Nabumetone: Relief from Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis

Information You Should Know when Taking Nabumetone

Sue Ellen K.
If your doctor has prescribed Nabumetone to you, or if you are simply interested in learning more about how Nabumetone is used, then this literature will prove beneficial to you. Nabumetone is a generic prescription medication. Nabumetone is also an NSAID. NSAID's are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Nabumetone works by blocking the hormones in the body known as prostaglandins, which cause the inflammation that Nabumetone treats. Nabumetone is indicated for the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, as well as osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is when the body attacks its own joints for no apparent reason, leading to pain and inflammation. Osteoarthritis is the process of the cartilage and bones breaking down in the joints. This, too, causes much pain and inflammation. Nabumetone comes in tablet form, and it also comes in two strengths, which are 500 milligrams and 750 milligrams. The 500 milligrams version of Nabumetone is white in color, and the 750 milligram version of Nabumetone is peach in color. You may find Nabumetone prescribed under the brand name Relafen.

To begin taking Nabumetone, 1000 milligrams of Nabumetone is given one time a day with food or milk. To keep a patient in maintenance, 500 milligrams up to 2000 milligrams are given daily, and again, with food or milk. The lower possible dose that has any therapeutic effect should be used for what is known as chronic therapy. You, as the patient, must understand that using Nabumetone in the correct way every day is extremely important in order to see any noticeable improvement in your arthritic conditions. Nabumetone should not be taken with any aspirins. You should also know that eating food at the same time when taking Nabumetone will increase the rate of absorption. If you are a patient who is allergic to any ingredient in Nabumetone, aspirins, or other NSAIDS, Nabumetone is not for you. Nabumetone may cause gastro-intestinal distress/toxicity, as well as ulcers, so patients who are prone to those things should be extra careful when taking Nabumetone. In patients who suffer from liver dysfunctions, it should be known that Nabumetone might increase liver enzymes. Patients who also suffer from kidney problems, or who are taking diuretics, and the elderly should also take caution when taking Nabumetone.

Nabumetone, like all medications, may cause side effects. These side effects can include dyspepsia, constipation, flatulence, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dizziness, nausea, headache, pruritis (itching sensation in the skin), and tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Remember, you can take Nabumetone with milk or food. Remember, too, that you must be patient when using Nabumetone. You may not see results until two weeks later. Taking Nabumetone while drinking alcohol may make you more prone to ulcers. Store Nabumetone in a cool, dry place away from children and sunlight. Sunlight may diminish the potency of Nabumetone. If you miss a dose of Nabumetone, skip it and then return to your regularly dosing schedule. If any of the above side effects become especially bothersome or severe, contact your doctor immediately.

Published by Sue Ellen K.

Sue Ellen is a 25 year old woman with a passion for scrapbooking, reading and anything nautical. She has two children and is in a fulfilling relationship.  View profile

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