Diflunisal (By Mouth)

Diflunisal (dye-FLOO-ni-sal)

Treats pain caused by arthritis. Belongs to a class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Brand Name(s):

Dolobid
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to diflunisal, aspirin, or other pain and arthritis medicines such as Motrin®, Naprosyn® or Aleve®, Tolectin®, or Clinoril®. The reaction may have included wheezing or trouble breathing, hives, rash, or swelling in the face.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.
• Swallow tablets whole with a full glass of water.
• You may take the medicine with food or milk so it does not upset your stomach.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for your next regular dose, wait until then to take your medicine and skip the missed dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• You should not use this medicine with aspirin or products that contain aspirin, naproxen (Aleve®), or ibuprofen (Advil® or Motrin®) .
• Avoid drinking alcohol while you are taking this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking Coumadin®, HydroDIURIL®, Esidrix®, or acetaminophen (Tylenol®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Talk with your doctor before taking this medicine if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, blood disorders, ulcers or other stomach problems.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Ulcers and stomach bleeding are sometimes caused by this type of medicine. These problems can happen without warning signs. You may need to see your doctor for regular check-ups while taking this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Severe rash, hives, or itching
• Rapid swelling of face or around eyes
• Chest tightness, wheezing or trouble breathing
• Severe stomach pain
• Bloody or black stools, bloody vomit
• Fever of unknown cause, unusual bruising
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Decreased amount of urine

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Stomach cramps or discomfort, nausea
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Bloated feeling
• Dizziness or drowsiness
• Increased sensitivity of skin to sunlight
• Swelling of feet or legs or weight gain
• Ringing in ears

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.