Generic name: mefenamic acid [ me-fe-NAM-ik ]
Brand name: Ponstel
Dosage form: oral capsule (250 mg)
Drug class:Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
What is mefenamic acid?
Mefenamic acid is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used short-term (7 days or less) to treat mild to moderate pain in adults and children who are at least 14 years old. Mefenamic acid is also used to treat menstrual pain.
Mefenamic acid may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Mefenamic acid can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke. Do not use mefenamic acid just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG). Mefenamic acid may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal.
Before taking this medicine
Mefenamic acid can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke, even if you don't have any risk factors. Do not use this medicine just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).
Mefenamic acid may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal. These conditions can occur without warning while you are using mefenamic acid, especially in older adults.
You should not use mefenamic acid if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
an active ulcer or stomach bleeding;
a bowel disorder such as ulcerative colitis or inflammatory bowel disease;
kidney disease; or
a history of asthma attack or se...
