Relafen

Generic name: Nabumetone

What is Relafen?

Relafen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is used to relieve the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

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

Relafen may increase your risk of life-threatening heart or circulation problems, including heart attack or stroke. This risk will increase the longer you use Relafen.

Relafen may also increase your risk of serious effects on the stomach or intestines, including bleeding or perforation (forming of a hole), which may be fatal. These conditions may occur without warning; remember to get regular checkups.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are sold in lower doses without a prescription (over-the-counter). Talk to your healthcare provider before using over-the-counter NSAIDs for more than 10 days during therapy with Relafen.

Who should not take Relafen?

Do not take Relafen if you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Relafen, or if you have had asthma attacks, hives or other allergic reactions caused by Relafen, aspirin, or other NSAIDs.

Do not take Relafen 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 Relafen?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Relafen. 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, liver or kidney disease, asthma, polyps in your nose, a bleeding or blood clotting disorder, or smoking.

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.

Adults: Relafen should only be used at the lowest dose possible and for the shortest time needed.

The usual starting dose is 1000 milligrams (mg) taken as a single dose. Your dosage may be increased up to 2000 mg per day, taken once or twice a day.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of Relafen in children have not been established.

How should I take Relafen?

Relafen can be taken with or without food. Take Relafen exactly as prescribed.

What should I avoid while taking Relafen?

Relafen may cause increased sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight.

Do not drink alcohol while taking Relafen. Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach bleeding.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Relafen?

If Relafen 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 Relafen with the following: aspirin, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, the blood-thinning drug warfarin, lithium, methotrexate.

What are the possible side effects of Relafen?

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, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, fluid retention, gas, headache, indigestion, itching, nausea, rash, ringing in ears

Can I receive Relafen if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Relafen during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. However, in late pregnancy, as with other NSAIDs, Relafen should be avoided because it will cause premature closure of the ductus arteriosus (during fetal development, this shunt protects the lungs from being overworked and allows the right ventricle to strengthen).

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

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take a double dose.

How should I store Relafen?

Keep Relafen in the container it came in, tightly closed, and away from moist places and direct light. Relafen can be stored at room temperature.