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Sulindac

Sulindac

Sulindac is a prescription used for the treatment of;

1. Osteoarthritis

This is the most common form of arthritis which affects millions of people. It happens when the defensive cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time. Although this condition can damage any joint, it most commonly affects joints in your knees, hands, hips, and spine. The symptoms of this condition can usually be managed, though the damage to joints can’t be reversed. Keeping a good weight, staying active, and some treatments might slow the progression of the disease. It may as well help improve pain and joint function. Osteoarthritis symptoms frequently progress slowly and get worse over time. Signs and symptoms may include:

  • Stiffness
  • Pain
  • Loss of flexibility
  • Tenderness
  • Bone spurs
  • Grating sensation
  • Swelling 

2. Rheumatoid arthritis

This is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect more than just your joints. For some people, it can damage a wide variety of body systems. The inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis is what can damage other parts of the body also. Primary rheumatoid arthritis is likely to disturb first your smaller joints. It is mainly the joints that are attached to your fingers, hands, and toes to your feet.

 Signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis may include:

  • Warm, tender, and swollen joints
  • Fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite
  • Joint stiffness that is usually worse in the mornings and after inactivity 

3. Acute gout

This condition is characterized by sudden and severe attacks of pain, swelling, and tenderness in the joints. An attack of gout can happen suddenly. It may be waking you up in the middle of the night with the sensation that your big toe is on fire. The affected joint is swollen and hot. It is so tender as well that even the weight of the sheet on it may seem intolerable. The symptoms of this condition may come and go. Some signs and symptoms of gout may include:

  • Lingering discomfort
  • Intense joint pain
  • Limited range of motion 
  • Inflammation and redness 

Sulindac is in the class of medications called known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). This lessens the swelling, pain, and joint stiffness from arthritis. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved this prescription. Sulindac comes as a tablet with dosage strength of 200 mg for oral use. 

How does Sulindac work?

Sulindac works by blocking the action of a substance in the body called cyclo-oxygenase (COX). COX is involved in the creation of several chemicals in the body one of those is called prostaglandins. These are made by the body in reaction to injury and definite illnesses or diseases and cause swelling, inflammation, and pain. Sulindac blocks the production of these prostaglandins and is therefore effective at reducing pain and inflammation. 

The prostaglandins are a group of lipids made at sites of damage or infection that are involved in dealing with illness or injury. They control processes such as blood flow, inflammation, the formation of blood clots, and the induction of labor. 

How to use Sulindac?

Sulindac is to be taken usually twice a day or as directed by your doctor. The tablet is to be taken by mouth. Take this medication with a full glass of water. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking Sulindac. You may take each dose either right after meals, with food or with antacids. It may help you prevent an upset stomach. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to the treatment. To lessen the risk of side effects, use this drug at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible length of time. You should not increase your dose or take more often than recommended. 

In certain conditions, it may take 1 to 2 weeks before the full benefits take effect when this medication is taken regularly. Let your doctor know if your condition does not improve or if it gets worse. Swallow the drug as a whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, break, or chew the tablets. Remember to take it at the same time and in the same way each day. If you missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and follow your regular schedule. 

What are the side effects of Sulindac?

Common side effects:

  • Stomach pain
  • Heartburn
  • Upset stomach
  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Bloating
  • Gas
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Nervousness 
  • Headache 
  • Dry mouth
  • Skin itching or rash
  • Increased sweating 
  • Dry mouth
  • Blurred vision
  • Runny nose
  • Ringing in your ears 

Tell your doctor right away if these side effects occur:

  • Sudden or unexplained weight gain
  • Swelling of the hands or feet
  • Mental/mood changes
  • Unusual tiredness
  • Difficult or painful swallowing

If there are other side effects occur that are not on the list, let your doctor know. 

Warnings and Precautions

  • Sulindac should be used with caution in elderly people, those with a history of disorders affecting the stomach, people with decreased kidney functions, or liver functions. 
  • For people with heart failure, high blood pressure, heart disease, and disease of the blood vessels in and around the brain, this medication should be sued carefully. 
  • This is not recommended for use in people with active peptic ulcers, severe heart failure, severely decreased kidney function, or severe liver disease. 
  • Inform your doctor if you have an allergic reaction to this medication. Tell as well if you have any allergies. This drug may have an ingredient that causes an allergic reaction. 
  • If you experience any changes in your vision while having this treatment, you should tell your doctor. 
  • Certain medicines should not be used during breastfeeding or pregnancy. However, other medicines may be safely used in breastfeeding or pregnancy providing the benefits to the mother outweighs the risks to the unborn baby. Always tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.
  • If there any signs of overdose or allergic reaction, call for medical help right away. 
  • Always keep all your medications far from the reach of the children.