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Menstrual cramps are pains in the belly and pelvic areas that are experienced by a woman as a result of her menstrual period. Menstrual cramps are not the same as the discomfort felt during premenstrual syndrome (PMS), although the symptoms of both disorders can sometimes be experienced as a continual process. Many women suffer from both PMS and menstrual cramps.
Menstrual cramps can range from mild to quite severe. Mild menstrual cramps may be barely noticeable and of short duration sometimes felt just as a sense of light heaviness in the belly. Severe menstrual cramps can be so painful that they interfere with a woman's regular activities for several days.
Menstrual cramps of some degree affect more than an estimated 50% of women, and among these, up to 15% would describe their menstrual cramps as severe. Surveys of adolescent girls show that over 90% of girls repor...
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Medical Editor: John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP
Ponstel (mefenamic acid) is used to treat pain or inflammation caused by arthritis. It is also used to treat menstrual pain. It is in a group of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This medication is available in generic form. Common side effects include upset stomach, nausea, heartburn, dizziness, drowsiness, diarrhea, and headache.
The dose and frequency of Ponstel is adjusted to an individual patient's needs. For the relief of acute pain in adults and adolescents 14 years of age or older, the recommended dose is 500 mg as an initial dose followed by 250 mg every 6 hours as needed, usually not to exceed one week. For the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea, the recommended dose is 500 mg as an initial dose followed by 250 mg every 6 hours, given orally, starting with the onset of bleeding and associated symptoms. Ponstel may interact with antidepressants, blood thinners, diuretics (water pills), cyclosporine, lithium, methotrexate, steroids, or aspirin or NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Tell your doctor all medications you are taking. During the first 6 months of pregnancy, Ponstel should be used only when prescribed. It is not recommended for use during the last 3 months of pregnancy due to possible harm to the fetus and interference with normal labor/delivery. This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Our Ponstel (mefenamic acid) Drug Center provides a comprehensive view of available drug information as well as related drugs, user reviews, supplements, and diseases and conditions articles.
What is Prescribing information?
The FDA package insert formatted in easy-to-find categories for health professionals and clinicians.
Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of PONSTEL (mefenamic acid) and other treatment options before deciding to use PONSTEL (mefenamic acid) . Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals (see WARNINGS).
PONSTEL (mefenamic acid) is indicated:
Read the complete drug monograph for Ponstel »
Drug Description - Indications & Dosage - Side Effects & Drug Interactions - Warnings & Precautions - Contraindications - Medication Guide and More
What is Patient information?
Easy-to-read and understand detailed drug information and pill images for the patient or caregiver from Cerner Multum.
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop taking mefenamic acid and seek medical attention or call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
Read the complete patient information for Ponstel »
Possible Side Effects - Images - What Is - How Should I Take It - What If I Miss a Dose - What Should I Avoid and More
What is Consumer information?
A concise overview of the drug for the patient or caregiver from First DataBank.
Mefenamic acid is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using mefenamic acid and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth, usually 4 times a day with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 millil...
Read the complete consumer information for Ponstel »
Warnings - Uses - How to Use - Side Effects - Precautions - Drug Interactions and More
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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