We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Treatments

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Is the Difference between Tranexamic Acid and Mefenamic Acid?

By Erik J.J. Goserud
Updated: Mar 03, 2024
Views: 19,150
Share

Although tranexamic acid and mefenamic acid may sound similar to the untrained ear, there are actually a number of distinct differences between these two chemicals. Both may be of acidic nature; however, their similarity is limited to this characteristic. They are also used differently, to treat excessive bleeding and pain, respectively.

Tranexamic acid is chemically termed cyclohexanecarboxylic acid and is composed of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. Pharmaceutically, this chemical is used as a blood clotting mechanism to treat excessive bleeding. The way in which tranexamic acid acts is through the inhibition of a molecule responsible for breaking down fibrin. By preventing the breakdown of fibrin, more of the moledule is present to aid in the clotting of blood.

Mefenamic acid acts as a NSAID, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, in the treatment of pain and swelling. It's most often used to treat menstrual pain. The chemical name for mefenamic acid is dimethylphenyl aminobenzoic acid. Those who take this substance regularly for mentrual issues generally start their course a day or two prior to menstruation and remain on the medication through the cyclical process. The exact mechanism in which this acidic chemical benefits pain sufferers is unknown; however, ongoing research is underway in an attempt to explain such interactions.

Both tranexamic acid and mefenamic acid are composed of hydrogen, oxygen, carbon, and nitrogen, but the arrangement and number of atoms of these elements differ in a manner that makes each substance unique. They are sometimes mentioned together, most often under the context of menstruation. These chemicals may be prescribed or used in coalition with one another to ease the sometimes painful and burdening process. Tranexamic acid may slow the bleeding, while mefenamic acid reduces pain. In this way, they may act to lighten the burden of the menstrual cycle.

When taking any new medication, it is important for patients to assess the potential risks and side effects associated with them. This is best done in the presence of a medical professional who is knowledgeable and educated on the subject. Common side effects may be as minor as an upset stomach or as severe as permanent blood clotting problems. For this reason, the decision to take either medication should be one of a deliberate nature.

Share
The Health Board is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.thehealthboard.com/what-is-the-difference-between-tranexamic-acid-and-mefenamic-acid.htm
Copy this link
The Health Board, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

The Health Board, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.