Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

Use this medicine exactly as ordered by your doctor. 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. To do so 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 or pharmacist if you have any questions.

To lessen stomach upset, you may take this medicine with food, milk, or antacid unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

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 osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis:
      • Adults—At first, 75 milligrams (mg) 3 times a day or 50 mg 4 times a day. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed. However the dose is usually not more than 300 mg a day.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    • For mild to moderate pain or menstrual cramps:
      • Adults—25 to 50 milligrams (mg) every 6 to 8 hours as needed. Some people may need to take as much as 75 mg every 6 to 8 hours. Doses larger than 75 mg are not likely to give better relief.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
  • For oral dosage form (extended-release capsules):
    • For osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis:
      • Adults—200 milligrams (mg) once a 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.

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

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.