Brand name: Meftal
Pronounced: PON-stel
Generic name: Mefenamic acid MEFTAL (Mefenamic Acid, Ponstel)
Why is Meftal prescribed?

Meftal, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is used for the relief of moderate pain (when treatment will not last for more than 7 days) and for the treatment of menstrual pain.
Most important fact about Meftal

You should have frequent checkups with your doctor if you take Meftal regularly. Ulcers or internal bleeding can occur without warning.
How should you take Meftal?

Take Meftal with food if possible. If it upsets your stomach, be sure to take it with food or an antacid or with a full glass of milk.

Take Meftal exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

If you miss a dose MEFTAL (Mefenamic Acid, Ponstel)

If you take Meftal on a regular schedule, take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Why should Meftal not be prescribed?

Do not take Meftal if you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to it. You should not take it, either, if you have had asthma attacks, hay fever, or hives caused by aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Motrin and Nuprin. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

Do not take Meftal if you have ulcerations or frequently recurring inflammation of your stomach or intestines.

Avoid Meftal if you have serious kidney disease.
Special warnings about Meftal

Use Meftal with extreme caution if you've suffered from stomach ulcers or bleeding in the past. If you develop a rash, diarrhea, or other stomach problems, contact your doctor.

If you are an older adult; have kidney problems, liver disease, or heart failure; take drugs such as diuretics or ACE inhibitors; or suffer from dehydration, Meftal could damage your kidneys and should be used with caution.

Meftal occasionally causes liver damage. If you develop warning signs such as nausea, fatigue, yellowing of the skin and eyes, itching, flu-like symptoms, and upper abdominal pain, stop taking Meftal and seek medical attention immediately.

Meftal can also aggravate high blood pressure, asthma, and heart failure. Use it with caution if you have any of these conditions. Use it cautiously, too, if you smoke or are in poor health.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Meftal

If Meftal is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either can be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Meftal with the following:

ACE inhibitors (drugs for high blood pressure) such as Capoten and Vasotec
Alcohol
Aspirin
Blood-thinning medications such as Coumadin
Diuretics such as Lasix and HydroDIURIL
Fluconazole (DiFlucan)
Lithium (Lithonate)
Lovastatin (Mevacor)
Methotrexate (Rheumatrex)
Steroids such as prednisone and hydrocortisone
Trimethoprim (Proloprim, Bactrim, Septra)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Meftal during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. You should not use Meftal in late pregnancy because nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs affect the heart and blood vessels of the developing baby. Meftal may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Meftal is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.
Recommended dosage for Meftal

ADULTS AND CHILDREN OVER 14
Overdosage

If you suspect an overdose of Meftal, seek medical attention immediately.

* Symptoms of Meftal overdose may include:
Drowsiness, lack of energy, nausea, stomach or abdominal pain, vomiting

In severe cases, breathing problems and coma can develop.

Storage instructions MEFTAL (Mefenamic Acid, Ponstel)

Store away from heat, light, and moisture.
Meftal side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Meftal.

* Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, stomach and intestinal upset, vomiting