mefenamic acid - oral, Ponstel

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GENERIC NAME: MEFENAMIC ACID - ORAL (meff-en-AM-ick)

BRAND NAME(S): Ponstel

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including mefenamic acid) may rarely increase the risk for a (sometimes fatal) heart attack or stroke. This effect does not apply to low-dose aspirin. (See Drug Interactions section.) The risk may be greater if you have heart disease or increased risk for heart disease (for example, due to smoking, family history of heart disease, or conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes), or with longer use. This drug should not be taken right before or after heart bypass surgery (CABG). Also, this drug may infrequently cause serious (rarely fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. This bleeding can occur without warning symptoms at any time during treatment.

Stop taking this medication and seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following rare but very serious side effects: chest pain, severe dizziness, trouble breathing, weakness on one side of the body, sudden vision changes, slurred speech, black stools, persistent stomach/abdominal pain, vomit that looks like coffee grounds. (See also Precautions section.)

Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the risks and benefits of treatment with this medication.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.