Tiaprofenic Acid (pain reliever, NSAID)

Tiaprofenic acid is a generic drug that treats pain and inflammation. It is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

NSAIDs work by blocking the action of either or both the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes. These enzymes are responsible for converting arachidonic acid into prostaglandin, which is a group of substances that regulate many cellular processes such as platelet aggregation, vasodilation, gastric mucus secretion, and proinflammatory mediators.

Uses

What is tiaprofenic acid used for?

Tiaprofenic acid treats pain and inflammation due to:

• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis

How should I take tiaprofenic acid?

Read the directions on the packaging for complete information. Check the label and expiration date.

For oral dosage forms, swallow it whole without chewing, crushing, or dissolving it in liquid. Take it with meals to prevent gastric irritation.

How do I store tiaprofenic acid?

This product is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. 

There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before using tiaprofenic acid?

NSAIDs, including tiaprofenic acid, are associated with an increased risk of bleeding and gastric ulceration. This risk is further increased in older patients usually over 60 years of age, those taking blood thinners, and those with blood clotting disorders.

Some groups of people with conditions like asthma or allergic rhinitis may experience an exacerbation of symptoms after using NSAIDs.

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
• An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
• Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

NSAIDs are generally not recommended for use during pregnancy and is contraindicated for use during the 3^rd trimester. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as determined by your doctor.

Naproxen may be excreted in breast milk. This drug should be used while breastfeeding only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the child, as determined by your doctor.

A possible alternative for fever and pain relief is paracetamol.

Side effects

What side effects can occur when using tiaprofenic acid?

Like all drugs, Gaviscon may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Upset stomach
• Abdominal pain
• Indigestion
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Allergic reaction
• Bronchospasm
• Edema
• Eye irritation
• Photosensitivity
• Tinnitus
• Drowsiness

However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with tiaprofenic acid?

This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. 

Drugs with known interactions:

• Anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin)
• Antiplatelets (e.g. aspiriin)
• Corticosteroids
• Digoxin
• Lithium
• Ciclosporin
• Methotrexate
• Probenecid
• Antihypertensives
• Bisphosphonates
• Aminoglycosides
• Quinolones

If you experience an adverse drug interaction, inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Approaches include dose adjustment, drug substitution, or ending therapy.

Does food or alcohol interact with tiaprofenic acid?

This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Do not consume alcohol while taking this drug. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with tiaprofenic acid?

This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have, especially:

• Active bronchial asthma
• Uncontrolled hypertension
• Congestive heart failure (CHF)
• Other cardiovascular diseases
• Gastrointestinal diseases
  • Peptic ulcer disease (PUD)
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Conditions that require surgery
• Urinary tract disorders
• Prostatic disease
• Elderly patients over the age of 60

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

What is the dose for an adult?

• Take 600 mg per day in 2 to 3 divided doses.
• Dose adjustments:
  • Elderly: initiate with the lowest dose.
  • Renal/hepatic impairment: reduce the dose to 200 mg twice a day. Avoid in severe impairment.

What is the dose for a child?

The dosage has not been established in pediatric patients. It may be unsafe for your child. It is always important to fully understand the safety of the drug before using. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How is tiaprofenic acid available?

This drug is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Tablet 200 mg, 300 mg

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.

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