Relafen Medication - Uses & Side Effects

NABUMETONE (Relafen®) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It helps relieve pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Generic nabumetone tablets are available. Relafen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is used to relieve the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis).

Relafen Dosage

• The usual starting dose is 1000 milligrams taken as a single dose. Dosage may be increased up to 2000 milligrams per day, taken once or twice a day.
• The safety and effectiveness of Relafen in children have not been established.

Uses of Relafen

• Relafen is used to reduce the pain, inflammation, and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Relafen may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
• Nabumetone, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is used to treat the pain and swelling associated with arthritis.

Side Effects of Relafen

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine whether it is safe for you to continue taking Relafen. Side effects may include:

• Abdominal pain
• constipation
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• fluid retention
• gas
• headache
• indigestion
• itching
• nausea
• rash
• ringing in ears.

Warnings and precautions before taking Relafen :

• Stomach and intestinal ulcers can occur without warning. Remember to get regular checkups.
• Make sure the doctor knows if you have kidney or liver disease. Relafen should be used with caution.
• This drug can cause fluid retention and swelling. It should be used with caution if you have congestive heart failure or high blood pressure.
• Relafen can cause increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Drug Interaction :- 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 blood-thinning drugs such as Coumadin and aspirin.Other drugs with which Relafen could possibly interact include:

• Diuretics such as HydroDIURIL and Lasix
  
• Lithium (Eskalith)
  
• Methotrexate

Overdose

Overdoses of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Relafen have been known to cause stomach bleeding, elevated blood pressure, kidney failure, impaired breathing, and coma, though these effects are rare. Warning signs of overdose include:

• Drowsiness
• lack of energy
• nausea
• vomiting
• stomach pain