Ponstel, with its active ingredient mefenamic acid, is a trusted nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) prescribed for the short-term relief of moderate pain, particularly menstrual discomfort. It works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body, offering a focused approach to symptom management. This medication is intended for use under the guidance of a healthcare professional to ensure safety and efficacy for the individual patient.

Features

• Active ingredient: Mefenamic acid
• Drug class: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
• Available in 250 mg capsule form
• Prescription-only medication
• Short-term treatment course
• Inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes

Benefits

• Provides effective relief from moderate pain, specifically menstrual cramps (primary dysmenorrhea)
• Reduces inflammation at the source of discomfort
• Helps decrease heavy menstrual bleeding associated with pain
• Allows for improved daily functioning during menstrual periods
• Works relatively quickly, with pain relief often beginning within a few hours
• Targeted action with a specific indication for menstrual pain

Common use

Ponstel is primarily prescribed for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea—painful menstrual periods caused by uterine contractions rather than an underlying medical condition. Healthcare providers may also recommend it for short-term relief of mild to moderate pain from other causes, such as musculoskeletal discomfort or postoperative pain, though its primary and most established use remains menstrual pain management.

Dosage and direction

The typical adult dosage for menstrual pain is 500 mg (two 250 mg capsules) as an initial dose, followed by 250 mg every 6 hours as needed, usually for 2-3 days starting at the onset of menstruation. Ponstel should be taken with food or milk to minimize stomach upset. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage or duration of treatment. The medication is intended for short-term use (generally not exceeding one week per menstrual cycle) unless specifically directed otherwise by a healthcare provider.

Precautions

Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any history of stomach ulcers, bleeding problems, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, asthma, or nasal polyps. Ponstel may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may increase with duration of use and in patients with cardiovascular disease or risk factors for cardiovascular disease. NSAIDs cause an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms.

Contraindications

Ponstel is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to mefenamic acid, aspirin, or other NSAIDs. It should not be used in patients who have experienced asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Severe, sometimes fatal, anaphylactic reactions to NSAIDs have been reported in such patients. Ponstel is contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. It should not be used during the third trimester of pregnancy due to risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus.

Possible side effects

Common side effects may include stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, or nervousness. More serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include: signs of stomach bleeding (black/tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds), symptoms of heart problems (chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side of the body), liver problems (nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tiredness, flu-like symptoms, dark urine, jaundice), kidney problems (little or no urination, swelling in feet or ankles), or severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, swelling in face or tongue, burning eyes, skin pain followed by red or purple skin rash).

Drug interaction

Ponstel may interact with several medications including: other NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen), anticoagulants (warfarin), SSRIs and SNRIs, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, diuretics, lithium, methotrexate, and cyclosporine. It may also interact with certain antidepressants and other medications that affect bleeding risk. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose of Ponstel, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Given that Ponstel is typically taken as needed for pain, the “missed dose” concept applies primarily to scheduled dosing regimens as directed by your healthcare provider.

Overdose

In case of overdose, symptoms may include severe stomach pain, vomiting (possibly bloody), drowsiness, nausea, dizziness, seizures, slow or shallow breathing, or loss of consciousness. Seek immediate medical attention or contact a Poison Control Center. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by medical personnel. Treatment is supportive and may include gastric lavage, activated charcoal, and monitoring of vital signs with appropriate symptomatic treatment.

Storage

Store Ponstel at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed through a medicine take-back program or according to FDA guidelines.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication regimen. The information provided here may not cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have any questions about Ponstel, please talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider.

Reviews

Clinical studies have demonstrated Ponstel’s effectiveness in managing menstrual pain, with many patients reporting significant improvement in symptoms. Healthcare providers often note its targeted action for dysmenorrhea while emphasizing the importance of short-term use and monitoring for potential side effects. Patient experiences vary, with many reporting effective pain relief when used as directed, while some note gastrointestinal side effects. The medication receives particular praise for its specific indication and effectiveness for menstrual discomfort when other pain relievers may be less effective.