Ponstel

Generic name: Mefenamic acid

What is Ponstel?

Ponstel, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Ponstel is used for the relief of moderate pain (when treatment will not last for more than 7 days) and for the treatment of menstrual pain, also known as dysmenorrhea.

What is the most important information I should know about Ponstel?

You should have frequent checkups with your doctor if you take Ponstel regularly. Ulcers or internal bleeding can occur without warning.

This medicine can increase your risk of life-threatening heart or circulation problems, including heart attack or stroke. Seek emergency medical help if you have symptoms of heart or circulation problems, such as chest pain, weakness, shortness of breath, slurred speech, or problems with vision or balance.

Ponstel occasionally causes liver damage. If you develop warning signs such as nausea, fatigue, yellowing of the skin and eyes, itching, flu-like symptoms, and upper abdominal pain, stop taking Ponstel and seek medical attention immediately.

Who should not take Ponstel?

Do not take Ponstel if you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to it. You should not take it, either, if you have had asthma attacks, hay fever, or hives caused by aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including ibuprofen. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

Do not use this medicine just before or after having heart bypass surgery (also called coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

Do not take Ponstel if you have ulcerations or frequently recurring inflammation of your stomach or intestines.

Avoid Ponstel if you have serious kidney disease.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Ponstel?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Ponstel. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of heart attack, stroke, blood clot, heart disease, congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, asthma, polyps in your nose, or if you smoke. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Menstrual Pain

Adults and and adolescents 14 years and older: The usual starting dose, once symptoms appear, is 500 milligrams (mg), followed by 250 mg every 6 hours for 2 to 3 days.

Moderate Pain

Adults and adolescents 14 years and older: The usual starting dose is 500 mg, followed by 250 mg every 6 hours, if needed, for 1 week.

The safety and effectiveness of Ponstel have not been established in children and adolescents under 14 years of age.

How should I take Ponstel?

Take Ponstel exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Take Ponstel with food if possible. If it upsets your stomach, be sure to take it with food or with a full glass of milk.

What should I avoid while taking Ponstel?

Do not use any other over-the-counter cold, allergy, or pain medication without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. Many medicines available over the counter contain medicines similar to Ponstel (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, or naproxen). Do not drink alcohol while taking Ponstel. Alcohol can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Ponstel?

If Ponstel is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Ponstel with the following: ACE inhibitors that are used to treat high blood pressure such as captopril and enalapril; alcohol; antacids; aspirin; blood-thinning medications such as warfarin; diuretics such as furosemide and hydrochlorothiazide; fluconazole; lithium; lovastatin; methotrexate; steroids such as prednisone and hydrocortisone; and trimethoprim.

What are the possible side effects of Ponstel?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: bloating, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, edema (swelling of any organ), gas, headache, mild heartburn or stomach pain, nervousness, ringing in your ears, skin itching or rash, upset stomach, vomiting

Can I receive Ponstel if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Ponstel during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. You should not use Ponstel in late pregnancy because nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs affect the heart and blood vessels of the developing baby. Ponstel may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Ponstel is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Ponstel?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How should I store Ponstel?

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.