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Generic Name: Oxaprozin
Brand Name(s):
Information updated: April 1, 2000
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.
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Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist. Teresa Graedon holds a doctorate in medical anthropology and is a nutrition expert. Their syndicated radio show can be heard on public radio.
© 2000