Can I take Evana heavy period relief and Mefenamic acid together?

Why this happens

Both Evana (which contains tranexamic acid and ibuprofen) and mefenamic acid belong to the same family of medicines called NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs). Taking more than one NSAID at a time does not provide better pain relief but does double the risk of side effects.

What you should do

Do not take these two medicines together. Evana already contains a full dose of ibuprofen. If your period pain is not controlled by Evana, speak to your pharmacist or GP about adding paracetamol instead, which is safe to use alongside Evana.

Important precautions

History of blood clots or family history of clotting disorders

You must not take Evana if you have ever had a blood clot (thrombosis) in your leg, lung, or eye, or if you have a family history of inherited clotting conditions, as it increases the risk of a serious or fatal blockage.

Asthma

Do not take mefenamic acid if you have asthma that is worsened by aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as it can trigger a severe and potentially life-threatening asthma attack.

Combined Hormonal Contraception

Do not use Evana if you are using combined hormonal contraception (such as 'the pill', the patch, or the vaginal ring), as the combination significantly increases your risk of developing dangerous blood clots.

Stomach ulcers or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Avoid mefenamic acid if you have a history of stomach ulcers, perforation, or bleeding, or if you have active IBD (like Crohn's or Ulcerative Colitis), as it can cause severe gastric bleeding or a flare-up of your condition.

Pregnancy (third trimester)

Do not take mefenamic acid if you are more than 28 weeks pregnant, as it can cause serious heart and kidney problems in the unborn baby and complications during delivery.

Kidney Problems

Do not take Evana if you have severe kidney failure. If you have any known kidney issues, you must consult a doctor first as the dose may need to be adjusted to prevent the medicine from building up to toxic levels.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

While there is no direct chemical interaction, both alcohol and mefenamic acid can irritate the stomach lining. Combining them may increase your risk of stomach upset or gastric bleeding. It is best to limit alcohol intake while taking these medicines.

Food (General)

Mefenamic acid should be taken with or just after a meal or snack. This helps to protect your stomach lining and reduces the risk of indigestion or stomach pain.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.