Ponstan Side Effects

Ponstan is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to relieve pain, inflammation, and discomfort caused by various conditions, such as menstrual cramps, headaches, and arthritis. Like all medications, it can have side effects. Here are some common and less common side effects of Ponstan:

Common Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal Issues: NSAIDs, including Ponstan, are associated with a higher risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Common GI side effects include stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
• Headache: Some people may experience headaches while taking Ponstan.
• Dizziness: Dizziness is a possible side effect and can occur, especially when you first start taking the medication.
• Rash: Skin rashes may occur, although they are usually mild.
• Increased Blood Pressure: Ponstan can occasionally lead to a temporary increase in blood pressure. It is advisable to monitor blood pressure regularly while taking this medication.
• Fluid Retention: Some individuals may experience mild fluid retention or swelling, particularly in the legs or ankles.

Less Common Side Effects:

• Gastrointestinal Ulcers and Bleeding: While less common, NSAIDs like Ponstan can cause more serious gastrointestinal issues, such as ulcers, bleeding, or perforations. This can be especially concerning in people with a history of ulcers or gastrointestinal problems.
• Kidney Effects: Ponstan can affect kidney function, causing decreased urine output and potentially leading to kidney problems, especially in people with pre-existing kidney issues.
• Liver Abnormalities: Rarely, Ponstan can lead to abnormal liver function tests or liver damage.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: In rare cases, individuals can experience severe allergic reactions to Ponstan, with symptoms like rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing.
• Blood Disorders: Ponstan can affect blood cell production, potentially leading to conditions like anemia, thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), or leukopenia (low white blood cell count).
• Central Nervous System Effects: Rarely, Ponstan may lead to central nervous system effects such as confusion, hallucinations, or mood changes.
• Aseptic Meningitis: Very rarely, Ponstan has been associated with aseptic meningitis, an inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
• Cardiovascular Effects: NSAIDs, including Ponstan, may slightly increase the risk of heart-related events, such as heart attacks or strokes.

Ponstan is one of the leading brands of Mefenamic Acid, manufactured and marketed by Pfizer Laboratories Inc.

Presently, Ponstan is available in tablet and suspension forms

Ponstan Tablet : 250mg strength.

Ponstan Forte Tablet : 500mg strength.

Ponstan Suspension : 50mg/5ml strength.

1. Other NSAIDs: Concurrent use of multiple NSAIDs, including Ponstan, can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects and other adverse reactions. It’s generally advisable to avoid using multiple NSAIDs simultaneously.
2. Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin): Ponstan can increase the risk of bleeding, especially when used with anticoagulants like warfarin. If you are taking both medications, your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dosage of the anticoagulant and monitor your blood clotting parameters closely.
3. Antiplatelet Drugs (e.g., Aspirin): Combining Ponstan with antiplatelet drugs can also increase the risk of bleeding. This combination should be used with caution and under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
4. Corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone): Concurrent use of corticosteroids with Ponstan can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your treatment plan and monitor for side effects.
5. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): Combining Ponstan with SSRIs, which are commonly used as antidepressants, can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. This combination should be used with caution and monitored closely.
6. Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors: Ponstan can reduce the effectiveness of ACE inhibitors, which are used to treat conditions like high blood pressure and heart failure. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dose of your ACE inhibitor.
7. Lithium: Ponstan can increase lithium levels in the blood, potentially leading to lithium toxicity. If you are taking lithium, your healthcare provider will monitor your lithium levels and adjust your dose as needed.
8. Methotrexate: Ponstan can increase the risk of methotrexate toxicity. If you are taking methotrexate for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, your healthcare provider will need to closely monitor your blood levels of methotrexate and adjust your dose as necessary.
9. Cyclosporine: Ponstan may increase the blood levels of cyclosporine, which is an immunosuppressant. This interaction can be harmful, so it’s important to monitor cyclosporine levels closely.
10. Diuretics (Water Pills): Ponstan can reduce the effectiveness of diuretics and may lead to an increased risk of kidney problems. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dose of diuretics.