Diflunisal

Generic Name : Diflunisal

TradeName : Dolobid

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : 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, diarrhoea 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.