Drug Name

Relafen (Nabumetone)

Drug Uses

Relafen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is used to treat the pain and swelling associated with arthritis.

How Taken

Take this medication as directed. Do not increase your dose or take it more often without your doctor's approval. May be taken with or without food. Take this medication with 6 to 8 ounces (180-240ml) of water. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking this drug.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Relafen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) effective in treating fever, pain, and inflammation in the body. As a group, NSAIDs are non-narcotic relievers of mild to moderate pain of many causes, including injury, menstrual cramps, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal conditions. Since the response to different NSAIDs varies from patient to patient, it is not unusual for a doctor to try different NSAIDs for any given condition.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.

Warnings/Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history especially of: any liver or kidney disease, blood disorders, ulcers, heart disease, alcohol use, high blood pressure, eye disease, asthma, nasal polyps, any allergies - especially aspirin/NSAID allergy (e.g., ibuprofen, celecoxib). Use caution when performing tasks requiring alertness. Limit alcohol intake as it may intensify the drowsiness effect of this medication. This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol, especially when combined with this medicine, may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Do not take aspirin without consulting your doctor. Check the ingredients of any nonprescription medication you may be taking since many cough-and-cold formulas contain aspirin. Caution is advised when this drug is used in the elderly. This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Use of this drug in the last 6 months of pregnancy is not recommended. It is unknown if relafen is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Possible Side Effects

Upset stomach, diarrhea or constipation, nausea, vomiting, unusual fatigue, drowsiness, or headache may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: ringing in ears/loss of hearing. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: change in amount or color of the urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin, easy bruising or bleeding, persistent sore throat, fever, vision changes. If you notice any of the following unlikely but very serious side effects, stop taking this medication and consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately: black stools, persistent stomach/ abdominal pain, vomit that looks like coffee grounds. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

More Information

In arthritis, it may take up to two weeks before the full effects of this medicine are noted. For best results, this medication must be taken regularly and used together with a proper exercise program as directed by your doctor.