Daypro

Generic name: OxaprozinBrand names: Daypro

Why is Daypro prescribed?

Daypro is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to relieve the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis (the most common kind of arthritis).

Most important fact about Daypro

You should have frequent check-ups with your doctor if you take Daypro regularly. Ulcers and internal bleeding can occur without warning.

How should you take Daypro?

Take Daypro with a full glass of water. If the drug upsets your stomach, your doctor may recommend taking Daypro with food, milk, or an antacid, even though food may delay onset of relief.

It will also help to prevent irritation in your upper digestive tract if you avoid lying down for about 20 minutes after taking Daypro.

Take Daypro exactly as prescribed.

• If you miss a dose...Try to take Daypro at the same time each day—for example, after breakfast. If you forget to take a dose and remember later in the day, you can still take it. If you completely forget to take your medication, do not double the dose the next day to make up for the missed dose. You should get back on your normal schedule as soon as possible.

• Storage instructions...Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from light.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can decide if it is safe for you to continue taking Daypro.

• Side effects may include:Constipation, diarrhea, indigestion, nausea, rash

Why should Daypro not be prescribed?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Daypro, or if you have ever developed asthma, nasal tumors, or other allergic reactions due to aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, you should not take Daypro. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

Special warnings about Daypro

Use Daypro with caution if you have kidney or liver disease.

Do not take aspirin or any other anti-inflammatory medications while taking Daypro, unless your doctor tells you to do so.

Daypro can increase water retention. Use with caution if you have heart disease or high blood pressure.

If you are taking Daypro for an extended period, your doctor should check your blood for anemia.

Daypro can prolong bleeding time. If you are taking a blood-thinning medication, use Daypro with caution.

Daypro may cause sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. Use sunscreens and wear protective clothing.

Do not use Daypro if you are planning to have surgery in the immediate future.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Daypro

If you take Daypro with certain other drugs, the effects of either medication could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Daypro with the following medications:

AspirinBeta-blocking blood pressure medications such as atenolol and propranololBlood thinners such as warfarinDigitalis and digoxinDiuretics such as amiloride and furosemideLithiumUlcer drugs such as cimetidine and ranitidine

Avoid alcoholic beverages while taking Daypro.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Daypro during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. Since the effects of Daypro on nursing infants are not known, tell your doctor if you are nursing or plan to nurse. If Daypro treatment is necessary for your health, your doctor may tell you to discontinue nursing until your treatment is finished.

Recommended dosage for Daypro

ADULTS

Your doctor will adjust the dose based on your needs.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

The usual daily dose is 1200 milligrams (two 600-milligram caplets) once a day.

Osteoarthritis

The usual starting dose for moderate to severe osteoarthritis is 1200 milligrams (two 600-milligram caplets) once a day.

The most you should take in a day is 1800 milligrams divided into smaller doses, or 26 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight, whichever is lower.

CHILDREN

The safety and efficacy of Daypro in children have not been determined.

Overdosage

If you take too much of any medication, it can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of Daypro overdose may include:Coma, drowsiness, fatigue, nausea, pain in the stomach, stomach and intestinal bleeding, vomiting

Acute kidney failure, high blood pressure, and a slowdown in breathing have occurred rarely.