Understanding Ponac Dosage for Babies and Children: A Comprehensive Guide
- Samantha Pieterse
- Aug 21
- 6 min read
Updated: Sep 12
When your child has a fever or is in pain, it’s natural to feel anxious. Many parents find themselves searching for “Ponac dosage for babies” at odd hours. Ponac is a pain and fever medicine commonly prescribed in South Africa. Unlike Panado (paracetamol), which is often the first choice, Ponac is part of the NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) group. This means it not only reduces fever but also alleviates inflammation and pain, such as teething discomfort, ear infections, or muscle aches.
Doctors and pharmacists typically reserve Ponac for situations where paracetamol alone isn’t sufficient. It can be administered as a suspension for babies and children or in tablet form for older kids, teens, and adults. Since it affects the stomach lining, it should always be taken after meals. It’s also not recommended for very young babies unless specifically prescribed.
At Mums & Bums Mother and Baby Clinic, we guide parents through safe medicine use daily. We explain when Ponac is appropriate, what dosage is safe, and when another option may be better. Here’s your all-ages guide to Ponac suspension and tablets.
What Exactly Is Ponac (Suspension & Tablets)?
Ponac is the brand name for mefenamic acid, a medication in the NSAID group. NSAIDs work by blocking chemicals in the body that trigger fever, pain, and inflammation.
What is Ponac Used For?
Ponac is prescribed for short-term pain and fever relief. While the uses are similar for children and adults, doctors recommend it for slightly different reasons based on age.
In Children, Ponac Suspension May be Prescribed For:
Pain relief: teething pain, ear infections, sore throats, minor injuries, post-vaccination discomfort.
Fever reduction: especially when Panado alone isn’t effective.
Inflammation control: mild swelling or tissue irritation.
For everyday fevers in kids, doctors usually start with paracetamol. Ponac is considered a step-up medicine when additional relief is needed.
⚠️ In babies under 6 months, Ponac is generally not recommended unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.
💊 Ponac is usually not the first line of treatment. Often, it will be given if your child needs a step up from Panado.
For comparison, see our full *South African Pediatric Medicine Dosages guide.
In Adults & Teens, Ponac Tablets or Capsules (250mg) Are Often Used For:
Period pain (one of the most common reasons for Ponac in adults).
Headaches and muscle aches.
Toothache or dental pain.
Joint pain or mild arthritis.
Fever when paracetamol or ibuprofen hasn’t provided enough relief.
Inflammation after minor injury or surgery.
Ponac Suspension Dosage for Babies & Children
Other brand names: Ponstel S, Adco-Mefenamic Acid, Fenamin Suspension, Ponac Suspension
Age | Dosage | How often |
|---|---|---|
6 – 24 months | 5ml | 8 hourly (3x daily) |
2 - 4 years | 10ml | 8 hourly (3x daily) |
4 – 8 years | 15ml | 8 hourly (3x daily) |
8 – 12 years | 20ml | 8 hourly (3x daily) |
Must be taken with a mea
Who Should Avoid Ponac (Babies & Children)
Ponac suspension isn’t suitable for every child. It should be avoided or only given under medical supervision in the following cases:
Babies under 6 months: Ponac is generally not recommended at this age.
Children with stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, or chronic stomach pain: Ponac can worsen irritation and bleeding.
Children with kidney or liver disease: Mefenamic acid may put extra strain on these organs.
Children with aspirin-sensitive asthma: Ponac, like other NSAIDs, may trigger wheezing or breathing difficulties.
Children with a history of allergic reaction to mefenamic acid or other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen).
Children with dehydration (e.g., from vomiting or diarrhea): Ponac can increase the risk of kidney problems.
👉 In these situations, paracetamol (Panado) or other alternatives are usually safer. Always check with a healthcare provider before giving Ponac if your child has any underlying condition.
📍 If your child is vomiting, have a look at our guide on *Valoid for Babies and Children: Safe Use & Dosage
Ponac Tablets & Capsules Dosage (250mg) for Teens & Adults
Ponac is also available as 250mg tablets/capsules. These are usually prescribed for teens and adults, not babies or toddlers.
Age | Dosage | How often |
12+ | 500mg (x2 250mg tablets) | 8 hourly (3x daily) |
Who Should Avoid Ponac (Adults & Teens)
While Ponac is effective for pain and fever, it’s not safe for everyone. Adults and teens should avoid Ponac if they have:
Stomach or intestinal ulcers (past or present): Ponac can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of bleeding.
History of gastrointestinal bleeding, especially from previous NSAID use.
Kidney or liver disease: Ponac can put extra strain on these organs.
Asthma triggered by aspirin or other NSAIDs: Ponac can cause dangerous breathing reactions.
Heart disease, high blood pressure, or stroke risk: Long-term NSAID use can increase cardiovascular risks.
Late pregnancy (third trimester): Mefenamic acid may affect the baby’s heart and circulation.
Known allergy to mefenamic acid or other NSAIDs.
⚠️ Ponac should also be used with caution in adults taking blood-thinning medication (like warfarin), as it increases bleeding risk.
🗓️ If you’re unsure whether Ponac is safe for you, book a consultation so we can guide you through safer alternatives.
Common Side Effects of Ponac
Most children and adults tolerate Ponac well, especially when it’s given for only a few days. Still, like all NSAIDs, it can cause side effects.
Mild, Short-Term Side Effects (Most Common)
Upset stomach, nausea, or vomiting
Diarrhea or loose stools
Mild stomach pain or discomfort
Drowsiness or dizziness (occasionally reported)
These are usually temporary and improve if the medicine is taken after food.
Less Common Side Effects
Skin reactions: mild rash, itching
Wheezing, shortness of breath
Headache
Serious but Rare Side Effects
Blood in vomit, black/tarry stools, severe abdominal pain
Swelling of lips, tongue, or face, difficulty breathing
Unexplained bruising or bleeding
Severe skin rash
When to Stop Ponac Immediately and Seek Care
If your child or you vomit blood, pass black stools, develop swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, or have difficulty breathing.
🚨 Always give Ponac after food or with milk to protect the stomach, and never exceed the prescribed dose.
FAQs Parents & Adults Often Ask About Ponac
Is Ponac the same as Ponstan?
Yes. Ponac is one of the brand names for mefenamic acid, also sold as Ponstan. Both contain the same active ingredient and work in the same way.
Does Ponac contain paracetamol?
No. Ponac is not Panado and does not contain it. Sometimes doctors prescribe Ponac and paracetamol together for stronger relief, but doses must be given at the correct intervals.
How long does Ponac take to work?
Ponac is absorbed relatively quickly and usually starts working within 30 to 60 minutes. Pain relief can last up to 6–8 hours.
Can I take Ponac during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Pregnancy: Ponac is not recommended in the third trimester, as NSAIDs can affect the baby’s heart and circulation. In the first and second trimesters, it should only be used if a doctor decides the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breastfeeding: Small amounts can pass into breast milk. It is usually avoided in breastfeeding mothers unless specifically advised by a doctor.
Can I (or my child) use Ponac every day?
No. Ponac is intended for short-term use only (usually a few days). Prolonged or frequent use increases the risk of stomach ulcers, kidney problems, and bleeding. If pain or fever persists, another cause should be investigated instead of continuing Ponac daily.
Is Ponac safe to take on an empty stomach?
No. Ponac should always be taken after food or with milk, as it can irritate the stomach lining.
Can Ponac be used with ibuprofen/Nurofen?
No. Both Ponac and ibuprofen are NSAIDs, so using them together could lead to overdose and increase the risk of side effects (especially stomach bleeding) without extra benefit. A doctor may advise alternating Ponac with paracetamol, but not with another NSAID.
Can Ponac be used for teething pain?
Sometimes, but only if other medicines (like paracetamol) haven’t worked. Ponac is stronger than Panado and is not usually the first choice for teething.
Is Ponac safe for babies under 6 months?
No. Ponac is not recommended for infants under 6 months.
When to See Mums & Bums Centurion
While Ponac can help with fever and pain, it isn’t always the right solution. Bring your child in for a check-up if:
Their fever lasts longer than 2 days, even after medication.
You notice side effects such as persistent vomiting, rash, wheezing, or unusual drowsiness.
Your child is refusing fluids or showing signs of dehydration (dry mouth, fewer wet nappies, lethargy). This could be a sign of dehydration.
You’re unsure if Ponac is the best medicine, or if another treatment might be safer or more effective.
💬 WhatsApp us or book your appointment online. We will assess your child and guide you to the right treatment
What Parents and Adults in Centurion Should Remember
Ponac, whether as a suspension for children or 250mg tablets for adults, can be a helpful medicine for pain, fever, and inflammation. However, confusion around dosages, side effects, and whether it’s the same as Panado often leaves parents second-guessing.
Used correctly, Ponac can bring relief, but it isn’t always the right answer, especially in babies under 6 months, children with ongoing fever, or adults with stomach or heart conditions. That’s where professional guidance makes the difference.
At Mums & Bums Mother and Baby Clinic, we can support your family with:
Baby checkups and growth monitoring
Safe medicine guidance (Ponac, Panado, Valoid, and more)
Vaccinations and routine care
Sick visits when your little one just isn’t getting better
💬 Chat with us on WhatsApp or book your appointment online, and get peace of mind knowing your family’s care is in safe hands.
