Brand name:
Relafen
Pronounced: REL-ah-fen
Generic name:
Nabumetone
Why is Relafen prescribed?
Relafen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is used to
relieve the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain
associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis (the most
common form of arthritis).
Most important fact about Relafen
You should have frequent checkups with your doctor if you take
Relafen regularly. Ulcers or internal bleeding can occur with or
without warning.
How should you take Relafen?
Relafen can be taken with or without food. Take it exactly as
prescribed.
--If you miss a dose...
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. Never take a double dose.
--Storage instructions...
Keep Relafen in the container it came in, tightly closed,
and away from moist places and direct light. It can be stored at
room temperature.
Relafen 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 whether it is safe for you to continue taking Relafen.
- Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain,
constipation,
diarrhea,
dizziness,
fluid retention,
gas,
headache,
indigestion,
itching,
nausea,
rash,
ringing in ears
Why should Relafen not be prescribed?
Do not take Relafen if you are sensitive to or have ever
had an allergic reaction to Relafen, or if you have had asthma
attacks, hives or other allergic reactions caused by Relafen,
aspirin, or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Special warnings about Relafen
Stomach and intestinal ulcers can occur without warning. Remember
to get regular checkups.
Make sure the doctor knows if you have kidney or liver disease.
Relafen should be used with caution.
This drug can cause fluid retention and swelling. It should be
used with caution if you have congestive heart failure or high blood
pressure.
Relafen can cause increased sensitivity to sunlight.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Relafen
If Relafen is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of
either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially
important to check with your doctor before combining Relafen with
blood-thinning drugs such as Coumadin and aspirin.
Other drugs with which Relafen could possibly interact include:
Diuretics such as HydroDIURIL and Lasix
Lithium (Eskalith)
Methotrexate
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Relafen during pregnancy have not been adequately
studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your
doctor immediately. Relafen may appear in breast milk and could
affect a nursing infant. If Relafen is essential to your
health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding
until your treatment with Relafen is finished.
Recommended dosage for Relafen
ADULTS
Overdosage
Overdoses of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Relafen
have been known to cause stomach bleeding, elevated blood pressure,
kidney failure, impaired breathing, and coma, though these effects
are rare.
- Warning signs of overdose include:
Drowsiness,,
lack of energy,
nausea,
vomiting,
stomach pain
If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
|
