has direct antagonistic action on prostaglandin receptors.
Mechanism of action
Inhibits cyclooxygenase enzyme, reducing prostaglandin synthesis, thereby relieving pain, inflammation, and fever.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Acute migraine: 200 mg at first symptoms; may repeat after 1-2 hours if necessary
- Mild to moderate pain: 100-200 mg three times daily
- Severe renal/hepatic impairment: Avoid
Administration
- Take with food
- Take with a glass of water
- Do not chew or crush the tablet
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; if almost time for next dose, skip it; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Indigestion
- Diarrhea
- Heartburn
- Loss of appetite
Precautions & warnings
- May decrease alertness, affect vision, or cause dizziness; do not drive
- Long-term use may cause stomach bleeding and kidney problems
- May increase risk of blood clots, heart attack, or stroke
- Consult doctor if pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to aspirin or other NSAIDs
- Active or history of GI bleeding or ulceration
- Severe heart failure
- History of GI bleeding or perforation related to previous NSAID therapy
- Severe renal and hepatic impairment
- Pregnancy (3rd trimester)
Drug interactions
- Metoclopramide and magnesium hydroxide: increased absorption rate
- Aluminium hydroxide: decreased absorption rate
- Anticoagulants and other NSAIDs: increased risk of bleeding
- Loop diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors: decreased antihypertensive response
- Lithium, methotrexate, cardiac glycosides: increased plasma concentrations
- ACE inhibitors, ciclosporin, tacrolimus, diuretics: increased risk of nephrotoxicity
Food interactions
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Tolfenamic Acid.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: May be unsafe; limited human studies, animal studies show harmful effects; consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Information not available; consult your doctor.
Pediatric use
Pediatric dosage regimen has not been established
Geriatric use
Caution required in elderly patients
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Severe: Avoid; dose adjustment may be needed
Hepatic Impairment: Severe: Avoid; dose adjustment may be needed
Overdose effects
Symptoms: Headache, nausea, vomiting, GI bleeding, drowsiness, dizziness, convulsions.
Treatment: Symptomatic and supportive.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, away from light; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
C14H12ClNO2