Oxaprozin

Overview

Daypro is a pain reliever used to treat osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Like other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, it reduces swelling and inflammation as well as alleviating pain.

Side Effects and Interactions

The most common side effects of Daypro involve the gastrointestinal tract. They include nausea, indigestion, diarrhea, and constipation.

Some people may develop ulcers and intestinal bleeding while taking Daypro. Occasionally these problems can occur without obvious symptoms and lead to a life-threatening crisis due to perforation of the stomach lining.

Older people appear to be more susceptible to this problem and should be monitored carefully.

Warning signs include weight loss, persistent indigestion, a feeling of fullness after moderate meals, dark or tarry stools, anemia and unusual fatigue.

Home stool tests such as Hemoccult or Fleet Detecatest may provide an early indication of bleeding.

Other side effects to watch for include rash, drowsiness, sleep problems, depression, ringing in the ears, or urinary frequency and pain.

Lightheadedness, difficulty concentrating, and confusion are possible, so do not drive if you become impaired.

Less common reactions may include anaphylaxis (swelling, difficulty breathing, often with rash or hives), which calls for immediate medical attention.

Palpitations, blurred vision, changes in weight and changes in blood pressure have been reported rarely. Report any symptoms to your physician promptly.

Daypro can affect both the kidney and liver, so periodic blood tests to monitor the function of these organs is important.

Some people become sensitive to sunlight while on Daypro, with a severe burn or rash resulting, so use an effective sunscreen, stay covered or avoid the sun.

This medication can interact with certain other drugs, including aspirin and alcohol.

Daypro may blunt the effectiveness of blood pressure medicines such as beta-blockers like Corgard or Tenormin, and possibly ACE inhibitors like Capoten, Vasotec or Zestril.

Because it has the potential to cause GI bleeding, Daypro could be dangerous in combination with the blood thinner Coumadin.

Check with both your doctor and your pharmacist before taking Daypro in combination with any other drugs.

Special Precautions

People who are allergic to aspirin or other anti-inflammatory agents should avoid Daypro.

Signs of allergy include breathing difficulties, rash, fever, or a sudden drop in blood pressure and require immediate medical attention.

Taking the Medicine

Because Daypro can be hard on the digestive tract, it may be taken with food to reduce stomach irritation.

This offers no guarantee of safety, however.