Stomach and Intestinal Bleeding
Like other NSAIDs, Ponstan can irritate the stomach and increase the risk of ulcers, bleeding, or other serious gastrointestinal problems.
Taking Ponstan with food or milk may help reduce stomach upset, but it does not completely prevent stomach bleeding.
Seek medical attention if you develop severe stomach pain, black or bloody stools, or vomit that looks like blood or coffee grounds.
Kidney Problems
Ponstan can affect kidney function and may worsen existing kidney disease.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have kidney problems, are dehydrated, or take other medications that may affect the kidneys.
Your healthcare provider may recommend monitoring your kidney function during treatment.
Heart Attack and Stroke Risk
NSAIDs such as Ponstan may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.
The risk may be higher if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, or other cardiovascular risk factors.
Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest amount of time recommended by your healthcare provider.
Allergic Reactions
Do not take Ponstan if you are allergic to mefenamic acid, aspirin, other NSAIDs, or any ingredient in the medication.
Seek immediate medical attention if you develop signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as:
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives
- Severe rash
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Pregnancy
Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant.
NSAIDs such as mefenamic acid should generally be avoided from about 20 weeks of pregnancy onward unless specifically recommended by a healthcare provider.
Use later in pregnancy can cause serious complications for the unborn baby.
Breastfeeding
Talk to your healthcare provider before using Ponstan while breastfeeding.
Your provider can determine whether the medication is appropriate based on your condition and individual circumstances.
Asthma
Ponstan may trigger or worsen breathing problems in some people with asthma, especially those who have previously reacted to aspirin or another NSAID.
Tell your healthcare provider about any history of asthma, nasal polyps, or reactions to NSAIDs before starting treatment.
Bleeding Disorders
Ponstan can affect platelet function and may increase the risk of bleeding.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have a bleeding disorder, such as hemophilia, or if you bruise or bleed easily.
Liver Problems
Ponstan may rarely cause liver problems or worsen existing liver disease.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have a history of liver problems. Contact them if you develop symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe tiredness, or persistent nausea.
Drug Interactions
Ponstan can interact with certain medications, including:
- Blood thinners
- Other NSAIDs
- Some antidepressants
- Certain blood pressure medications
- Diuretics
- Other medications that may affect the kidneys or bleeding risk
Tell your healthcare provider or pharmacist about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements you take before starting Ponstan.
Important Treatment Note
Take Ponstan exactly as prescribed and avoid combining it with other NSAIDs unless your healthcare provider specifically recommends it.
Contact your healthcare provider if you develop severe stomach pain, unusual bleeding, chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, reduced urination, or other concerning symptoms.
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