Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

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

This medicine should come with a medication guide. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor if you have any questions.

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.

It is best to take this medicine on an empty stomach. However, if it upsets your stomach, you may take this medicine with an antacid that does not contain sodium bicarbonate.

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 forms (capsules or tablets):
    • For osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis:
      • Adults—At first, 400 milligrams (mg) three times a day. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed up to a total dose of 1800 mg per day.
      • Children 2 years of age and older—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. At first, 20 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight per day, divided into smaller amounts that are taken three or four times a day. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed up to 30 mg per kg of body weight per day.
      • Children younger than 2 years of age—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.

Portions of this document last updated: April 01, 2024

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