Generic Name : DIFLUNISAL
Pronunciation : (dye floo' ni sal)
Trade Name(s) : Dolobid
Why it is prescribed: Diflunisal is used to relieve mild
to moderate pain, including the pain and swelling caused by arthritis.
When it is to be taken: Follow the instructions on your
prescription label.It may take several days for the full effect
of this medication to be felt. Contact your doctor if your symptoms
do not improve or if they become worse.
How it should be taken: Diflunisal comes in the form of
tablets. The tablets should not be chewed or crushed. Swallow
them whole. Your prescription label tells you how much to take
at each dose; do not take more.
Special Instruction :
1. If you are taking diflunisal on a regular schedule to treat
a chronic illness such as arthritis, the medication will be effective
only if you follow the schedule prescribed by your doctor.
2. Keep all appointments with your doctor so your response to
the drug can be evaluated.
3. If you are taking diflunisal on a regular schedule, take the
missed dose as soon as you remember and take any remaining doses
for that day at evenly spaced intervals. However, if it is almost
time for the next dose, omit the missed dose. Do not take a double
dose
Side Effects :
1. Headache, nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea or constipation, indigestion,
drowsiness or insomnia, dizziness. Take the drug with food or
milk.
2. Skin rash, ringing in the ears. Stop taking diflunisal and
contact your doctor.
Other Precautions :
1. Alcoholic beverages may increase the possibility or severity
of stomach problems.
2. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should tell their
doctors.
3. If you ever had a bad reaction to aspirin or medication for
arthritis or pain, tell your doctor before taking diflunisal.
4. Tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription medications
you are taking, especially anticoagulants, antacids, hydrochlorothiazide
and methotrexate.
5. Do not take acetaminophen while taking diflunisal.
6. Check the labels of over-the-counter medications carefully
to see if they contain acetaminophen.
7. Before taking diflunisal, tell your doctor if you have hemophilia
or other bleeding problems; liver, kidney, or heart disease; high
blood pressure; or ulcers or other stomach problems.
Storage Conditions : Keep diflunisal in the container it
came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children.