Painkillers Guide: When to Use Panadol, Ponstan, or Brufen – Dawa Healthcare

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Understanding Painkillers: When to Use Panadol, Ponstan, or Brufen

Understanding Painkillers: When to Use Panadol, Ponstan, or Brufen

Aug 19, 2025

Muhammad Danish

Painkillers are among the most commonly used medicines worldwide. Whether it’s a mild headache, muscle strain, or menstrual cramps, people often reach for over-the-counter options like Panadol, Ponstan, or Brufen. But with so many choices, how do you know which one is best for your condition? Understanding the uses, differences, and possible side effects of these medicines can help you make safe and informed decisions about pain relief.

Panadol: Gentle and Trusted

Panadol (paracetamol) is widely known as one of the safest and most effective painkillers. It works by reducing pain signals in the brain and lowering fever. It is especially useful for:

  • Headaches and migraines

  • Toothache

  • Fever due to infections

  • Mild muscle aches

For most people, Panadol is considered safe when used correctly. However, taking too much can damage the liver. That’s why safe dosage and safe painkiller use guidelines must always be followed.

Ponstan: Effective for Menstrual Cramps

Ponstan (mefenamic acid) is commonly prescribed for moderate pain, particularly menstrual cramps. It belongs to a group of medicines called NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Ponstan not only relieves pain but also reduces inflammation, making it ideal for:

  • Period pain

  • Dental pain

  • Muscle aches

  • Post-surgery discomfort

While effective, Ponstan can irritate the stomach lining and should be taken with food. It is also not suitable for people with certain kidney or stomach problems. Choosing Ponstan for menstrual cramps should always be done under medical guidance.

Brufen: For Headaches and Muscle Pain

Brufen (ibuprofen) is another NSAID widely used for headaches, muscle pain, and joint discomfort. It is stronger than Panadol in reducing inflammation, which makes it useful for:

  • Muscle strains and sprains

  • Back pain

  • Arthritis pain

  • Headaches and migraines

Like Ponstan, Brufen can cause stomach irritation if overused, so it should not be taken on an empty stomach. Following Panadol vs Brufen effectiveness comparisons, Brufen often works better for inflammatory pain, while Panadol is safer for long-term use.

Comparing Painkillers for Different Conditions

Each painkiller has its own strengths:

  • Panadol: Best for fever and mild pain, safest for most people.

  • Ponstan: Best for menstrual cramps and short-term relief of moderate pain.

  • Brufen: Best for inflammation-related pain such as arthritis or muscle strain.

Understanding these differences ensures you select the right medicine for your specific condition rather than relying on trial and error.

Safe Painkiller Use Guidelines

To avoid risks, follow these safe painkiller use guidelines:

  • Never exceed the recommended dosage.

  • Do not combine multiple painkillers without medical advice.

  • Take NSAIDs (Ponstan, Brufen) with food to prevent stomach irritation.

  • Avoid alcohol, especially when taking Panadol, to protect the liver.

  • Consult a doctor if pain persists beyond a few days.

Responsible use ensures maximum benefit with minimum risk.

Side Effects of Common Painkillers

While generally safe, painkillers may cause side effects if misused:

  • Panadol: Liver damage if overdosed.

  • Ponstan: Stomach pain, nausea, or kidney problems with long-term use.

  • Brufen: Stomach irritation, ulcers, or increased blood pressure.

Recognizing these side effects of common painkillers is important to prevent complications.

Why Buy from Trusted Pharmacies

With counterfeit medicines circulating in the market, always purchase from reliable sources. Dawa Healthcare Pharmacy, the top-rated pharmacy in Karachi, ensures authentic, safe, and effective medicines. Whether you need Panadol, Ponstan, or Brufen, you can rely on Dawa Healthcare, known as the affordable pharmacy in Karachi, for genuine products and professional guidance.

Conclusion

Painkillers like Panadol, Ponstan, and Brufen are powerful tools for managing pain, but knowing when and how to use them is key to safety. While Panadol is gentle and safe for everyday use, Ponstan is highly effective for menstrual cramps, and Brufen works best for headaches and muscle pain caused by inflammation. By following safe painkiller use guidelines and buying only from trusted pharmacies like Dawa Healthcare and Dawa Healthcare Pharmacy, you can ensure effective relief without compromising your health.