Daypro

Generic name: Oxaprozin

What is Daypro?

Daypro is used to relieve the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

What is the most important information I should know about Daypro?

Daypro belongs to a class of medications known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs may increase your risk for a potentially fatal heart attack or stroke. This risk is greater with longer use of NSAIDs and in people with heart disease. NSAIDs should never be used right before or after a heart surgery called a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG).

NSAIDs may cause ulcers and bleeding in the stomach and intestines. Ulcers and bleeding may happen without any warning symptoms and may cause death. The risk of getting an ulcer or bleeding is greater if you take a type of medicine called "corticosteroids" or "anticoagulants", with longer NSAID use, or if you smoke, drink alcohol, are of older age, or have poor health.

Who should not take Daypro?

You should avoid this medication if you have a known sensitivity to Daypro or if you have had an asthma attack, hives, or other allergic reaction to aspirin or any other NSAID. You should not take Daypro right before or after heart bypass surgery.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Daypro?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Daypro. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are at risk for heart disease or stroke, or if you have high blood pressure, fluid retention and edema, ulcers or intestinal bleeding, or kidney or liver problems. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Women should not use NSAIDs in late pregnancy.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Osteoarthritis

Adults: The usual recommended dose is 1200 milligrams (mg) (two 600-mg caplets) once a day.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Adults: The usual recommended dose is 1200 mg (two 600-mg caplets) once a day.

The maximum total daily dose of Daypro in adults is 1800 mg, in divided doses.

Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

Children 6 to 16 years: The recommended daily dose is based on body weight. The recommended dose for patients weighing 48 to 69 pounds is 600 mg once a day; for patients weighing 70 to 119 pounds, it is 900 mg once a day; and patients weighing >120 pounds, it is 1200 mg once a day.

Doses >1200 mg in children have not been studied.

How should I take Daypro?

This medication should be used exactly as prescribed. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration needed.

What should I avoid while taking Daypro?

Avoid drinking alcohol or smoking while taking Daypro. Unless your doctor advises you to do so, avoid using aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medications simultaneously with Daypro. Since Daypro may cause sensitivity to sunlight, avoid prolonged or unprotected exposure to sunlight or artificial sunlamps.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Daypro?

If Daypro 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 Daypro with the following: ACE inhibitors, aspirin, beta-blockers, diuretics, glyburide, lithium, H₂-receptor antagonists, methotrexate, warfarin

What are the possible side effects of Daypro?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, gas, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, dizziness

Serious side effects may include: Heart attack, stroke, blood pressure changes, heart failure from fluid retention, liver and kidney problems, gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding, life-threatening skin reactions, asthma attacks in people who have asthma

Get emergency help right away if you experience any of the following: shortness of breath or trouble breathing, chest pain, weakness in one part of side of your body, slurred speech, swelling of the face or throat.

Stop Daypro and call your doctor right away if you experience any of the following: nausea, feel more tired or weaker than usual, itching, your skin or eyes look yellow, stomach pain, flu-like symptoms, vomit blood, there is blood in your bowel movement or it is black and sticky, skin rash or blisters with fever, unusual weight gain, swelling of the arms and legs, hands, and feet.

Can I receive Daypro if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Daypro should be avoided in late pregnancy. If you are nursing, your doctor will advise you whether to discontinue Daypro or to discontinue nursing. It is not known whether Daypro passes from a nursing mother to her infant.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Daypro?

If you miss a dose, take it with food as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses of at the same time.

How should I store Daypro?

Store tightly closed at room temperature and protect from light.