PATIENT INSTRUCTIONS: ANTI INFLAMMATORY MEDICATION

You have been prescribed a medication known as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). This drug is a powerful pain medicine  It acts to reduce swelling and to reduce inflammation in muscles, tendons, and joints. This medicine works best when it is taken regularly for a specific duration of time.

Any medicine of this type may have side effects, which are usually not a problem if the medication is taken properly. Common reactions include indigestion, nausea or diarrhea. The best way to avoid these problems is to take the medication after eating. If problems such as these occur despite taking the medication with food, discontinue the medication and contact the office.  Your provider will determine if a change is medication is in order.  While you are taking this medication, you should not take other anti-inflammatory medications, including aspirin. Tylenol or other medications containing acetaminophen are generally safe.

This type of medicine is not a narcotic or a sedative.  It does not normally cause sleepiness or problems with concentration. However, some people may feel sleepy or have difficulty concentrating with this type of medicine. If you feel you are experiencing this side effect, please discontinue the medication and contact the office for further instructions.

Although uncommon, a more serious reaction to NSAID medication is a stomach ulcer and bleeding. If you have a history of bleeding/ulcer symptoms, do not take this medication.

If you experience bleeding/ulcer symptoms such as vomiting blood or black material or having bloody or black stools, STOP taking the medication and contact our office immediately for further instructions.

A small number of people taking these medications for a prolonged time will have reactions involving their blood or kidneys. If you regularly take this type of medication for more than 3 months, you should inform your primary care provider to have tests of your blood and urine.

For the reasons of medical safety, our practice does not provide these medications for more than one month’s duration.  If you require these medications as long term treatment for your orthopedic needs, we recommended that you contact your primary care provider to further discuss these types of medications and the risks/benefits as they pertain to your personal health.

*It is always strongly recommended that you consult with your primary care provider prior to taking any new medications prescribed to you to verify its safety for your health.