Generic Relafen, tablets

Chemical Name: NABUMETONE

Common uses

This medicine is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (nsaid) used to relieve the symptoms of arthritis. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Before using

Do not take this medicine if you are also taking tacrolimus or heparins. Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking serotonin reuptake blocker medicines such as fluoxetine or citalopram, aminoglycoside antibiotics, anticoagulants, biphosphonates (e.g., alendronate, risedronate), cyclosporine, lithium, or methotrexate. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions including kidney or liver disease, congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, diabetes, sle (systemic lupus erythematosus), ulcers, asthma, nasal polyps, any allergies - especially aspirin/nsaid allergy (e.g., ibuprofen, celecoxib), pregnancy, or breast-feeding. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This medicine may be taken with food or antacids if stomach upset occurs.

Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and light. If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

Do not take this medicine if you ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or any other medicine used to treat pain, fever, swelling, or arthritis. This medicine may cause dizziness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to this medicine. This medicine may cause increased sensitivity to the sun. Avoid exposure to the sun or sunlamps until you know how you react to this medicine. Use a sunscreen or protective clothing if you must be outside for a prolonged period.

Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist.

For women: if you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. It is unknown if this medicine is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine.

Possible side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include diarrhea or constipation, stomach upset, nausea, gas, dizziness, headache, dry mouth, or trouble sleeping. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience swelling of face, hands, or ankles; ringing in ears; generalized itching or rash; vomiting; sore throat or fever; unusual bleeding or bruising; changes in vision; yellowing of the skin or eyes; or change in amount or color of urine. Contact your doctor immediately and stop taking this medicine if you notice any of the following unlikely but very serious side effects: black stools, persistent stomach/abdominal pain, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include stomach pain, difficulty breathing, and blood in stools.

Additional information

Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.