WARNING

Flurbiprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to relieve pain and inflammation. Like all medications, it carries risks, which include:

• Gastrointestinal Issues: NSAIDs like flurbiprofen can cause stomach irritation, ulcers, bleeding, and perforation, especially in long-term or high-dose use.
• Cardiovascular Risks: Long-term use of NSAIDs may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially in individuals with existing cardiovascular conditions.
• Kidney Damage: NSAIDs can impair kidney function, leading to fluid retention, high blood pressure, and even kidney failure, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney problems.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to flurbiprofen, ranging from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylaxis.
• Central Nervous System Effects: NSAIDs can rarely cause central nervous system side effects such as headaches, dizziness, and confusion.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Some individuals may experience hypersensitivity reactions including asthma exacerbations or other respiratory symptoms.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Flurbiprofen can interact with other medications, including blood thinners, certain antidepressants, and others, potentially leading to adverse effects or reduced effectiveness of either medication.

It’s important to use flurbiprofen as directed by a healthcare professional and to be aware of these potential risks, especially for individuals with pre-existing health conditions. If any concerning symptoms occur while taking flurbiprofen, medical advice should be sought promptly.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Flurbiprofen is prescribed primarily for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain-relieving), and antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties. It’s commonly used to treat various conditions including:

• Pain: Flurbiprofen is often prescribed for mild to moderate pain relief, such as headaches, dental pain, menstrual cramps, and musculoskeletal pain.
• Inflammation: It’s effective in reducing inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis (including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis), tendonitis, bursitis, and other inflammatory disorders.
• Fever: Flurbiprofen can also be used to reduce fever in patients with febrile conditions.

How should this medicine be used?

Flurbiprofen is typically available as oral tablets, and the dosage varies depending on the condition being treated and the individual’s response to the medication. It’s usually taken with food or milk to minimize the risk of gastrointestinal irritation. The usual recommended dosage for adults is 100 to 200 mg per day, divided into two to four doses. However, the specific dosage and duration of treatment should be determined by a healthcare professional based on the patient’s medical history and condition.

Other uses for this medicine

Flurbiprofen has been investigated for its potential use in conditions other than pain and inflammation. These may include:

• Treatment of ocular conditions: Flurbiprofen eye drops are used to treat eye inflammation and pain after cataract surgery.
• Alzheimer’s disease: Some studies have explored the use of Flurbiprofen in Alzheimer’s disease due to its potential to reduce amyloid-beta protein, a hallmark of the disease. However, further research is needed in this area.
• Dental pain: Flurbiprofen may be used to alleviate dental pain and inflammation.
• Topical application: Flurbiprofen may be formulated into topical gels or creams for localized pain relief.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Flurbiprofen, several special precautions should be followed:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially if you have a history of gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, asthma, or liver problems.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking, as flurbiprofen can interact with other drugs, including blood thinners, certain antidepressants, and others.
• Alcohol: Avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking flurbiprofen, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding and other gastrointestinal side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Flurbiprofen should be used with caution during pregnancy, especially during the third trimester, as it may harm the unborn baby or cause complications during delivery. It’s also not recommended during breastfeeding due to potential adverse effects on the infant.
• Gastrointestinal Effects: Flurbiprofen can increase the risk of gastrointestinal ulcers, bleeding, and perforation. Inform your doctor if you experience symptoms such as stomach pain, black or bloody stools, or vomiting blood.
• Kidney Function: Flurbiprofen can impair kidney function, so it should be used cautiously in individuals with pre-existing kidney problems.
• Cardiovascular Risk: Flurbiprofen may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially in individuals with existing cardiovascular conditions. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
• Allergic Reactions: If you have had allergic reactions to NSAIDs in the past, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or other medications, inform your healthcare provider before taking flurbiprofen.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and dosing recommendations carefully when using flurbiprofen or any other medication. If you experience any concerning symptoms or side effects while taking flurbiprofen, seek medical advice promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for Flurbiprofen, it’s generally recommended to take it with food or milk to minimize the risk of gastrointestinal irritation. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can help support overall health while taking this medication. There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Flurbiprofen, but individuals should avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and should adhere to any dietary guidelines provided by their healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Flurbiprofen, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. It’s important to maintain consistency with your dosing schedule to achieve optimal pain relief and reduce the risk of potential side effects. If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Flurbiprofen, like other NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), can cause a range of side effects. These can vary from mild to severe and may include:

• Gastrointestinal Effects: One of the most common side effects of Flurbiprofen is gastrointestinal irritation, which may manifest as stomach pain, nausea, indigestion, heartburn, or diarrhea. Long-term use or high doses can increase the risk of stomach ulcers, bleeding, and perforation.
• Cardiovascular Effects: Flurbiprofen may increase the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke, particularly in individuals with pre-existing heart disease or risk factors for heart disease.
• Kidney Damage: NSAIDs like Flurbiprofen can impair kidney function, leading to fluid retention, high blood pressure, and in severe cases, kidney failure.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Flurbiprofen, which can range from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylaxis. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Liver Damage: In rare cases, Flurbiprofen can cause liver damage or abnormal liver function tests.
• Central Nervous System Effects: Flurbiprofen can rarely cause central nervous system side effects such as headaches, dizziness, drowsiness, or confusion.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Some individuals may experience hypersensitivity reactions, including asthma exacerbations or other respiratory symptoms.
• Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Long-term use of Flurbiprofen can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, which may manifest as black, tarry stools or vomiting blood.
• Fluid Retention: NSAIDs like Flurbiprofen can cause fluid retention, leading to swelling of the legs, ankles, or feet.
• Skin Reactions: Rarely, Flurbiprofen may cause skin reactions such as blistering, peeling, or rash.

It’s essential to be aware of these potential side effects when taking Flurbiprofen and to promptly report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider. Additionally, if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications, discuss the risks and benefits of Flurbiprofen with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

When it comes to the storage and disposal of Flurbiprofen, here’s what you should know:

• Storage: Store Flurbiprofen at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Avoid storing it in the bathroom. Keep it out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Flurbiprofen properly. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for guidance on how to safely dispose of medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Flurbiprofen, take the following steps:

• Seek Medical Help: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or visiting the nearest emergency room.
• Poison Control: Contact your local poison control center or call the Poison Help hotline at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance on what to do next. They can provide information on managing the overdose and may advise you on whether further medical attention is necessary.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Instructions: Take Flurbiprofen exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or duration of treatment unless instructed to do so.
• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may need to monitor your response to Flurbiprofen and may perform periodic tests to check for any adverse effects, especially if you are taking it long-term or have underlying health conditions.
• Avoid Concomitant Use of NSAIDs: Do not take other NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen) concomitantly with Flurbiprofen unless specifically instructed by your healthcare provider, as this may increase the risk of side effects.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are taking Flurbiprofen, including dentists and surgeons, as it may interact with other medications or affect certain medical procedures.
• Symptoms of Serious Side Effects: Be vigilant for symptoms of serious side effects such as stomach pain, chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, or unusual bleeding, and seek medical attention if they occur.

By being aware of these storage, disposal, emergency procedures, and other important information, you can use Flurbiprofen safely and effectively under the guidance of your healthcare provider.