Nabumetone (By Mouth)

Nabumetone (na-BYOO-me-tone)

Treats pain caused by arthritis. Belongs to a class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Brand Name(s):

Relafen
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to nabumetone, aspirin, or any pain or arthritis medicines such as Advil®, Motrin®, Indocin®, Naprosyn® or Aleve®, Tolectin®, Daypro®, or Clinoril®. The reaction may have included wheezing or trouble breathing, hives, rash, or swelling in the face.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often.
• Take the medicine with a full glass of water.
• You may take nabumetone with food, milk, or antacids (such as Maalox® or Mylanta®) to help prevent an upset stomach.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the medicine as soon as possible, unless it is almost time for your next dose.
• Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the tablets at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking aspirin or blood thinners such as Coumadin®.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Check with your doctor before taking nabumetone if you have liver or kidney disease, high blood pressure, heart failure, blood disorders, or ulcers or other stomach problems.
• You should not use this medicine if you are breastfeeding. You may pass the medicine to your baby through your breastmilk.
• Talk with your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant. Nabumetone should not be taken during the last 3 months of a pregnancy.
• Ulcers and stomach bleeding are sometimes caused by this type of medicine. These problems can occur without warning signs. You may need to see your doctor for regular check-ups while taking this medicine.
• This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and cause a rash. Avoid spending long periods in sunlight. Protect your skin with sunscreen and clothing when outside. You should not use tanning booths or sunlamps.
• This medicine may make you dizzy. Be careful if you are driving or using machinery.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Rash, hives, or itching
• Wheezing or trouble breathing
• Swelling in the face or throat or around eyes
• Sudden decrease in amount of urine
• Bloody or black tarry stools
• Severe stomach pain, bloody vomit, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• Bloody, dark-colored, or cloudy urine
• Unusual bruising or bleeding
• Unexplained fever or sore throat
• Yellowing of skin or eyes

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Nausea, indigestion
• Diarrhea, gas, constipation
• Ringing in your ears
• Dizziness, headache
• Swelling in feet or ankles

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.