Diflunisal Information - Side Effects, Uses and Benefits

Diflunisal - Type of Drug - Some Interactions occurring with Diflunisal

Type of Drug:

Anti-inflammatory; analgesic (pain reliever).

How the Drug Works:

Diflunisal decreases inflammation and relieves pain by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. It is not a steroid or a narcotic.

Uses:

To relieve mild to moderate pain, inflammation, and rheumatoid arthritis and osteopathic pain.

Precautions:

Pregnancy: Safety for use during pregnancy has not been established. Use with caution during the first and second trimesters. Do not use during the third trimester.

Breastfeeding: Diflunisal appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before you begin breastfeeding.

Children: Safety and effectiveness have not been established. Use in children younger than 12 years of age is not recommended. Acetylsalicylic acid has been associated with Reye syndrome. Since diflunisal is a salicylic acid derivative, the possibility of its association with Reye syndrome cannot be excluded. Consult your doctor.

Drug Interactions:

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or if you are planning to take any over-the-counter or prescription medications or dietary supplements with diflunisal. Doses of one or both drugs may need to be modified or a different drug may need to be prescribed. The following drugs and drug classes interact with diflunisal:

Acetaminophen (eg, Tylenol)

Hydrochlorothiazide (eg, Hydro)

Antacids (eg, Tums) DIURIL)

Side Effects:

Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Many diflunisal users experience no, or minor, side effects. The frequency and severity of side effects depend on many factors including dose, duration of therapy, and individual susceptibility. Possible side effects include:

Digestive Tract: Stomach pain; gas; diarrhea; nausea; constipation; ulcers; indigestion; vomiting.

Nervous System: Headache; dizziness; nervousness; sleeplessness; confusion; fatigue or tiredness.

Skin: Rash; itching; sweating; sensitivity to light.

Other: Ringing in the ears or difficulty hearing; edema (fluid retention); swelling.

Guidelines for Use:

May cause stomach upset. Take with water, milk, or meals.

Chronic gastrointestinal upset or any signs of bleeding should be reported to your doctor.

Swallow tablets whole. Do not crush or chew.

Do not take aspirin or acetaminophen with diflunisal. Consult your doctor.

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If several hours have passed or if it is nearing time for the next dose, do not double the dose to catch up, unless advised by your doctor. If more than 1 dose is missed, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

May cause sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. Use sunscreens and wear protective clothing until tolerance is determined.