PONSTEL (MEFENAMIC ACID)

Ponstel Description

Ponstel or Mefenamic Acid generic is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, better known as an NSAID, that your doctor may prescribe for treating the painful menstrual cramps that some women experience every month, for the symptoms of arthritis, or for strains, sprains, and other injuries that cause inflammation and tenderness. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Ponstel Works as a Selective COX Inhibitor to Reduce Risk of Ulcers

As a selective COX inhibitor, Ponstel only blocks the cyclooxygenase (COX-2) enzyme. This is important because this reduces the risk of stomach problems by leaving the COX-1 enzyme to protect your stomach lining against ulcers or lesions.

When taken as directed, Ponstel reduces the action of the COX-2 enzyme to decrease production of inflammatory substances, including prostaglandins. This is a type of hormone that your immune system depends upon for the healing process which causes inflammation. This results in allowing your body some pain relief and calms the redness and swelling.

Conditions Treated by Ponstel

Ponstel or generic Mefenamic acid is used to relieve pain and inflammation in a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, muscular pain and traumatic pain such as sprains and fractures. It can also be used to relieve other types of pain, such as toothache, headaches and gout.

Arthritis is a form of joint disorder that causes inflammation of one or more joints. There are many forms of arthritis; the most common is called osteoarthritis. The biggest complaint by those that have arthritis is joint pain that is constant and localized and is caused by inflammation.

Ponstel is also useful for heavy and painful menstrual periods, in addition to its general painkilling properties. This is because period pain cramps are caused by the production of prostaglandins by the lining of the womb and prostaglandin production is known to be increased in women who suffer from heavy periods. By opposing the production and action of prostaglandins, Ponstel relieves period pains and also reduces blood loss in women who have heavy periods.

Before Ponstel is Prescribed

Be sure to inform your doctor of other maladies you have and any OTC or Rx medicine you are currently using or taking, including herbal remedies and vitamin supplements. The majority of medications have some side effects and Mefenamic Acid generic or brand is no different so ask your doctor about what you may encounter when taking this NSAID.

Ponstel Risks and Recommendations

You should provide your doctor with a complete medical history before taking Ponstel to see if you might be at greater risk of developing problems with your stomach. Ponstel may increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long term, take high doses, or if you have heart disease. If you are scheduled for any surgical procedures, inform medical staff that you take Ponstel as you may need to temporarily stop taking it.

Possible Side Effects of Ponstel

• Upset stomach
• Headaches
• Heartburn
• Dizziness