Relafen (generic name nabumetone) is a medication used to manage the joint pain and inflammation in people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, a type of joint disease. According to Drugs.com, Relafen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that manipulates certain hormones in your body to decrease your rheumatoid arthritic symptoms.
Common Side Effects
According to MedlinePlus, Relafen's most common side effects include tinnitus (sensation of buzzing or ringing in your ears), diaphoresis (excessive sweating), dizziness and a headache. It can change your bowel movements and cause constipation, diarrhea and flatulence (gas). Other common side effects include mouth sores, dry mouth, and trouble sleeping.
Dangerous Side Effects
Drugs.com warns that Relafen can cause such harmful and potentially life-threatening side effects as chest pain, trouble breathing, hemoptysis (coughing up blood), vomiting blood and weight gain. It can also cause bloody or black stools, decreased urination, a fever, poor appetite, muscle weakness and a sore throat. These symptoms should not be ignored. Discontinue using Relafen and go to your local medical center to further investigate these symptoms.
Rare Side Effects
The National Library of Medicine reported that in a controlled clinical trial of 1,677 patients, fewer than 1 percent of that population experienced stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, liver failure and vasculitis (inflammation of your blood vessels). Relafen can also change your personality and cause depression, confusion and agitation. Other rare side effects include trouble seeing, thrombocytopenia (low platelet counts), photosensitivity (condition where your skin is sensitive to ultraviolet light) and kidney failure.
Concerns
Avoid using Relafen if you are allergic to aspirin or any other NSAIDs. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor to check whether your current medications belong to this class of medications. Dangerous side effects such as trouble breathing, hives and throat, facial or tongue swelling may result.
Drugs.com warns that taking Relafen during your last trimester of pregnancy can potentially harm your unborn infant. Tell your doctor whether you are pregnant.
According to MedlinePlus, you should tell your doctor whether you are taking such medications as lithium, benzapril and methotrexate. These drugs can interact with Relafen and cause lethal side effects.
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