Ponstan (Mefenamic Acid)

Do’s

• Take Ponstan exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Take it with a full glass of water (8 ounces) unless your healthcare provider says otherwise.
• Sit upright for at least 10 minutes after taking Ponstan.
• Take it with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
• Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider, especially if taking it for a long time.
• Take the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.
• If taking it "as needed," take it at the first signs of pain for best results.
• If for painful periods, take the first dose when your period starts or pain begins.

Don'ts

• Don't take more Ponstan than prescribed or take it for longer than 7 days.
• Don't take Ponstan with antacids unless your healthcare provider tells you to.
• Don't lie down right after taking Ponstan.
• Don't wait until the pain worsens before taking Ponstan (if using "as needed").

Common side effects:

• Stomach upset
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Vomiting
• Light-headedness

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Severe allergic reaction
• Vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• Bleeding or bruising more easily than usual
• Bleeding from the back passage
• Stiff neck
• Heart problems: Mefenamic acid, like other NSAIDs, may increase the risk of serious heart problems such as heart attack, stroke, or blood clots. If you are at risk for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or pre-existing heart disease.
• Fluid retention and swelling, especially if you have congestive heart failure
• Severe gastrointestinal effects, such as black stools or vomit that looks like coffee grounds, which may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding
• Increased risk of serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke, especially with prolonged use

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Ponstan,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have allergies to Ponstan, aspirin, other NSAIDs, or any ingredients in Ponstan.

Inform your healthcare provider about your medical history, especially asthma, bleeding problems, growths in the nose, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, stroke, swelling, or stomach/intestinal problems.

Kidney problems can happen with Ponstan use. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and tell your healthcare provider about any changes in urine color or amount.

Ponstan may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Avoid driving or activities requiring alertness until you feel safe. Limit alcohol and marijuana use.

Ponstan may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Limit alcohol and tobacco use.

Ponstan may make you more sensitive to the sun. Limit sun exposure and use sunscreen and protective clothing.

Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take before surgery.

Older adults have a higher risk of side effects from Ponstan.

Discuss the risks and benefits of Ponstan with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Ponstan may harm an unborn baby and cause problems with labor/delivery. It is not recommended after 20 weeks of pregnancy.

Ponstan passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.