Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

For safe and effective use of this medicine, do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time than ordered by your doctor. Using too much of this medicine may increase the chance of unwanted effects, especially in elderly patients.

This medicine comes with a Medication Guide. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

To lessen stomach upset, you may take this medicine with food or milk. .

Swallow the tablet whole. Do not break, crush, divide, or chew it. .

When used for severe or continuing arthritis, this medicine must be taken regularly as ordered by your doctor in order for it to help you. This medicine usually begins to work within one week, but in severe cases up to two weeks or even longer may pass before you begin to feel better. Also, several weeks may pass before you feel the full effects of this medicine. .

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For oral dosage form (capsules):
    • For mild to moderate pain:
      • Adults—200 milligrams (mg) every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor. .
    • For rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis:
      • Adults—At first, 400 to 600 mg three or four times a day. Your doctor may increase or decrease your dose as needed. However, the dose usually is not more than 3200 mg per day.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor. .

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.