SALSALATE - ORAL (Disalcid) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

SALSALATE-ORAL Index

salsalate - oral, Disalcid

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GENERIC NAME: SALSALATE - ORAL (SAL-suh-late)

BRAND NAME(S): Disalcid

WARNING: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including salsalate) may rarely increase the risk for a heart attack or stroke. This effect does not apply to low-dose aspirin. (See Drug Interactions section.) The risk may be greater in people with heart disease or increased risk for heart disease (e.g., due to high blood pressure, diabetes), or with longer use. This drug should not be taken right before or after heart bypass surgery (CABG). Also, this drug may infrequently cause serious (rarely fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. This bleeding can occur without warning symptoms at any time during treatment.

Stop taking this medication and seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following rare but very serious side effects: chest pain, severe dizziness, weakness on one side of the body, sudden vision changes, slurred speech, black stools, persistent stomach/abdominal pain, vomit that looks like coffee grounds. (See also Precautions section.)

Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the risks and benefits of treatment with this medication.

USES: Salsalate is used to relieve pain from various conditions. It also reduces pain, swelling, and joint stiffness from arthritis. This medication is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth, usually 2 to 3 times daily with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) or as directed by your doctor. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this drug. If stomach upset occurs while taking this medication, take it with food, milk, or an antacid.Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. To reduce your risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects, take this medication at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or take it for a longer time than prescribed. For ongoing conditions such as arthritis, continue taking this medication as directed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor or pharmacist.For certain conditions (e.g., arthritis), it may take up to 2 weeks of taking this drug regularly until you get the full benefit.If you are taking this drug "as needed" (not on a regular schedule), remember that pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain occur. If you wait until the symptoms have worsened, the medicine may not work as well.Inform your doctor if your symptoms persist or worsen or if you develop new symptoms.