Patient Monograph on Arthrotec!

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Greetings Listers: Here is info on Arthrotec

Patient Education Monograph for Diclofenac Sodium/Misoprostol

USES:

Diclofenac relieves pain and swelling. Misoprostol protects the stomach from

diclofenac's irritating effects. This combination medication is used to treat

arthritis in people at high risk of developing stomach ulcers.

HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION:

Take this medication by mouth with food or milk or immediately after a meal as

directed. Swallow the tablets whole. Do not chew, crush or dissolve the drug.

Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase the dose or take it

more often than prescribed. Maximum benefit comes from continued and

routine use. Do not use this only when arthritis flares-up or for treating other

pain, unless directed to do so by your doctor.

SIDE EFFECTS:

Stomach upset, stomach pain, diarrhea or gas may occur the first few days as

your body adjusts to the medication. Other side effects reported include

headache, dizziness. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome,

inform your doctor. To minimize dizziness and lightheadedness when rising

from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Notify your doctor if you

develop

dark or bloody stools, dark urine, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, ringing in the

ears, breathing trouble, unusual bruising or bleeding, swelling of the feet or

ankles, increased menstrual bleeding, vision changes, lightheadedness,

yellowing of the eyes or skin, mental confusion or depression, itching or skin

rash while taking this medication. Infrequently, this medication may increase

the skin's sensitivity to sunlight. If this happens to you, avoid prolonged sun

exposure, wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen. Avoid sunlamps. In the

unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate

medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching,

swelling, dizziness or trouble breathing.

PRECAUTIONS:

Tell your doctor your medical history especially of any liver or kidney disease,

blood disorders, ulcers, heart disease, alcohol use, high blood pressure, eye

disease or allergies, especially drug allergies. Use caution when performing

tasks requiring alertness. Limit alcohol intake as it may intensify the

drowsiness effect of this medication and make your stomach or intestines more

likely to bleed. Caution is advised when this drug is used in the elderly. This

medication should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think

you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. This drug is excreted into

breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS:

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may

take including aspirin, NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen), antacids, digoxin,

" water pills " (diuretics), " blood thinners " (e.g., warfarin), oral diabetic

drugs,

high blood pressure medicine, cyclosporine, methotrexate and lithium. Check

the ingredients of any nonprescription medicines you may be using since many

cough, cold and pain products contain aspirin or other NSAIDs (e.g.,

ibuprofen).

NOTES:

Do not share this medication with others.

MISSED DOSE:

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near

the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your

usual dosing schedule. Do not " double-up " the dose to catch up.

STORAGE:

Store at room temperature away from heat and light. Do not store in the

bathroom.

Hope this is helpful

Peace and Blessings'

D.