PONSTAN FORTE

Ponstan forte tablets 500mg Why do I need this medicine? Mefenamic Acid helps relieve pain and inflammation.

How do I take this medicine? Take Mefenamic Acid exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more than instructed by your doctor.

Always take Mefenamic Acid together with food or immediately after a meal. Do not take it on an empty stomach.

Your doctor may also prescribe some antacid tablets to be taken with Mefenamic Acid. If you have been given antacids, chew the antacid tablet before swallowing and take it at the same time as Mefenamic Acid. What should I do if I have forgotten to take this medicine? Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know. Can I take this with other medicines? Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of the following medicines:

- blood-thinning medicines such as aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel, dipyridamole, heparin
- steroids such as dexamethasone, prednisolone
- heart or blood pressure medicines such as furosemide (frusemide) and related medicines
- other medicines such as ciclosporin, methotrexate, lithium

Always inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription. How should I store this medicine? Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.

When should I not use this medicine? Do not take Mefenamic Acid if you:

- are pregnant or breastfeeding
- have a history of allergic reactions (swollen eyes or mouth, difficulty breathing, rashes) to similar painkillers such as aspirin, indomethacin, ibuprofen, meloxicam, naproxen or piroxicam.
- have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding from the stomach
- have inflammation of the bowels (intestines)
- have asthma
- have problems with blood clotting

Alert your doctor if you have any of these conditions. What should I take note of while taking this medicine? Mefenamic Acid may not be suitable for you if you have kidney, liver or heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure or if you have ever had a heart attack or a stroke. Alert your doctor if you have any of these conditions.

If you are going for an operation, including minor operations and dental work, inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking Mefenamic Acid. Are there any restrictions on the type of food I can take? Avoid alcohol.

MEFENAMIC ACID

Mefenamic Acid is likely to cause stomach discomfort such as nausea and stomach pain. Be sure to take it with food and the antacids, if prescribed.

If you develop swelling of the eyes or mouth, rashes or have difficulty breathing, you may be allergic to Mefenamic Acid. Stop the medicine and see the doctor quickly if this happens.

Alert your doctor if any of the following symptoms are severe or refuse to go away:

- stomach pain
- diarrhoea
- unusual tiredness
- dizziness
- ringing or buzzing sound in the ears

Some side effects can be serious and need immediate attention. These are usually more of a concern with long-term use and are usually not a problem with short-term or occasional use. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of these side effects:

- chest pain
- breathlessness
- black and sticky bowel movements