Usage
Camylofin + Mefenamic Acid is prescribed for the relief of abdominal pain associated with conditions like intestinal colic, biliary colic, renal colic, dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation), and pancreatitis. It is also used to alleviate abdominal cramps linked with diarrhea.
It is classified pharmacologically as an antispasmodic and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) combination.
Camylofin works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing spasms and contractions. Mefenamic acid inhibits cyclooxygenase enzymes, reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for pain and inflammation.
Alternate Names
No widely recognized alternate names exist for this specific combination. It is generally referred to by its constituent drug names. Brand names vary depending on the region and manufacturer, and include Anafortan-MF and Bigspas-M.
How It Works
Pharmacodynamics: Camylofin exerts its antispasmodic effect through a dual mechanism: as an anticholinergic agent by inhibiting acetylcholine binding to muscarinic receptors, and through direct smooth muscle relaxation by inhibiting phosphodiesterase type IV, leading to increased cyclic AMP and reduced cytosolic calcium. Mefenamic acid, an NSAID, inhibits cyclooxygenase enzymes, decreasing prostaglandin synthesis, thus reducing pain and inflammation.
Pharmacokinetics: Both drugs are absorbed orally. Camylofin’s metabolism and elimination pathways are not clearly defined. Mefenamic acid is metabolized in the liver and excreted primarily through the kidneys.
Mode of Action: Camylofin acts on smooth muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, reducing spasms and contractions. Mefenamic acid inhibits COX enzymes, leading to decreased prostaglandin production, thereby reducing pain and inflammation. No specific receptor binding or neurotransmitter modulation information is available for this combination.
Elimination Pathways: Specific elimination pathways for Camylofin are not well-defined. Mefenamic acid is metabolized in the liver and primarily excreted renally.
Dosage
Standard Dosage
Adults:
The typical adult dose is one tablet containing 50 mg camylofin and 250 mg mefenamic acid, taken three times a day. The dosage may vary depending on the specific indication and patient response. It should be taken with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
Children:
This medication is generally not recommended for children under 12 years of age. For children over 12, the dosage should be determined by a physician, considering factors such as weight and the specific condition being treated.
Special Cases:
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Elderly Patients: Lower doses may be necessary due to increased risk of adverse effects. Close monitoring is recommended.
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Patients with Renal Impairment: Use with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustments may be required.
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Patients with Hepatic Dysfunction: Use with caution. Dose adjustments may be required. Close monitoring of liver function is necessary.
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Patients with Comorbid Conditions: Exercise caution in patients with heart disease, hypertension, liver disease, kidney disease, or asthma.
Clinical Use Cases Dosages for these specific clinical use cases are not explicitly defined and should be determined by a physician based on individual patient needs.
- Intubation
- Surgical Procedures
- Mechanical Ventilation
- Intensive Care Unit (ICU) Use
- Emergency Situations
Dosage Adjustments
Dose adjustments should be individualized based on patient factors, including renal or hepatic dysfunction, and other relevant comorbid conditions.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- Nausea, vomiting
- Abdominal discomfort
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Dizziness, headache
- Dry mouth
- Skin rash
Rare but Serious Side Effects
- Gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration
- Allergic reactions (e.g., swelling of face, lips, tongue, difficulty breathing)
- Liver damage (jaundice, dark urine)
- Kidney problems
- Blood disorders
Long-Term Effects
Long-term use of NSAIDs like mefenamic acid may increase the risk of cardiovascular events and gastrointestinal complications.
Adverse Drug Reactions (ADR)
Clinically significant ADRs include severe gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration, allergic reactions, liver damage, and kidney problems.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to camylofin or mefenamic acid
- History of gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding
- Severe kidney or liver disease
- Asthma attacks triggered by NSAIDs
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Prostatic hypertrophy
- Mechanical bowel obstruction
- Coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG)
- Third trimester of pregnancy
Drug Interactions
- Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin)
- Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone)
- Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs like fluoxetine)
- Antihypertensives
- Other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin)
- Alcohol
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
This combination should be avoided in the third trimester of pregnancy. Use during the first two trimesters and breastfeeding should be under strict medical supervision and only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
Drug Profile Summary
- Mechanism of Action: Camylofin: Antispasmodic (anticholinergic and direct smooth muscle relaxant). Mefenamic acid: NSAID (COX inhibitor).
- Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, dizziness, headache, skin rash. Serious side effects include GI bleeding, liver damage.
- Contraindications: Hypersensitivity, GI ulceration, severe liver/kidney disease, asthma triggered by NSAIDs, third trimester of pregnancy.
- Drug Interactions: Anticoagulants, corticosteroids, antidepressants, antihypertensives, alcohol.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Avoid in third trimester; caution in first two trimesters and breastfeeding.
- Dosage: Adults: 50mg/250mg tablet TID. Pediatric: Not recommended under 12 years; over 12, physician discretion.
- Monitoring Parameters: Liver function, kidney function, signs of GI bleeding.
Popular Combinations
This particular combination is itself considered a common pairing in clinical practice for managing abdominal pain and cramps. It capitalizes on the antispasmodic properties of camylofin and the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of mefenamic acid.
Precautions
Screen for allergies and any contraindicated medical conditions before prescribing. Exercise caution in patients with pre-existing medical conditions like heart disease, hypertension, asthma. Avoid alcohol during treatment. Caution advised in elderly patients and those with liver or kidney impairment. Use in pregnancy and breastfeeding should be under strict medical supervision. Avoid driving or operating machinery if experiencing dizziness or drowsiness.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: What is the recommended dosage for Camylofin + Mefenamic Acid?
A: The standard adult dose is one tablet (50 mg camylofin/250 mg mefenamic acid) three times daily. Pediatric dosing should be determined by a physician.
Q2: What are the primary uses of this combination?
A: It is primarily used to manage abdominal pain associated with conditions such as intestinal colic, biliary colic, renal colic, dysmenorrhea, and pancreatitis.
Q3: Is it safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
A: It’s contraindicated in the third trimester of pregnancy and should be used with caution during the first two trimesters and breastfeeding, only under strict medical supervision.
Q4: What are the common side effects?
A: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, diarrhea or constipation, dizziness, and skin rashes.
Q5: Are there any serious side effects to be aware of?
A: Yes, rare but serious side effects include gastrointestinal bleeding, allergic reactions, and liver or kidney problems.
Q6: What other medications should be avoided while taking this combination?
A: Avoid concomitant use with anticoagulants, corticosteroids, antidepressants, antihypertensives, and other NSAIDs. Alcohol should also be avoided.
Q7: Can patients with liver or kidney problems take this medication?
A: Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease. Dose adjustments and close monitoring are often necessary.
Q8: Are there any specific dietary recommendations while on this medication?
A: It’s advisable to take this medication with food or milk to minimize potential gastrointestinal side effects. Maintaining adequate hydration and a balanced diet is also recommended.
Q9: What should a patient do if they experience severe abdominal pain after taking this medication?
A: They should seek immediate medical attention, as it could be a sign of a serious complication such as gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration.
