Why is Relafen prescribed?
Relafen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is used to relieve the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis).
Most important fact about Relafen
You should have frequent checkups with your doctor if you take Relafen regularly. Ulcers or internal bleeding can occur with or without warning.
How should you take Relafen?
Relafen can be taken with or without food. Take it exactly as prescribed.
--If you miss a dose...
Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take a double dose.
--Storage instructions...
Keep Relafen in the container it came in, tightly closed, and away from moist places and direct light. It can be stored at room temperature.
What side effects may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine whether it is safe for you to continue taking Relafen.
• More common side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, fluid retention, gas, headache, indigestion, itching, nausea, rash, ringing in ears
Why should Relafen not be prescribed?
Do not take Relafen if you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Relafen, or if you have had asthma attacks, hives or other allergic reactions caused by Relafen, aspirin, or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Special warnings about Relafen
Stomach and intestinal ulcers can occur without warning. Remember to get regular checkups.
Make sure the doctor knows if you have kidney or liver disease. Relafen should be used with caution.
This drug can cause fluid retention and swelling. It should be used with caution if you have congestive heart failure or high blood pressure.
Relafen can cause increased sensitivity to sunlight.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Relafen
If Relafen is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Relafen with blood-thinning drugs such as Coumadin and aspirin.
Other drugs with which Relafen could possibly interact include:

Diuretics such as HydroDIURIL and Lasix
Lithium (Eskalith)
Methotrexate
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of Relafen during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Relafen may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Relafen is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with Relafen is finished.
Recommended dosage
ADULTS
The usual starting dose is 1000 milligrams taken as a single dose. Dosage may be increased up to 2000 milligrams per day, taken once or twice a day.
CHILDREN
The safety and effectiveness of Relafen in children have not been established.
Overdosage
Overdoses of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Relafen have been known to cause stomach bleeding, elevated blood pressure, kidney failure, impaired breathing, and coma, though these effects are rare.
• Warning signs of overdose include:
Drowsiness,, lack of energy, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain
If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.