Dolobid Side Effects, Overdose and Pregnancy Information

Main ingredient in Dolobid is Diflunisal. Dolobid is a Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs). Dolobid is used for to relieve the pain and inflammation of the rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, treatment of menstrual pain, and relief of mild to moderate pain, migraine and to reduce fever. Dolobid works by blocking and reducing the level of prostaglandis. Prostaglandins is a chemical produced in the body in response to injury and certain diseases and conditions and is responsible for causing inflammation, pain and fever. Relief from pain and fever usually comes within an hour of taking Dolobid; however, anti-inflammatory effects could take days or even weeks to become apparent. Dolobid is available over-the-counter and with prescription.

Dolobid Side Effects

Common side effects of Dolobid may include, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, dizziness, fluid retention and swelling, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, nervousness, rash, and vomiting. Rare side effects of Dolobid may include, abdominal bleeding, blood in urine, blurred vision, changes in heartbeat, confusion, depression, dry eyes, hives, inability to sleep, kidney or liver damage, severe allergic reactions, shortness of breath, sleepiness, stomach ulcer, vomiting blood, painful urination.

Ulcers or internal bleeding can happen especially when Dolobid is used for long time or in large doses.

Dolobid Caution

Avoid taking Dolobid if you are sensitive or allergic to aspirin, or if you have asthma.

Inform your physician any drug reactions that you have experienced with Dolobid in the past.

Drinking alcohol increases the side effects of Dolobid especially bleeding.

Do not use more than the dosage prescribed by your physician.

Taking Dolobid with blood pressure medicines such as beta-blockers and diuretics lowers their effectiveness.

Peptic ulcers and bleeding can occur without warning when using Dolobid.

Dolobid should be used with caution if you have kidney or liver disease.

Do not take aspirin or any other anti-inflammatory drugs while taking Dolobid unless advised by your physician.

If you have a severe allergic reaction from Dolobid, seek medical help right away.

If you are taking blood-thinning medication such as warfarin, Dolobid may extend bleeding time.

Dolobid should be taken with food to avoid stomach irritation.

The smallest effective dose of Dolobid should be used for the shortest time possible to relieve the symptoms. If symptoms persist despite treatment, seek medical advice from your physician or pharmacist.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) such as Dolobid may be linked with a small increase in the risk of a heart attack or stroke. The risk is associated with high doses and prolonged use of Dolobid.

Dolobid should be used with caution in seniors, people with history of disorders of stomach or intestines such as Crohn's disease or colitis decreased kidney or liver functions, heart failure, high blood pressure (hypertension), angina or history of heart attack, disease of the blood vessels in and around the brain, history of stroke or mini stroke, poor circulation, diabetes, blood clotting disorders, and asthma.

Dolobid and Pregnancy

Dolobid may affect the heart of the developing fetus. If you are pregnant especially the last half of the pregnancy or might become pregnant, you should consult your physician or gynecologist before taking Dolobid.

Dolobid may pass into breast milk that could affect the heart of the baby. Nursing mothers should bottle feed while taking Dolobid.

Dolobid Doses

ADULTS: The starting dosage is 500 to 1000mg a day. After that 250-500mg every 8-12 hours, not to exceed 1500mg/day.

CHILDREN Consult your physician before giving Dolobid to children.

Dolobid Interactions

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, including vitamins and herbs.

Dolobid should not be taken in combination with other painkillers such as Aspirin or ibuprofen, as this increases the risk of side effects on the stomach and intestines. Other COX-2 inhibitors should also be avoided for the same reason.

There may be an increased risk of ulceration or bleeding in the stomach if Dolobid is taken with corticosteroids or with the following drugs:

Anti-blood-clotting (anticoagulant) drugs
Anti-platelet drugs
SSRI antidepressants
Check with your physician before combining Dolobid with the following:

Blood pressure drugs such as ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers
Blood thinners
Lithium
Diuretics
Methotrexate

Do not combine Dolobid with herbs like Garlic, Ginkgo and Ginseng.

Dolobid Overdose

Symptoms of Dolobid overdose may include acute depression (crying spell), abdominal pain, short breath, drowsiness, irregular heartbeat, kidney failure, low blood pressure, nausea, seizures, and vomiting and even death. In case of an Dolobid overdose, seek medical attention right away.

If you miss a dose of Dolobid, take it as soon as you can. However, if it is just about time for your next dose, skip the one you forgot and go on with your regular schedule. Never take a double dose of Dolobid.

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