Orudis

Generic name: Ketoprofen

What is Orudis?

Orudis, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is used to relieve the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis). It is also used to relieve mild to moderate pain, as well as menstrual pain.

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

This medicine can increase your risk of life-threatening heart or circulation problems, including heart attack or stroke. Your risk increases the longer you use Orudis and also if you have heart disease. Seek emergency medical help if you have symptoms of heart or circulation problems, such as chest pain, weakness, shortness of breath, slurred speech, or problems with vision or balance.

Orudis should never be used right before or after a heart surgery known as a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG).

You should have frequent check-ups with your doctor if you take Orudis regularly. Ulcers or internal bleeding can occur without warning and can be life-threatening. The chance of getting an ulcer or bleeding is greater if you are older, are taking medicines called "corticosteroids" and "anticoagulants" if you smoke or drink alcohol; or you experience sudden poor health. Your risk also increases the longer you use Orudis.

Who should not take Orudis?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Orudis, or if you have had asthma attacks, hives, or other allergic reactions caused by aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, you should not take Orudis. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

Do not use this medicine just before or after having heart bypass surgery (also called coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

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

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Orudis. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a history of heart attack, stroke, blood clot, heart disease, congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding, low red blood cells (anemia), bowel problems, diverticulosis (an out-pouching of a hollow [or a fluid filled] structure in the colon), liver or kidney disease, asthma, polyps in your nose, had life-threatening allergic reactions, or if you smoke, or if you had or plan to have CABG surgery.

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.

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis

Adults: The starting dose of Orudis is 75 milligrams (mg) 3 times a day or 50 mg 4 times a day; for Oruvail, 200 mg taken once a day. The most you should take in a day is 300 mg of Orudis or 200 mg of Oruvail. Some side effects, such as headache or upset stomach, increase in severity as the dose gets higher.

Mild to Moderate Pain and Menstrual Pain

Adults: The usual dose of Orudis is 25 to 50 mg every 6 to 8 hours as needed.

Smaller people, older people, and those with kidney or liver disease need smaller doses of Orudis. Doses above 75 mg have no additional effect.

Orudis is not for use in children under 16 years of age, unless recommended by a doctor.

How should I take Orudis?

Take Orudis exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It should be used at the lowest dose possible for your treatment for the shortest time needed.

To minimize side effects, your doctor may recommend that you take Orudis with food, an antacid, or milk.

If you are using Orudis for arthritis, it should be taken regularly.

Orudis and Oruvail should not be taken together. .

What should I avoid while taking Orudis?

Do not use any other over-the-counter cold, allergy, or pain medication without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. Many medicines available over the counter contain medicines similar to Orudis (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen). Do not drink alcohol while taking Orudis. Alcohol can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Orudis?

If Orudis 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 Orudis with the following: alcohol, aspirin, blood thinners such as warfarin, diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide or furosemide, heart medications known as ACE inhibitors, lithium, methotrexate, and probenecid.

Do not combine pain relievers without asking your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of Orudis?

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: abdominal pain, changes in kidney function, constipation, diarrhea, dreams, fluid retention, gas, headache, inability to sleep, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, nervousness, drowsiness, depression, tiredness, ringing of the ears, visual disturbances, rash, abnormalities of kidney function, signs or symptoms of a urinary tract infection

Can I receive Orudis if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Orudis during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is particularly important not to use this product during the last 3 months of pregnancy unless your doctor has told you to do so..

Orudis may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. Orudis is not recommended in breastfeeding.

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

Since Orudis is sometimes taken as needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are taking the medication regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at your next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

How should I store Orudis?

Store Orudis at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light.