Arthrotec

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Arthrotec

If Arthrotec 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 Arthrotec with the following:

• Aspirin
• Blood pressure medications such as diltiazem hydrochloride, enalapril maleate, nifedipine, and propranolol hydrochloride
• Cyclosporine
• Digoxin
• Diuretics
• Glipizide
• Glyburide
• Insulin
• Lithium
• Magnesium-containing antacids
• Methotrexate
• Phenobarbital
• Prednisolone
• Warfarin

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Arthrotec must be strictly avoided during pregnancy. If you are in your child-bearing years, your doctor will have you take your first dose on the second or third day of your menstrual period to be sure you're not pregnant. Use reliable contraception for the duration of your treatment.

Because Arthrotec appears in breast milk, your doctor may have you stop breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

Recommended dosage for Arthrotec

ADULTS

Osteoarthritis

The recommended dose is 50 milligrams 3 times daily.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

The recommended dose is 50 milligrams 3 or 4 times daily.

If you can not tolerate the recommended dosage, your doctor can prescribe a dose of 50 or 75 milligrams twice daily. However, such lower dosages are less effective at preventing ulcers.

Your doctor may prescribe misoprostol in addition to Arthrotec for better ulcer protection.

CHILDREN

The safety and effectiveness of Arthrotec have not been established in children below the age of 18.

Overdosage

If you suspect an overdose of Arthrotec, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of Arthrotec overdose may include:
  Abdominal pain, confusion, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, digestive discomfort, drowsiness, fever, lack of muscle tone, low blood pressure, tremors, seizures, slow heartbeat, throbbing heartbeat, vomiting