Dolobid

What is it?

A salicylate analgesic and anti-inflammatory drug available as tablets in two different strengths, all capsule-sjiaped and film-coated. Peach coloured tablets contain 250mg of diflunisal, marked MSD 675 and orange tablets contain 500mg of diflunisal, marked MSD 697.

Medical Uses

Acute and chronic pain, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Dosage

Adults, for pain, 1000mg as first dose then 500mg every 12 hours, to a maximum daily dose of 1500mg. For arthritis, 500-1000mg daily, in 1 or 2 doses and varying according to the response.

Special Care

Elderly persons, kidney or liver disease, heart failure, a history of gastro-intestinal ulcers or haemorrhage, history of bronchial asthma, tendency for fluid retention. Patients with coagulation (blood) defects should be monitored during treatment and cause of eye conditions established. Kidneys and liver to be monitored during long-term treatment.

Avoid Use

Children, pregnancy, breastfeeding, serious kidney disorders, active stomach ulcer or bleeding in gut, aspirin or anti-inflammatory-induced allergy or asthma.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Anticoagulants, indomethacin, codeine, aspirin, NSAIDs, antihypertensives, digoxin, methotrexate, frusemide, corticosteroids, quinolones, paracetamol, hydrochlorothiazide, lithium, mifepristone, antacids.

Known Side Effects

Diarrhoea, dyspepsia, headache, rash, tinnitus (ringing in ears), dizziness, gastrointestinal pain, tiredness, kidney effects, central nervous system effects, disturbance of vision.