Ponstan belongs to the class of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs). It is used for the relief of short-term moderate pain lasting less than one week, such as muscular aches and pains, menstrual cramps, headaches, and dental pain.
How to use this product
Ponstan is best taken with or after food. The recommended adult dose (for people more than 14 years old) is 500 mg for the first dose followed by 250 mg every six hours as needed, usually not to exceed one week of treatment. In the case of menstrual cramps, treatment is usually not necessary for longer than two or three days.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones given here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is very important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.
Side effects
The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your health professional. They may be able to help you to deal with some of the effects.
The following side effects may go away as your body becomes used to the medicine; check with your doctor if the following side effects continue or become bothersome. A common side effect of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is stomach upset. This can be minimized by taking the medication immediately after a meal, or with food or milk.
Common:
abdominal or stomach cramps, pain, or discomfort (mild to moderate)
diarrhea
dizziness, drowsiness, or lightheadedness
headache (mild to moderate)
heartburn, indigestion, nausea, or vomiting
Precautions
This medication should not be taken by anyone who:
- has or recently had an inflammatory disease of the stomach and intestines such as stomach or intestinal ulcer or ulcerative colitis
- is taking other NSAIDs
- is or may be allergic to mefenamic acid or any of the ingredients of the medication
- has had an allergic reaction to ASA or other anti-inflammatory medications
- has a history of significant kidney disease
Drug Interactions
The following medications may affect the way that Ponstan works or increase the risk of side effects:
ASA, alcohol, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (e.g., ramipril),
beta-adrenergic blockers (e.g., metoprolol, atenolol), corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone),
diuretics (water pills; e.g., spironolactone, triamterene), heparin, other NSAIDs (e.g., naproxen, diclofenac), potassium supplements, probenecid, warfarin, Mefenamic acid, cyclosporine, digoxin, diuretics (water pills, e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide),
heparin, lithium, methotrexate, oral hypoglycemics (anti-diabetes medications, e.g., glyburide), phenytoin, warfarin
