Ponstel: Targeted Relief for Menstrual Pain and Inflammation

Ponstel

Ponstel

Price from 35.26 $

Ponstel (mefenamic acid) is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) specifically formulated to provide effective relief from menstrual pain (primary dysmenorrhea) and mild to moderate pain. As a fenamate-class NSAID, it works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that cause inflammation, pain, and fever. Its targeted mechanism offers a specialized approach for those seeking relief from inflammatory pain, particularly associated with menstrual cycles. This medication is intended for short-term use under medical supervision to minimize risks and maximize therapeutic benefits.

Features

  • Active ingredient: Mefenamic acid (250 mg per capsule)
  • Drug class: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), fenamate group
  • Prescription-only medication
  • Available in capsule form for oral administration
  • Onset of action: Typically within 1–2 hours after ingestion
  • Duration of effect: Dosing required every 6 hours as needed for pain
  • Manufactured under strict pharmaceutical quality standards

Benefits

  • Provides targeted relief from menstrual cramps by reducing uterine prostaglandin levels
  • Effectively reduces mild to moderate pain from various inflammatory conditions
  • Demonstrates anti-inflammatory and antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties
  • Offers predictable dosing schedule for consistent pain management
  • May improve daily functioning during menstrual periods when pain would otherwise be disruptive
  • Short-term use profile minimizes long-term systemic exposure when used as directed

Common use

Ponstel is primarily prescribed for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain/cramps). It is also indicated for the relief of mild to moderate pain when the therapy will not exceed one week. Healthcare providers may prescribe it for inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, though this is less common due to the availability of other NSAIDs with more favorable long-term safety profiles. The medication is particularly valuable for women who experience significant discomfort during menstruation that interferes with daily activities.

Dosage and direction

For adults and children over 14 years of age: The usual recommended dose is 500 mg (two 250 mg capsules) as an initial dose, followed by 250 mg every 6 hours as needed. Treatment for menstrual pain should not exceed 2-3 days. For other pain indications, therapy should not exceed one week. Should be taken with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Do not crush or chew capsules; swallow whole with a full glass of water. Dosage adjustments may be necessary for elderly patients or those with renal impairment. Not recommended for children under 14 years of age.

Precautions

Patients should disclose complete medical history to their healthcare provider, especially regarding: history of gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, liver disease, kidney impairment, asthma, bleeding disorders, or fluid retention. Avoid alcohol consumption during treatment as it may increase risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Use with caution in elderly patients who may be more susceptible to NSAID-related adverse effects. Periodic monitoring of renal function, liver enzymes, and complete blood count may be recommended during prolonged therapy. Report any signs of gastrointestinal bleeding (black stools, vomiting blood), skin reactions, or vision changes immediately.

Contraindications

Ponstel is contraindicated in patients with: known hypersensitivity to mefenamic acid, aspirin, or other NSAIDs; history of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs; during the peri-operative period of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery; history of gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation related to previous NSAID therapy; inflammatory bowel disease; severe hepatic impairment; advanced renal disease; third trimester of pregnancy; and in patients with established congestive heart failure (NYHA Class II-IV).

Possible side effect

Common side effects (≥1%): nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dyspepsia, abdominal pain, dizziness, headache, nervousness. Less common side effects: constipation, flatulence, gastritis, peptic ulcer, gastrointestinal bleeding, elevated liver enzymes, rash, pruritus, edema, hypertension, tinnitus, visual disturbances, drowsiness, fatigue. Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention: signs of gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation, hepatotoxicity (nausea, fatigue, jaundice), severe skin reactions, anaphylactic reactions, renal impairment, heart failure, myocardial infarction, or stroke.

Drug interaction

Ponstel may interact with: anticoagulants (increased risk of bleeding), antiplatelet agents, other NSAIDs or salicylates (increased gastrointestinal toxicity), ACE inhibitors/ARBs (reduced antihypertensive effect), diuretics (reduced diuretic effectiveness), lithium (increased lithium levels), methotrexate (increased methotrexate toxicity), cyclosporine (increased nephrotoxicity), SSRIs/SNRIs (increased bleeding risk), corticosteroids (increased GI ulcer risk), and selective COX-2 inhibitors. Always inform your healthcare provider of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Given the as-needed nature of Ponstel dosing for pain management, strict adherence to a schedule is less critical than with chronic medications, but maintaining the every-6-hour interval when taking multiple doses is important for consistent pain control.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include: lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, coma, seizures, hypotension, acute renal failure, and respiratory depression. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic; there is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered if ingestion was recent. Hemodialysis is not effective due to high protein binding.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F) in a dry place protected from light and moisture. Keep in the original container with the lid tightly closed. Do not store in bathroom cabinets where humidity may affect stability. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Properly discard any expired or unused medication according to local guidelines for pharmaceutical waste disposal.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Ponstel is a prescription medication that should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual response to medication may vary. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage, administration, and duration of treatment. Do not self-medicate or share prescription medications with others.

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 specific utility for dysmenorrhea when other NSAIDs provide insufficient relief. Some patients report gastrointestinal side effects as a limitation, particularly with longer use. The medication receives generally positive assessments for its targeted action on menstrual cramps, though providers emphasize the importance of short-term use and appropriate patient selection to minimize risks. Real-world evidence supports its position as a valuable option within the NSAID class for specific indications.