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Diflunisal |
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What is Diflunisal and why is it prescribed? Diflunisal, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is used to treat mild to moderate pain and relieve the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. You should have frequent checkups with your doctor if you take Diflunisal regularly. Ulcers or internal bleeding can occur without warning. How should you take Diflunisal? Follow your doctors directions for taking Diflunisal. Diflunisal should be taken with food or food together with an antacid, and with a full glass of water or milk. Never take it on an empty stomach. Tablets should be swallowed whole, not chewed or crushed. If you are using Diflunisal for arthritis, it should be taken regularly. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time. Do not store Diflunisal in damp places like the bathroom. Are there any Diflunisal side effects? Diflunisal side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Diflunisal side effects may include abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, gas, headache, inability to sleep, indigestion, nausea, rash, ringing in ears, sleepiness, and vomiting. Less common or rare Diflunisal side effects may include abdominal bleeding, anemia, blurred vision, confusion, depression, disorientation, dry mouth and nose, fluid retention, flushing, hepatitis, hives, inflammation of lips and tongue, itching, kidney failure, light-headedness, loss of appetite, nervousness, painful urination, peptic ulcer, pins and needles, protein or blood in urine, rash, sensitivity to light, skin eruptions, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, vertigo, weakness, and yellow eyes and skin. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Diflunisal? If Diflunisal is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Diflunisal with Acetaminophen (Tylenol), Antacids taken regularly, Aspirin, Cyclosporine (Sandimmune), Methotrexate (Rheumatrex), Oral anticoagulants (blood thinners), Other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Advil, Motrin, Naprosyn, others), The arthritis medication sulindac (Clinoril), or The diuretic hydrochlorothiazide. Are there any special warnings about Diflunisal? Stomach ulcers and bleeding can occur without warning, especially if you are 65 or older. These and other side effects are also more likely if you have poor kidney function. Diflunisal should be used with caution if you have kidney or liver disease; and it can cause liver inflammation in some people. Do not take aspirin or any other anti-inflammatory medications while taking Diflunisal, unless your doctor tells you to do so. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Diflunisal can hide the signs and symptoms of infection. Be sure your doctor knows about any infection you may have. Diflunisal can cause vision problems. If you experience any changes in your vision, inform your doctor. Diflunisal may prolong bleeding time. If you are taking blood-thinning medication, take Diflunisal with caution. If you have heart disease or high blood pressure, use Diflunisal with caution. It can increase water retention. Diflunisal may cause you to become drowsy or less alert. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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