Warnings & Recalls for Arthrotec
Arthrotec and Pregnancy
Arthrotec has been classified as an FDA
pregnancy Category X medicine and should not be taken by a woman who is pregnant. Using Arthrotec as a treatment during the first trimester of pregnancy may increase the risk of
birth defects or
fetal death. This medicine may also cause the baby to be born
prematurely. Patients should have a pregnancy test 14 days before beginning use of Arthrotec and utilize an effective form of birth control while taking this medication. If you become pregnant while taking Arthrotec, notify your doctor
immediately. Arthrotec can transfer through breatmilk and harm a nursing baby. Mothers
should not breastfeed while taking Arthrotec.
Risks of Taking Arthrotec
Arthrotec may increase the risk of
gastrointestinal bleeding or
perforation (creation of a hole in the lining). This medicine may also cause
circulatory disorders which can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
General Information
Do not take Arthrotec if you are
allergic to diclofenac or misoprotol. Before taking Arthrotec,
let your doctor know about your medical history. Tell your healthcare provider about any of the following you may have:
- any allergies
- any previous heart conditions you may have had such as heart failure, heart attack or heart disease
- high blood pressure
- a history of a stroke
- if you have ever had a blood clot, a bleeding or blood clotting disorder, stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding
- liver disease or kidney disease
- nasal polyps (sac-like growths in the nose)
- any breathing problems such as asthma
- porphyria (a genetic disorder in which hemoglobin is not properly made)
- a heart bypass surgery (Arthrotec should not be taken around the time of this procedure)
Be sure to tell your doctor if you
smoke or consume over
3 alcoholic drinks per day; it may not be safe for you to take Arthrotec if these conditions apply.
Arthrotec Interactions
Many medications can affect your use of Arthrotec. Let your doctor know if you are taking any other medicines, epecially:
- antacids
- other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- anticoagulants and blood thinners
- medicines to prevent transplant rejection
- drugs for congestive heart failure
- diuretics or water pills
- diabetes treatments
- lithium
- psoriasis medications
- anti-convulsants and seizure medicines
- steroids
- certain antifungals
- angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors)
Arthrotec Treatment and Use
Arthrotec | diclofenac and misoprostol is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for treating and reducing symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in those who have a high chance for developing ulcers of the stomach or intestines.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Arthrotec in December 1997.
How Does Arthrotec Work?
Arthrotec works through the use of diclofenac and misoprostol contained in the medicine. Diclofenac prevent prostoglandins (which account for swelling, feelings of pain and joint inflammation) from being produced. Misoprostol is a prostaglandin which helps to reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach. This prevent further damage to the stomach and decreases the risk of ulcers.
How to take Arthrotec
Arthrotec is available in tablet form to be taken orally in doses of 50mg/200g and 70mg/200g. Generally, Arthrotec is recommended to be taken in 50mg/200g three times daily or in 75mg/200g twice daily. Take Arthrotec only as instructed by your doctor. Dosage amounts vary depending on the patient of the condition and their sensitivity to the medicine.
No more than 800mg/200g should be taken in 24 hours.
