Relafen
Nabumetone
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Relafen
Relafen is a non-steroidal anti inflammatory drug (NSAID). NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs) are non-opioid or non narcotic relievers of mild to moderate pain of many causes, like injury, menstrual cramps, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal conditions. Non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (like Relafen) acts by reducing inflammation by inhibiting the enzyme cyclo-oxygenase.
Therapeutic Uses of Relafen
Relafen is used in the treatment of pain and swelling associated with arthritis it can also be used in treatment of any fever, pain, and inflammation. It can also be used in some other medical conditions that your doctor decides.
Direction of use of Relafen
Relafen should be used as directed by your doctor. Take Relafen with a glass of water with food (preferably) or without food. Do not lie down in bed for at least 30 minutes after taking Relafen. Without asking your doctor, do not increase dose of Relafen or take it more frequently.
If You Miss a Dose of Relafen
If you are taking Relafen regularly and miss a dose of it you should take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to you regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at a time for catching up with the missed dose.
How to Store Relafen
Relafen should be stored at room temperature. Store it away from heat, moisture and direct light. Keep Relafen out of reach of children.
More Information About Relafen
If you are taking Relafen for treatment of arthritis, it generally takes up to two weeks before the full effects of this medicine are experienced. Do not stop taking Relafen if you are not getting immediate results. For best results, Relafen should be taken regularly and used together with a proper exercise program as directed by your doctor.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Relafen
- You should inform your doctor about your medical history, especially if you suffered from any liver or kidney disease, blood disorders, ulcers (stomach ulcer or duodenal ulcers), heart disease, alcohol abuse, high blood pressure, eye disease, asthma, nasal polyps, any allergies (especially aspirin or other NSAID allergy).
- Relafen may cause stomach bleeding and daily use of alcohol (especially when combined with this medicine) may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. 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 and other NSAIDs in them.
- Relafen may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you take alcohol or certain other medications these effects may be more prominent. You should not drive or perform other tasks that need constant attention and monitoring.
- Use Relafen cautiously in elderly as they may be more sensitive to side effects of Relafen.
- Relafen should be used during pregnancy only if clearly indicated. Consult the risks and benefits of using Relafen 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 Adverse Effects of Relafen
- Stomach upset, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, unusual fatigue, drowsiness, headache etc. are common side effects of Relafen. You should get prompt medical attention if any of these side effects become persistent and troublesome.
- You should inform your doctor immediately if you experience ringing in ears (tinnitus), loss of hearing etc.
- Get immediate medical attention if you experience any unlikely but very serious side effects Relafen like change in amount and/or color of the urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice), easy bruising or bleeding, persistent sore throat, fever, vision changes etc.
- You should stop taking Relafen and consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately if you experience any serious but unlikely side effects of Relafen like black stools, persistent stomach pain, abdominal pain, coffee ground vomiting etc.
Allergic reaction to Relafen is unlikely, but you should seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction are skin rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing, swelling of lips, tongue, face etc.