This medication description is not meant for treatment prescription without the intervention of a specialist.

Common Uses

Combaren is nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to relieve the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis), and ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis and stiffness of the spine). It is also prescribed for immediate relief of pain and menstrual discomfort.

How to Take

The usual dose for adults is 100 to 150 milligrams a day, divided into smaller doses of 50 milligrams 2 or 3 times a day. The usual dose of Voltaren-XR (extended-release) is 100 milligrams taken once a day.

Pain and menstrual discomfort: The usual starting dose of Cataflam is 50 milligrams every 8 hours as needed, although to provide better relief on the first day doctors sometimes prescribe a starting dose of 100 milligrams followed by two 50-milligram doses. After the first day, you should not take more than 150 milligrams in a day.

The safety and effectiveness of Combaren have not been established in children.

Warning and Precautions

Remember that Combaren has been known to cause peptic ulcers and bleeding. Contact your doctor immediately if you suspect a problem.

Use Combaren cautiously if you have kidney problems, heart disease, or high blood pressure. It can cause fluid retention.

This medication can also cause liver problems. If you develop signs of liver disease such as nausea, fatigue, lethargy, itching, yellowish eyes and skin, tenderness in the upper right area of your abdomen, or flu-like symptoms, notify your doctor at once.

Rare cases of meningitis (inflammation of the membrane enclosing the brain) have been linked to Combaren. If symptoms such as fever and coma develop, alert the doctor immediately.

In rare instances, Combaren may also affect your vision. If you notice any problems, stop taking the drug and check with your doctor.

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. The symptoms of Combaren overdose may include: acute kidney failure, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, lung inflammation nausea, vomiting.

Storage

Store Combaren at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) in a tightly closed container. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Combaren out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects: diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; gas; headache; indigestion; nausea; stomach pain; swelling; upset stomach; vomiting. Seek medical attention right away if any of these side effects occur.

More Information

The information given above is a summary. Your pharmacist can provide more information about Combaren. Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.