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Meclofenamate

Pronounced

"me-KLOE-fen-am-ate SO-dee-um"

Uses

See also Warning section.

Meclofenamate is used to relieve pain from various conditions (such as headache, dental pain, muscle aches, and gout attacks) and to decrease pain and blood loss from menstrual periods. It is also used to reduce fever and to relieve minor aches and pain due to the common cold or flu.

Meclofenamate is also used to reduce pain, swelling, and joint stiffness from arthritis.

Meclofenamate is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking your body's production of certain natural substances that cause inflammation. This effect helps to decrease swelling, pain, or fever.

If you are treating a chronic condition such as arthritis, ask your doctor about non-drug treatments and/or using other medications to treat your pain.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking meclofenamate and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 3 to 4 times a day or as needed. Take this medication with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this medication. If stomach upset occurs while taking this medication, take it with food, milk, or an antacid.

The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects, take this medication at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. For ongoing conditions such as arthritis, keep taking this medication as directed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor or pharmacist.

For certain conditions (such as arthritis), it may take up to 3 weeks of taking this drug regularly until you get the full benefit.

If you are taking this drug "as needed" (not on a regular schedule), remember that pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain occur. If you wait until the pain has worsened, the medicine may not work as well.

Tell your doctor if your condition gets worse.

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Information expires December 2025.