Indications 

Ponstan is a prescribed medication used to alleviate mild to moderate pain in patients aged 14 years old and above when the treatment duration is limited to one week (7 days). 

This medication can also be used to treat primary dysmenorrhea, which refers to pain occurring prior to or during a menstrual cycle. 

Categorized as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), Ponstan works by inhibiting the body’s production of specific natural substances responsible for inflammation. This action leads to a reduction in swelling, pain, and fever. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Ponstan and with every prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. If you have any uncertainties, consult your physician or pharmacist for clarification. 

Ponstan is usually prescribed at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed, based on the patient’s individual treatment goals. 

Typically, this medication is taken as needed every 6 hours, as prescribed by the doctor, and should not be used for more than one week. 

Ponstan capsule may be taken with or right after a meal, along with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters), unless your doctor advises otherwise. 

For optimal effectiveness, Ponstan should be taken at the onset of pain. Delaying its consumption until the pain intensifies may diminish its efficacy. 

If you are using this medication to alleviate menstrual pain, take the first dose as soon as your period starts or when the pain starts. Typically, it will only be necessary to take the medication for the initial 2 to 3 days of your period. 

Follow the exact instructions for taking Ponstan. Avoid taking more or less of it, and refrain from taking it more frequently than your doctor prescribes. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Ponstan. If any of them persist or worsen, promptly notify your healthcare provider.  

Common Side Effects 

• Upset stomach 
• Nausea 
• Diarrhea 
• Dizziness 
• Drowsiness 
• Blurred vision 

Serious Side Effects 

• Severe or persistent headache 
• Changes in hearing, such as ringing in the ears 
• Mental or mood changes 
• Easy bleeding or bruising 
• Difficulty or pain while swallowing 
• Symptoms of heart failure: 
  • Swollen ankles or feet 
  • Unusual fatigue 
  • Sudden or unusual weight gain 

Inform your doctor promptly if you experience any of the serious side effects listed above. 

Seek immediate medical assistance if you experience any severe side effects, including: 

• Signs of kidney issues: 
  • Changes in urine volume or appearance 
  • Pink or bloody urine 
  • Unexplained stiff neck 
• Indication of a rare but possibly fatal liver disease: 
  • Persistent nausea or vomiting 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Stomach or abdominal pain 
  • Yellowing of the eyes or skin 
  • Dark urine 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Ponstan may occur. Seek prompt medical assistance if any signs of severe allergic reactions are observed, such as: 

• Fever 
• Swollen lymph nodes 
• Rash 
• Face, tongue, or throat itching or swelling 
• Severe dizziness 
• Difficulty breathing 

Not all side effects of Ponstan are included in this list. Notify your doctor immediately if any unlisted effects occur. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Ponstan, inform your doctor of any known allergies, particularly to: 

• Mefenamic acid 
• Aspirin 
• Other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib) 
• Other medications 

Consult your pharmacist for additional information, as Ponstan may include inactive components that could potentially cause allergies or other complications. 

To ensure Ponstan is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Asthma, particularly if there is a history of exacerbated breathing after using aspirin or other NSAIDs 
• Bleeding or clotting issues 
• Blood disorders, like anemia 
• Nasal polyps or growths in the nose 
• Heart disease, such as a previous heart attack 
• High blood fat levels (cholesterol/triglycerides) 
• High blood pressure 
• Liver disease 
• Previous stroke 
• Swelling (edema) or fluid retention 
• Stomach, intestinal, or esophagus problems, like bleeding, heartburn, or ulcers 

Inform all your healthcare providers about any current or newly initiated or discontinued medications, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to reduce the risk of drug interaction with Ponstan. 

Some products that may interact with Ponstan are: 

• Aliskiren 
• ACE inhibitors (e.g., benazepril, lisinopril) 
• Angiotensin II receptor blockers (e.g., losartan, valsartan) 
• Cidofovir  
• Corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone, prednisone) 
• Lithium 
• Methotrexate 
• Diuretics (e.g., furosemide) 

Ponstan may heighten bleeding risk when combined with other drugs that have the potential to cause bleeding. Examples of these drugs include: 

• Anti-platelet medications like clopidogrel  
• Blood thinners such as dabigatran, enoxaparin, and warfarin 

Carefully review the labels of all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, as many of them contain pain relievers or fever reducers like aspirin or NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, ketorolac, naproxen). These drugs are similar to mefenamic acid and taking them together with Ponstan may increase the risk of side effects.  

However, if a low-dose aspirin for preventing heart attack or stroke (usually 81-162 milligrams per day) is prescribed by your doctor, adhere to it strictly. 

Inform lab personnel and your doctors about your use of Ponstan, as it could potentially disrupt specific lab tests, including urine bile tests, leading to inaccurate results. 

The consumption of alcohol and tobacco, particularly in conjunction with Ponstan, can heighten the likelihood of stomach bleeding. To mitigate this risk, restrict alcohol intake and cease smoking. For guidance on the permissible amount of alcohol consumption, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist. 

Ponstan can induce drowsiness, dizziness, fatigue, or impaired vision. If any of these symptoms arise, refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in tasks that demand alertness. 

Ponstan can increase sun sensitivity. Lessen sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and protect your skin by using sunscreen and wearing appropriate clothing when outdoors. In case of sunburn or skin blisters/redness, promptly inform your doctor. 

Inform your doctor about your pregnancy status or if you intend to become pregnant. Ponstan can harm the fetus and lead to delivery complications if taken around 20 weeks or later during pregnancy.  

Avoid taking Ponstan around or after 20 weeks of pregnancy unless specifically advised by your doctor. In case you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately. 

Mefenamic acid can pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while taking this medication.