MEFENAMINE Meaning and
Definition
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Mefenamine, also known as Methenamine, is a medication that falls into the class of urinary antiseptics. It is primarily used to prevent and treat various urinary tract infections caused by bacteria. Its mechanism of action involves exerting an antimicrobial effect within the urinary system.
Mefenamine works by breaking down into formaldehyde and ammonia in an acidic environment. These byproducts are then released within the urine, creating an environment that is unfavorable for bacterial growth. This inhibits the multiplication and survival of bacteria, thereby helping to eradicate the infection.
This medication is commonly prescribed for individuals with recurring urinary tract infections or individuals who are prone to developing such infections. It is particularly effective against certain strains of bacteria, including Escherichia coli, a common cause of urinary tract infections.
Mefenamine is usually taken orally and is available in tablet and capsule forms. The dosage and duration of treatment may vary depending on the severity of the infection and the patient's response to the medication. It is important to follow the prescribed instructions and complete the entire course of treatment to ensure the eradication of the infection.
As with any medication, there may be side effects associated with mefenamine use, including gastrointestinal disturbances, nausea, vomiting, and allergic reactions. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before taking this medication, especially if one has a history of liver or kidney problems. Furthermore, it is important to inform the healthcare provider about any other medications or supplements being taken concurrently to prevent any potential drug interactions.
Common Misspellings for MEFENAMINE
- nefenamine
- kefenamine
- jefenamine
- mwfenamine
- msfenamine
- mdfenamine
- mrfenamine
- m4fenamine
- m3fenamine
- medenamine
- mecenamine
- mevenamine
- megenamine
- merenamine
- mefwnamine
- mefsnamine
- mefdnamine
- mefrnamine
- mef4namine
- mef3namine
Etymology of MEFENAMINE
The word "Mefenamine" is a combination of two terms - "mefenamic acid" and "amine". Here is the breakdown:
1. Mefenamic Acid: The term "mefenamic" comes from a contraction of "methylfenylamine acid".
- Methyl: refers to the chemical group methyl, which consists of one carbon atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms (CH3).
- Fenylamine: refers to the chemical compound phenylamine (also called aniline), which is an organic compound containing a phenyl group (C6H5) attached to an amino group (NH2). The term "fenylamine" is thus derived from "phenyl" and "amine".
- Acid: refers to the acidic nature of the compound as it has carboxylic acid functional groups (COOH).
