Ponstel is called Ponstan in Europe.
Information about Ponstel (Mefenamic acid)
Ponstel (Mefenamic acid) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, especially mild to moderate pain, and reduce inflammation. It is commonly used for conditions such as menstrual pain and other types of acute pain. Ponstel works by inhibiting enzymes involved in the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that promote inflammation, pain, and fever.
Product Highlights
- Ponstel is mainly used to alleviate mild to moderate pain, including:
- Dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps)
- Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis (off-label use)
- Musculoskeletal Pain (muscle strains or sprains)
- Postoperative Pain (after surgery)
- It helps reduce inflammation associated with pain conditions.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Provides effective relief from mild to moderate pain, especially in conditions like menstrual cramps and musculoskeletal pain.
- Reduces inflammation associated with various pain conditions.
- It can also help reduce fever in certain conditions.
- Typically prescribed for short-term use, making it useful for treating acute pain or flare-ups.
Directions for Use
- The typical starting dose for adults is 500 mg (2 capsules), followed by 250 mg every 6 hours as required. The usual daily dose is 1,000 mg to 1,500 mg, but it should not exceed 2,000 mg per day.
- Ponstel should be taken with food or milk to help minimize the risk of gastrointestinal irritation. It should be taken whole with a full glass of water.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for your next dose. Do not take extra doses to make up for a missed one.
Safety Concerns
- Like other NSAIDs, Ponstel can cause stomach irritation, ulcers, bleeding, or perforation, especially with long-term use. Patients should be closely observed for any signs of gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Mefenamic acid can affect kidney and liver function, particularly in patients with pre-existing conditions. Routine monitoring of kidney and liver function is recommended.
- Long-term use of NSAIDs, including Ponstel, may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events, particularly in those with pre-existing heart disease.
- Some patients may experience allergic reactions, such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Ponstel may increase blood pressure and should be used with caution in patients with hypertension.
- Prolonged use of mefenamic acid may increase the risk of bleeding or affect blood clotting due to its impact on platelets.
Avoid Ponstel (Mefenamic Acid) If
- Avoid Ponstel if you are allergic to mefenamic acid or other NSAIDs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen.
- It should not be used in patients with active ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding due to the risk of exacerbating these conditions.
- Those with severe kidney or liver dysfunction should not use Ponstel due to the risk of further damage.
- Patients with a history of heart disease, stroke, or high blood pressure should avoid using Ponstel, as it can increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events.
- Ponstel should be avoided during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, due to the potential for harm to the fetus.
- It is not recommended to use Ponstel while breastfeeding, as it can pass into breast milk and affect the infant.
