Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Apo Oxaprozin.
Dizziness/headaches: Headaches, sometimes accompanied by dizziness or lightheadedness, may occur during treatment with oxaprozin. (These headaches usually occur early in the treatment.) Your doctor may recommend that you take a lower dose to reduce headaches and dizziness. If this does not work, your doctor may recommend that you stop taking oxaprozin. Avoid operating motor vehicles and doing other potentially hazardous activities until you determine the effect Apo Oxaprozin has on you.
Drowsiness/reduced awareness: Some people have reported headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness, and confusion while taking Apo Oxaprozin. Avoid operating motor vehicles and doing other potentially hazardous activities until you have determined the effect Apo Oxaprozin has on you.
Fluid and electrolyte balance: Fluid retention and edema (swelling, usually in the feet and lower legs) have been reported with use of Apo Oxaprozin. The risk may be higher in people who are recovering from surgery under general anesthesia, have Congestive Heart Failure, have high blood pressure, or have kidney disease. There is also a risk of high blood potassium with oxaprozin treatment. People most at risk are:
- seniors
- people with conditions such as Diabetes or kidney failure
- people who are taking beta-adrenergic blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, or some diuretics (water pills).
If you have any of these risk factors, discuss with your doctor how Apo Oxaprozin may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Apo Oxaprozin, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Gastrointestinal effects: Stomach ulcers, perforation, and bleeding from the stomach have been known to occur during therapy with oxaprozin. These complications can occur at any time, and are sometimes severe enough to require immediate medical attention. The risk of ulcers and bleeding is increased in people taking higher doses of oxaprozin for longer periods of time. Stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms or signs of stomach ulcers or bleeding in the stomach (black, tarry stools). These reactions can occur at any time during treatment without warning.
Heart problems: Like other NSAID medications, oxaprozin may increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and Blood Clots. The risk is greater with higher doses and long-term use.
Discuss with your doctor how Apo Oxaprozin may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Apo Oxaprozin, and whether any special monitoring is needed, if you have a condition that puts you at risk of heart problems, for example:
- Coronary Artery Disease
- diabetes
- heart failure
- high blood pressure
- High Cholesterol
- peripheral arterial disease
- reduced kidney function
Infection: Apo Oxaprozin may mask the signs of an infection, such as a fever.
Kidney function: Long-term use of oxaprozin may lead to a higher risk of reduced kidney function. This is most common for people who already have kidney disease, liver disease, or heart failure; for people who take diuretics (water pills); and for seniors.
Liver function: Apo Oxaprozin may cause liver problems. If you have a liver condition, you may need more frequent check-ups with your doctor. If you develop signs of a liver problem (such as yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, abdominal pain, or itchy skin), stop taking the medication and see your doctor as soon as possible.
Sun sensitivity: Apo Oxaprozin may make your skin more sensitive to the sun. While you are using Apo Oxaprozin, avoid excessive sun exposure, including tanning beds and sun lamps. If you experience sunburn with itching, swelling, and blistering, stop using Apo Oxaprozin and contact your doctor.
Pregnancy: Apo Oxaprozin should not be used during the third trimester of pregnancy. It should not be used during the first or second trimesters of pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Apo Oxaprozin, contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: Oxaprozin should not be used during breast-feeding because many NSAIDs have been shown to pass into breast milk.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Apo Oxaprozin have not been established for children. Oxaprozin is not recommended for children and adolescents under the age of 18 years.
Seniors: Seniors appear to have a higher risk of side effects. They should use the lowest effective dosage under close medical supervision.
