Drug Interaction Report

Magaldrate and Mefenamic Acid: Interaction Details

AI-assisted, pharmacist-reviewed · Source data updated Aug 8, 2026 · Sources: FDA labeling, DDInter 2.0, cited literature

Mefenamic Acid

Ponstel®
+

Magaldrate

No brand names on record
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS
Medically reviewed by
Updated Aug 8, 2026
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Interaction severity
Major
Potentially serious — often needs a change or close monitoring.
How we grade severity & evidence

Severity levels

  • Contraindicated: These should generally not be used together.
  • Major: Potentially serious — often needs a change or close monitoring.
  • Moderate: Can be significant — usually manageable with monitoring.
  • Minor: Usually limited clinical impact.

Evidence grades

  • Established: Well documented — supported by controlled studies or strong clinical data.
  • Probable: Good supporting evidence, though not definitively proven.
  • Suspected: Some evidence suggests this interaction, but it is not well established.
  • Possible: Limited or conflicting evidence; the interaction may occur.
  • Theoretical: Predicted from the drugs' pharmacology; not yet confirmed in people.

Ratings come from the documented interaction literature and are reviewed by a pharmacist. They describe the documented risk of the combination, not what will necessarily happen to you — your dose, timing, and health picture all matter.

Of 55 documented Magaldrate interactions, 14 are rated major — including this one.
Worried about symptoms right now? Contact your pharmacist or prescriber, or call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 (US). Call 911 for an emergency.
Onset
unspecified
Evidence
theoretical
Severity
Major

What happens

Increased exposure to mefenamic acid

Interaction Deep Dive

Coadministration of mefenamic acid and an antacid may increase plasma concentrations and exposure to mefenamic acid. Mefenamic acid 500 mg given with magnesium hydroxide 1.7 g resulted in an increase in mefenamic acid Cmax by 125% and the AUC by 36% (N=6). Concomitant use of mefenamic acid with an antacid is generally not recommended1. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, monitor for possible NSAID toxicity and adjust the doses accordingly.

Why it happens (mechanism)

Increased absorption of mefenamic acid

Common questions

Can I take Magaldrate and Mefenamic Acid together?

Increased exposure to mefenamic acid Always confirm with your pharmacist or prescriber before making any change.

How serious is the Magaldrate and Mefenamic Acid interaction?

It is rated major. Potentially serious — often needs a change or close monitoring.

How quickly could this interaction happen?

The documented onset is "unspecified". The timing of this interaction is not well characterized.

How strong is the evidence for this interaction?

The evidence is graded "theoretical". Predicted from the drugs' pharmacology; not yet confirmed in people.

Questions for your pharmacist

  • Does my dose of Magaldrate or Mefenamic Acid need adjusting while I take them together?
  • What symptoms should prompt me to call you or my prescriber right away?
  • Does the timing of my doses matter for this combination?
  • Is there a safer alternative to one of these medications for me?

References (1)

  1. Product Information: mefenamic acid oral capsules, mefenamic acid oral capsules. Prasco Laboratories (per FDA), Mason, OH, 2016. DailyMed
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Beyond drug–drug

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This information is for education, not a substitute for professional medical advice. Do not start, stop, or change any medication without talking to your pharmacist or prescriber.