On the mechanism of the pharmacologic activity of meclofenamate sodium.

N-(2,6-Dichloro-m-tolyl)anthranilic acid, sodium salt (meclofenamate sodium, Meclomen), the sodium salt of meclofenamic acid, has anti-inflammatory activity both in animal models and in clinical use. This activity is believed to be due in large part to the ability of the drug to inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandins by inhibiting arachidonic acid cyclo-oxygenase. Further, there is evidence that meclofenamic acid directly antagonizes the actions of prostaglandins at receptor sites. In addition, meclofenamic acid may also inhibit arachidonic acid lipoxygenase, resulting in decreased synthesis of leukotrienes, known mediators involved in the inflammatory process.