Ponstel (Mefenamic acid) is a prescription medication used to treat mild to moderate pain from various conditions in patients older than 14 years. The drug also treats primary dysmenorrhea. Dysmenorrhea is the cramping pain that occurs before or during a menstrual period. The Prostaglandins made in the lining of the uterus causes the blood vessels and muscles in the uterus to contract, causing pain. The active ingredient in Ponstel is Mefenamic acid. Mefenamic acid belongs to a class of drugs called Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It works by blocking the inflammation process in the body to relieve pain and swelling.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Ponstel also called Ponstan from the United Kingdom in the strength of 250mg capsule. The generic Mefenamic acid is available from Canada in the strength of 250mg capsule.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while taking Ponstel. The most common side effects of Ponstel may include the following:
• Diarrhea;
• Dizziness;
• Drowsiness;
• Headache;
• Heartburn;
• Nausea;
• Upset stomach
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, including:
• Fainting;
• Fast/pounding heartbeat;
• Mood changes;
• Persistent headache;
• Ringing in ears;
• Stomach pain;
• Sudden weight gain;
• Swallowing difficulties;
• Unusual tiredness;
• Vision changes
These are not all of the side effects of Mefenamic acid. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not take Ponstel if you are allergic to Mefenamic acid, any ingredient in Ponstel, or other NSAIDs. Before you start taking this medication, tell your doctors about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant;
• Have a history of asthma;
• Have active bleeding or stomach sores;
• Have allergies;
• Have blood disorders, including anemia;
• Have diabetes;
• Have had a recent heart bypass surgery (CABG);
• Have high blood pressure;
• Have liver disease;
• Have severe kidney disease;
• Have swelling in hands, feet, or ankles
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Ponstel and other medicines, including corticosteroids like prednisone, fluconazole and diuretics like furosemide, valsartan, captopril, and warfarin. Ponstel should only be used in patients older than 14 years. Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using Mefenamic acid. This drug may harm the unborn baby and cause problems during labor. Ponstel is not recommended for use in the third trimester of pregnancy. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding. Ponstel passes into breastmilk and may harm the nursing infant. Limit your sun exposure and use sunscreen when outdoors. Mefenamic acid may increase your sensitivity to the sun. Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol when using this drug. Alcohol and tobacco, in combination with Ponstel, increase your risk of stomach bleeding. Use Ponstel precisely as prescribed by your doctor. The drug is not meant for extended use. Keep Ponstel away from the reach and sight of children. Store between 20 - 250C (68-770F). Excursions are permitted up to 15-300C (59-860F).
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