Ponstan 250/500mg (Mefenamic Acid) — Uses, Dosage and Side Effects in Pakistan

What is Ponstan?

Ponstan is Pfizer's brand name for mefenamic acid. It belongs to the NSAID (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug) class and is specifically very effective for period cramps. It is the most commonly used period painkiller among women in Pakistan.

What is Ponstan Used For?

1. Period Cramps (Most Common)

The gold-standard for dysmenorrhea. Start 1–2 days before your period begins for best results.

2. Heavy Periods (Menorrhagia)

Reduces menstrual bleeding by 30–50% by lowering inflammation in the uterine lining.

3. Headache / Migraine

Effective for tension headaches and migraines.

4. Toothache

Especially useful for post-extraction dental pain.

5. Joint and Muscle Pain

Mild arthritis, sports injuries and soft tissue sprains.

6. Fever

Has an antipyretic effect, though Panadol or Brufen are preferred first choices for fever.

7. Inflammation

Soft tissue injuries and sprains.

Dosage

Period Cramps Tip:

Start Ponstan 1–2 days before your period begins and continue for the first 2–3 days. Don't wait for the pain to become severe — preventive use is far more effective.

Side Effects

Common:

• Stomach pain, nausea
• Acidity, heartburn
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Skin rash

Serious (Rare):

• Stomach ulcer and bleeding
• Kidney damage
• Liver problems
• Severe allergic reaction
• Asthma exacerbation
• Stevens-Johnson syndrome

When to Avoid Ponstan

• 3rd trimester of pregnancy — fetal heart complications
• Active stomach ulcer
• Severe kidney disease
• Heart failure
• Aspirin or NSAID allergy
• Severe asthma
• Bleeding disorders
• Children under 14 years

Ponstan vs Brufen for Period Cramps

Drug Interactions

• Warfarin: Increases bleeding risk
• BP medicines (ACE inhibitors): Reduced effectiveness
• Lithium: Risk of toxicity
• Methotrexate: Risk of toxicity
• Other NSAIDs/Aspirin: Avoid combination
• Steroids: Increased stomach ulcer risk

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

• 1st trimester: Avoid
• 2nd trimester: Short-term use only under medical supervision
• 3rd trimester: ABSOLUTELY avoid — risk of fetal heart and kidney complications
• Breastfeeding: Generally safe for short-term use

Tips for Period Pain Management

1. Start Ponstan 1–2 days before your period begins
2. Always take with food
3. Apply a warm compress to your abdomen for 15–20 minutes
4. Take a warm bath
5. Light exercise (walking, yoga)
6. Reduce caffeine intake
7. Magnesium and omega-3 supplements (long-term benefit)
8. If pain is severe, see a gynecologist (check for endometriosis)

Brands and Price in Pakistan

• Ponstan (Pfizer) — original brand
• Mefnac (Sami)
• Postamic (CCL)
• Generic mefenamic acid options

All contain the same drug, but Pfizer's Ponstan brand commands a premium price.

Warning Signs of Endometriosis

If Ponstan or Brufen are not providing relief, watch for:

• Periods lasting 7+ days
• Needing to change a pad every 1–2 hours
• Pain during sex
• Difficulty conceiving
• Bowel or bladder symptoms during periods

These may indicate endometriosis — an ultrasound and evaluation by a gynecologist is necessary.

Conclusion

Ponstan is a specifically formulated NSAID for period cramps that also reduces heavy menstrual bleeding. It is the most prescribed period painkiller for women in Pakistan. Start it before your period begins, take it with food, and don't use it for more than 7 days without a doctor. For severe or unresponsive cramps, consult a gynecologist on Ilaaj AI — from the comfort of home.