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Ponstel (mefenamic acid) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to alleviate mild to moderate pain from nearly any cause. It does not have remarkable fever-reducing properties; other NSAIDs are preferred for lowering fever. Ponstel comes in tablets or capsules, both of which are interchangeable at the same dosage strength.

This product is suitable for patients age 14 and up. Effects on younger patients are unclear. Elderly patients or those who have major medical disorders---such as ulcers or stomach bleeding---may require modified dosing.

Ponstel may be prescribed to pregnant women prior to the third trimester (28 weeks and beyond). As a general rule all NSAIDs should be avoided in the third trimester; they can cause serious complications during childbirth. Ponstel may be used short-term while breastfeeding if safer options are unavailable.

Interestingly, it was discovered in 2015 that Ponstel reversed symptoms of Alzheimer's disease in mice, presumably due to reducing brain inflammation. While this is not yet an approved use in humans, studies are ongoing regarding human applications.

Taking Ponstel

Ponstel is suitable at treating most mild to moderate acute pain, including menstrual pain. Largely due to its relatively slow delivery method in tablet form, it may not be suitable for migraine or cluster headaches, though some find it works to at least some degree.

This product is generally not suitable for long-term, chronic pain; use of Ponstel rarely exceeds a week, ideally just a few days. This is due to increased risk of side effects, which grow with length of use as well as high doses. Some individuals, however, do take the medication for longer periods. This is best done with doctor approval and regular checkups to monitor for developing side effects.

Treatment is similar in the vast majority of cases:

• Start with 500 mg once as the initial dose.
• After the initial dose, take 250 mg every 6 hours as needed.
• Treatment should not exceed 1 week without doctor approval.
• Doses should be taken with food or milk to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.

Patients are advised to not take Ponstel more frequently, at higher doses, or for longer than the above without doctor involvement.

If a dose is missed, it can be taken as soon as remembered and the next dose shifted back 6 hours accordingly. Never take a double-dose to compensate for a missed dose.

In the majority of cases Ponstel relieves pain and allows users to function normally, without distraction or distress. Used at recommended doses over the short-term serious side effects are unlikely unless the patient has preexisting conditions.

Interactions, Warnings & Side Effects

Ponstel, like all NSAIDs, can produce serious complications in the cardiovascular or gastrointestinal systems. Patients with a history of either should use this product with caution, particularly if there is a history of:

• Stomach ulcers
• Stomach or intestinal bleeding
• Heart failure
• Recent heart attack
• Blood clots
• Blood vessel problems
• High blood pressure
• Kidney or liver impairment

Patients who have experienced the above---particularly if recently---can probably find better-suited painkillers. Discuss options with a doctor.

Ponstel can cause the following concerning side effects, which warrant medical attention:

• Increased risk of blood clots, stroke, or heart attack
• Stomach or intestinal bleeding
• Liver or kidney problems
• High blood pressure

Ponstel can interact with several other medications as well. Of greatest concern are:

• Other NSAIDs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen
• Blood thinners, such as warfarin
• Steroids, such as prednisone
• Immunosuppressive medications, such as cyclosporine
• Diuretics, such as furosemide
• Antacids
• Lithium

Always check with a doctor or pharmacist before taking other medications with Ponstel---including seemingly innocuous over-the-counter varieties. Note that many over-the-counter cough and cold syrups may contain NSAIDs, which can quickly lead to too much.