Sometimes, the pain we experience in our bodies and the swelling in our joints can be unbearable, right? At times like these, a doctor may prescribe a painkiller for you. Today, we are talking about a special type of medicine that is given for mild to moderate pain, swelling, and conditions like arthritis. Think of this as advice from a trusted friend.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, this is a drug that controls the chemical processes in your body that cause pain and swelling. Medically speaking, it belongs to a group of drugs called NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs). That is, drugs that reduce inflammation that do not contain steroids. This drug is used to reduce pain, swelling, and sometimes fever.
Things you should tell your doctor before taking this medicine:
It is very important that your doctor knows your complete medical history before prescribing this medication. This medication may interact with certain medical conditions. Therefore, if you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to tell your doctor about it.
| Your situation | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| Asthma | For some asthma patients, this class of medication may worsen symptoms. |
| A history of stomach ulcers or bleeding | This medication increases the risk of stomach ulcers or bleeding. |
| Kidney or liver disease | The dosage may need to be adjusted because the medicine can affect these organs. |
| Heart Disease | This medication should be given with caution to those with a history of heart disease. |
| Drinking more than 3 alcoholic beverages per day | The combination of alcohol and this medication greatly increases the risk of stomach bleeding. |
| Being pregnant or expecting a baby | This medication is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the last three months. |
| Being a breastfeeding mother | It is important to inform the doctor, as parts of the medicine can pass to the baby through breast milk. |
| Allergies to other medicines, foods or substances | If you are allergic to aspirin or other painkillers, also mention that. |
The correct way to use the medicine
- Take this medicine with a glass of water .
- If you experience stomach upset or heartburn, take the medicine with or after a meal .
- Take your medicine at the prescribed time and at the prescribed intervals. Don't take it whenever you feel like it.
- Never take more than the amount prescribed by your doctor (overdose).
Special instructions for the elderly and children: People over the age of 65 may feel the effects of this medicine a little stronger. Therefore, they may need a lower dose. Also, if this medicine is given to children, it should be done only on medical advice.
What to do if you miss a dose and drink too much?
If you miss a dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time.
Overdose: If you think you have taken too much medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice. Do not take this lightly.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
This is a very important part. While you are taking this medicine, taking some other medicines can cause serious side effects. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking (including vitamins, herbal remedies).
| Type of medicine | Risk |
|---|---|
| Never take these together. | |
| Ketorolac (another strong painkiller) | The risk of stomach bleeding is very high. |
| Medicines that prevent blood clotting (e.g. Warfarin) | Excessively increases the risk of bleeding. |
| Methotrexate, Probenecid | Toxic conditions can occur in the body. |
| Seek medical advice as this medication may cause problems. | |
| Other NSAIDs (e.g. Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Diclofenac) | Increases the risk of stomach upset and bleeding. |
| Alcohol | Increases the risk of stomach bleeding. |
| Diabetes medication | Blood sugar levels may drop unexpectedly. |
| Steroid pills (e.g. Prednisone) | Increases the risk of stomach ulcers. |
Other things to remember when taking medication
- Risk of stomach bleeding: This is the most important thing. This medicine can cause stomach ulcers and bleeding at any time without any warning . The risk is much higher if you smoke or drink alcohol. Therefore, it is wise to completely avoid these habits while taking this medicine.
- Drowsiness and dizziness: You may feel drowsy and dizzy. Therefore, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
- Do not take other painkillers: Do not take other painkillers that you can buy at the pharmacy, such as Ibuprofen or Naproxen, without asking your doctor.
Let's also know about the side effects.
Like all medications, this one can have side effects. Some are serious, some are common. The most important thing is to act quickly if you notice anything unusual.
| If you experience these symptoms, see a doctor immediately! | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Bleeding signs | Black tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, dark red/brown urine, and small red/purple spots on the skin. |
| Symptoms of kidney damage | Decreased urine output, swelling of the ankles, hands, and feet. |
| Symptoms of liver damage | Pain in the upper right side of the abdomen, loss of appetite, yellowing of the eyes/skin, dark yellow/brown urine. |
| Ringing in ears | If you keep hearing a "ringing" sound in your ears. |
| It's usually not serious, but if it persists, tell your doctor. | |
| Heartburn | Vomiting, nausea, stomach discomfort. |
Take-Home Message
- Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor about all other illnesses you have and all other medicines you are taking.
- Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by the doctor, in the right amount and at the right time.
- Avoid drinking alcohol and smoking while taking this medication, as it greatly increases the risk of stomach bleeding.
- Avoid taking other painkillers like Ibuprofen and Diclofenac with this without medical advice.
- If you experience any severe side effects, such as black stools or vomit that looks like coffee grounds, seek medical advice immediately.
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