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|Actron

Actron

Generic name: Ketoprofen
Brand names: Oruvail, Orudis KT, Actron, Orudis

Why is Actron prescribed?

Actron, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, is used to relieve the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis). It is also used to relieve mild to moderate pain, as well as menstrual pain.

Oruvail, an extended-release form of the drug, is used to treat the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis over the long term, not severe attacks that come on suddenly.

Actron and Actron KT are over-the-counter forms of the drug. They are used to relieve minor aches and pains associated with the common cold, headache, toothache, muscle aches, backache, minor arthritis, and menstrual cramps. They are also used to reduce fever.

Most important fact about Actron

You should have frequent check-ups with your doctor if you take Actron regularly. Ulcers or internal bleeding can occur without warning.

How should you take Actron?

To minimize side effects, your doctor may recommend that you take Actron with food, an antacid, or milk.

If you are using Actron for arthritis, it should be taken regularly.

Actron and Oruvail should not be taken together.

Actron and Actron KT should be taken with a full glass of water or other fluid. Do not use them for more than 3 days for fever or 10 days for pain.

--If you miss a dose...

If you take Actron on a regular schedule, take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container. Protect Oruvail capsules from direct light and excessive heat and humidity.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Actron.

• More common side effects may include:
  Abdominal pain, changes in kidney function, constipation, diarrhea, dreams, fluid retention, gas, headache, inability to sleep, indigestion, nausea, nervousness

Why should Actron not be prescribed?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Actron, or if you have had asthma attacks, hives, or other allergic reactions caused by aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, you should not take Actron. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

Special warnings about Actron

Remember that stomach ulcers and bleeding can occur without warning.

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

If you are taking Actron for an extended period of time, your doctor will check your blood for anemia.

This drug can increase water retention. Use with caution if you have heart disease or high blood pressure.

Make sure your doctor knows what other conditions you have and what other drugs you are taking.

Check with your doctor before taking Actron if the painful area is red or swollen. Also check with your doctor if, after you have started taking Actron, your symptoms continue or get worse, new symptoms appear, or you have stomach pain.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Actron

If Actron is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Actron with the following:

Aspirin
Blood thinners such as Coumadin
Diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL)
Lithium (Lithonate)
Methotrexate
Probenecid (the gout medication Benemid)

Actron can prolong bleeding time. If you are taking blood-thinning medication, use Actron cautiously.

Do not combine pain relievers without asking your doctor.

If you usually have 3 or more alcoholic drinks a day, ask your doctor about taking pain relievers.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Actron during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is particularly important not to use this product during the last 3 months of pregnancy unless your doctor has told you to; its use may cause problems in your baby or during delivery. Actron may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Actron is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with Actron is finished.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis

The starting dose of Actron is 75 milligrams 3 times a day or 50 milligrams 4 times a day; for Oruvail, 200 milligrams taken once a day. The most you should take in a day is 300 milligrams of Actron or 200 milligrams of Oruvail. Some side effects, such as headache or upset stomach, increase in severity as the dose gets higher.

Mild to Moderate Pain and Menstrual Pain

The usual dose of Actron is 25 to 50 milligrams every 6 to 8 hours as needed.

Smaller people, older people, and those with kidney or liver disease need smaller doses of Actron. Doses above 75 milligrams have no additional effect.

The usual dose of Actron or Actron KT is 1 tablet or caplet (12.5 milligrams) every 4 to 6 hours. If you get no relief in 1 hour, you may take another tablet or caplet. Do not take more than 2 tablets or caplets in a 4 to 6-hour period. Do not take more than 6 tablets or caplets each 24 hours.

CHILDREN

Not for use in children under 16 years of age, unless recommended by a doctor.

OLDER ADULTS

Dosage may be lower.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Actron, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of Actron overdose may include:
  Breathing difficulty, coma, convulsions, drowsiness, high blood pressure, kidney failure, low blood pressure, nausea, sluggishness, stomach and intestinal bleeding, stomach pain, vomiting