Ponstel is a brand name for mefenamic acid, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used mainly to treat mild to moderate pain, especially menstrual cramps. It’s not a narcotic, not a muscle relaxant, and not a hormone - it works by blocking the body’s pain signals at the source. If you’ve ever had cramps so bad you couldn’t get out of bed, or felt like your insides were being squeezed, you know how much relief this can bring. But Ponstel isn’t just for periods. It’s also used for headaches, dental pain, muscle aches, and even post-surgery discomfort - as long as it’s prescribed or recommended correctly.
How Ponstel Actually Works
Ponstel doesn’t just cover up pain like some other pills. It goes straight to the cause. When your body gets injured or inflamed - say, during menstruation - it releases chemicals called prostaglandins. These chemicals make your uterus contract, cause swelling, and send pain signals to your brain. Mefenamic acid, the active ingredient in Ponstel, blocks the enzyme that makes prostaglandins. Less prostaglandin = less cramping, less swelling, less pain.
This is why Ponstel works better for period pain than paracetamol. Paracetamol helps with fever and general aches, but it doesn’t touch inflammation. Ponstel does. That’s why many women report feeling noticeably better within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it - and why some doctors recommend starting it a day before your period is due, not just when the pain hits.
Who Should Take Ponstel
Ponstel is most commonly prescribed for women with severe dysmenorrhea - that’s the medical term for painful periods. If your cramps make you miss work, school, or social plans, and over-the-counter painkillers don’t cut it, Ponstel might be the next step.
It’s also used off-label for:
- Headaches, including migraines
- Toothaches and dental pain
- Joint and muscle pain from arthritis or injury
- Postoperative pain after minor surgeries
But it’s not for everyone. If you’ve ever had a stomach ulcer, kidney problems, or an allergic reaction to aspirin or ibuprofen, Ponstel could be dangerous. People with heart disease, high blood pressure, or who are over 65 should use it with caution - and only under medical supervision.
Dosing and How to Take It Right
The standard dose for menstrual pain is 500 mg at the first sign of cramps, followed by 250 mg every 6 hours as needed. Most people take it for no more than 2 to 3 days. You shouldn’t take it for more than 7 days unless your doctor says so.
Here’s how to take it safely:
- Always take it with food or milk - this cuts down on stomach upset, which is the most common side effect.
- Don’t lie down for at least 10 minutes after swallowing the pill.
- Use the lowest dose that works. More isn’t better, and it increases your risk of side effects.
- Don’t mix it with other NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen. That raises your chance of bleeding or stomach damage.
Some people think taking it on an empty stomach makes it work faster. That’s a myth. It might feel faster, but you’re risking nausea, heartburn, or worse. Stick to the food rule.
Side Effects - What to Watch For
Most people tolerate Ponstel fine. But side effects happen. The most common ones are:
- Upset stomach or nausea
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Headache
- Mild rash
These usually go away after a few days. But if you notice any of these, stop taking it and call your doctor:
- Bloody or black stools
- Vomiting that looks like coffee grounds
- Swelling in your hands, feet, or ankles
- Sudden weight gain
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
These are signs of serious problems - stomach bleeding, liver damage, or heart issues. They’re rare, but they happen. Don’t ignore them.
Ponstel vs Other Painkillers
Many people compare Ponstel to ibuprofen, naproxen, or paracetamol. Here’s how they stack up:
| Medication | Works on Inflammation? | Onset of Action | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ponstel (mefenamic acid) | Yes | 30-60 minutes | 4-6 hours | Severe menstrual cramps, inflammation-driven pain |
| Ibuprofen | Yes | 20-30 minutes | 4-6 hours | Mild to moderate pain, fever |
| Naproxen | Yes | 30-60 minutes | 8-12 hours | Longer-lasting relief, arthritis |
| Paracetamol (acetaminophen) | No | 30-45 minutes | 4-6 hours | Fever, general aches, sensitive stomach |
Ponstel isn’t the fastest, but it’s one of the few NSAIDs specifically studied and approved for menstrual pain. Studies show it reduces cramp severity by 50-70% in most users - better than paracetamol, and comparable to naproxen. The difference? Ponstel has a more targeted effect on uterine prostaglandins, which is why it’s often the go-to for women who’ve tried everything else.
What You Can’t Do With Ponstel
It’s important to know what Ponstel won’t do:
- It won’t stop your period. It only reduces the pain.
- It won’t help with hormonal imbalances or PCOS-related pain unless inflammation is part of the issue.
- It won’t cure endometriosis - though it can help manage the symptoms.
- It’s not safe during pregnancy, especially after 30 weeks. It can affect fetal circulation.
- It’s not meant for daily long-term use. It’s for short bursts of pain relief.
If your cramps are getting worse over time, or you’re needing Ponstel more than 3 days a month, you should see a doctor. There might be an underlying condition like endometriosis or fibroids that needs different treatment.
Alternatives to Ponstel
If Ponstel doesn’t work for you, or you can’t take it due to side effects, here are other options:
- Hormonal birth control - Pills, patches, or IUDs that lower prostaglandin production.
- Naproxen - Longer-lasting, good for people who need relief for 8+ hours.
- Heat therapy - A heating pad on your lower belly reduces cramps as effectively as some pills.
- Magnesium supplements - Some studies show they reduce period pain by relaxing uterine muscles.
- Acupuncture or physical therapy - Especially helpful if pain is tied to pelvic floor tension.
Many women find that combining Ponstel with heat and rest gives the best results. No single solution works for everyone - but having options means you can build a plan that fits your body.
Where to Get Ponstel
In Australia, Ponstel is a prescription-only medication. You can’t buy it over the counter like ibuprofen. That’s by design - because of the risks, doctors need to assess your health history first. You’ll need to visit a GP or gynecologist to get a script.
Once you have it, you can pick it up at any pharmacy. Prices vary, but a 30-tablet pack usually costs between $25 and $40 without a subsidy. If you have a Medicare card and a Concession Card, you’ll pay much less - around $7 per script under the PBS (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme).
There are generic versions of mefenamic acid available, too. They’re just as effective and often cheaper. Ask your pharmacist if the generic is right for you.
Final Thoughts
Ponstel isn’t a miracle drug. But for women who suffer from debilitating menstrual pain, it’s one of the most reliable tools they’ve got. It’s not about taking it every day. It’s about having it ready when you need it - like keeping a spare key or a first aid kit. Knowing you can take it, safely and effectively, takes away a lot of fear.
But remember: pain is a signal. If your cramps are getting worse, or you’re relying on Ponstel more than you should, don’t just keep refilling the prescription. Talk to your doctor. There might be something deeper going on - and you deserve to find out what it is.
Is Ponstel the same as ibuprofen?
No. Ponstel contains mefenamic acid, while ibuprofen is a different NSAID. Both reduce inflammation and pain, but Ponstel is more specifically studied for menstrual cramps. Ibuprofen works faster and is available over the counter, but Ponstel may be more effective for severe period pain.
Can I take Ponstel with birth control pills?
Yes, you can. Many women take Ponstel alongside hormonal birth control to manage breakthrough cramps. Birth control lowers prostaglandin levels over time, while Ponstel blocks them right when they spike. They work well together - but always tell your doctor you’re using both.
Does Ponstel cause weight gain?
Not directly. But some people retain fluid while taking NSAIDs, which can cause temporary bloating or a slight increase on the scale. This isn’t fat gain - it’s water retention. It usually goes away when you stop taking the medication.
How long does Ponstel stay in your system?
Mefenamic acid has a half-life of about 2 to 3 hours, meaning half of it leaves your body in that time. Most of it is gone within 12 hours. But its pain-relieving effects last 4 to 6 hours, which is why you need to take it every 6 hours during flare-ups.
Can men take Ponstel?
Yes. While it’s most commonly used for menstrual pain, men can take Ponstel for other types of inflammation-related pain - like muscle strains, dental pain, or arthritis. It’s not gender-specific - it’s about the type of pain, not who has it.
Is Ponstel safe for long-term use?
No. Long-term use of any NSAID, including Ponstel, increases the risk of stomach ulcers, kidney damage, and heart problems. It’s meant for short-term, as-needed relief - usually no more than 7 days. If you need pain relief for longer, see your doctor to find the root cause.
If you’re considering Ponstel, start with a conversation with your doctor. Bring a list of your symptoms, how often they happen, and what’s already tried. That’s the best way to make sure you’re using the right tool for your body.