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Interactions between Relafen DS and Rofecoxib

1 drug interaction and 38 additional warnings found for the following 2 drugs:

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Drug interactions

Major drug interactions

Major:

nabumetone rofecoxib

Applies to: Relafen DS (nabumetone) and rofecoxib
Generally avoid

Concomitant use of COX-2 inhibitors with other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the potential for serious gastrointestinal toxicity including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation. The risk is dependent on both dosage and duration of therapy.

Management

Concomitant use of COX-2 inhibitors with non-aspirin NSAIDs should generally be avoided. Some authorities consider this combination to be contraindicated due to the absence of any evidence demonstrating synergistic benefits and the potential for additive adverse reactions (AU,UK).

References (4)
  1. (2001) "Product Information. Celebrex (celecoxib)." Searle
  2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."
  3. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information."
  4. Cerner Multum, Inc (2015) "ANVISA Bulário Eletrônico."

Therapeutic duplication warnings

Therapeutic duplication is the use of more than one medicine from the same drug category or therapeutic class to treat the same condition.

It can be intentional, when combining drugs with similar actions adds demonstrated therapeutic benefit — or unintentional, such as when a patient sees multiple prescribers or fills prescriptions at more than one pharmacy, which can lead to adverse effects.

Duplication:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories

The recommended maximum number of medicines in the 'nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories' category to be taken concurrently is usually one. Your list includes two medicines belonging to the 'nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories' category:

  • Relafen DS (nabumetone)
  • rofecoxib

Note: In certain circumstances, the benefits of taking this combination of drugs may outweigh any risks. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or dosage.

Food/lifestyle interactions

Moderate food/lifestyle interactions

Moderate:

nabumetone Alcohol (Ethanol)

Applies to: Relafen DS (nabumetone)
Generally avoid

The concurrent use of aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and ethanol may lead to gastrointestinal (GI) blood loss. The mechanism may be due to a combined local effect as well as inhibition of prostaglandins leading to decreased integrity of the GI lining.

Management

Patients should be counseled on this potential interaction and advised to refrain from alcohol consumption while taking aspirin or NSAIDs.

References (1)
  1. (2002) "Product Information. Motrin (ibuprofen)." Pharmacia and Upjohn
Moderate:

nabumetone Nicotine

Applies to: Relafen DS (nabumetone)
Monitor

Smoking cessation may lead to elevated plasma concentrations and enhanced pharmacologic effects of drugs that are substrates of CYP450 1A2 (and possibly CYP450 1A1) and/or certain drugs with a narrow therapeutic index (e.g., flecainide, pentazocine). One proposed mechanism is related to the loss of CYP450 1A2 and 1A1 induction by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in tobacco smoke; when smoking cessation agents are initiated and smoking stops, the metabolism of certain drugs may decrease leading to increased plasma concentrations. The mechanism by which smoking cessation affects narrow therapeutic index drugs that are not known substrates of CYP450 1A2 or 1A1 is unknown. The clinical significance of this interaction is unknown as clinical data are lacking.

Management

Until more information is available, caution is advisable if smoking cessation agents are used concomitantly with drugs that are substrates of CYP450 1A2 or 1A1 and/or those with a narrow therapeutic range. Patients receiving smoking cessation agents may require periodic dose adjustments and closer clinical and laboratory monitoring of medications that are substrates of CYP450 1A2 or 1A1.

References (4)
  1. (2024) "Product Information. Cytisine (cytisinicline)." Consilient Health Ltd
  2. jeong sh, Newcombe D, sheridan j, Tingle M (2015) "Pharmacokinetics of cytisine, an a4 b2 nicotinic receptor partial agonist, in healthy smokers following a single dose." Drug Test Anal, 7, p. 475-82
  3. Vaughan DP, Beckett AH, Robbie DS (1976) "The influence of smoking on the intersubject variation in pentazocine elimination." Br J Clin Pharmacol, 3, p. 279-83
  4. Zevin S, Benowitz NL (1999) "Drug interactions with tobacco smoking: an update" Clin Pharmacokinet, 36, p. 425-38

Disease interactions

35 potential interactions Applies to: 30 conditions, including High Blood Pressure, Heart Failure, Asthma, Gastritis/Duodenitis, and Anemia.

Alcoholism

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Alcoholism.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. These serious adverse events can develop at any time, with or without warning symptoms. NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding, as these patients had a greater than 10-fold increased risk for developing a GI bleed compared to patients without these risk factors. Caution is also advised if NSAIDs are prescribed to patients with other factors that increase risk of GI bleeding, such as: prolonged NSAID therapy; concomitant use of oral corticosteroids, antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin), anticoagulants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; alcohol use; smoking; history of gastrointestinal surgery or anastomosis, older age; poor general health status; and advanced liver disease and/or coagulopathy. Particular vigilance is necessary when treating older adult or debilitated patients since most postmarketing reports of fatal GI events occurred in these patients.

Anemia

Moderate:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a moderate potential interaction with Anemia.

Anemia has been reported in patients treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This may be due to fluid retention, occult/gross blood loss, or an incompletely described effect on erythropoiesis. Hemoglobin or hematocrit should be monitored in patients with any signs/symptoms of anemia or blood loss, especially during long-term therapy. NSAIDs may increase risk of bleeding events; comorbid conditions (e.g., coagulation disorders; concomitant use of warfarin/other anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, serotonin/serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) may increase this risk, and patients with these conditions should be monitored for signs of bleeding. Therapy with NSAIDs should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to anemia. Clinical monitoring of hematopoietic function may be appropriate, particularly during chronic therapy.

Asthma

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Asthma.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are contraindicated in patients with history of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs; severe, sometimes fatal, anaphylactic reactions to NSAIDs have been reported in such patients. A subpopulation of patients with asthma may have aspirin-sensitive asthma which may include chronic rhinosinusitis complicated by nasal polyps, severe potentially fatal bronchospasm, and/or intolerance to aspirin and other NSAIDs. Since cross-reactivity between aspirin and other NSAIDs has been reported in such aspirin-sensitive patients, therapy with any NSAID should be avoided in patients with this form of aspirin sensitivity. NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with preexisting asthma (without known aspirin sensitivity), and these patients should be monitored for changes in the signs and symptoms of asthma.

Bleeding Disorder

Moderate:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a moderate potential interaction with Bleeding Disorder.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reversibly inhibit platelet adhesion and aggregation and may prolong bleeding time in some patients. With the exception of aspirin, the platelet effects seen with most NSAIDs at usual recommended dosages are generally slight and of relatively short duration but may be more pronounced in patients with underlying hemostatic abnormalities. Thrombocytopenia has also been reported rarely during NSAID use. Therapy with NSAIDs should be administered cautiously in patients with significant active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, vitamin K deficiency, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, or severe hepatic impairment. NSAIDs that selectively inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 (i.e., COX-2 inhibitors) do not appear to affect platelet function or bleeding time at indicated dosages and may be preferable if risk of bleeding is a concern.

Moderate:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a moderate potential interaction with Bleeding Disorder.

Anemia has been reported in patients treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This may be due to fluid retention, occult/gross blood loss, or an incompletely described effect on erythropoiesis. Hemoglobin or hematocrit should be monitored in patients with any signs/symptoms of anemia or blood loss, especially during long-term therapy. NSAIDs may increase risk of bleeding events; comorbid conditions (e.g., coagulation disorders; concomitant use of warfarin/other anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, serotonin/serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) may increase this risk, and patients with these conditions should be monitored for signs of bleeding. Therapy with NSAIDs should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to anemia. Clinical monitoring of hematopoietic function may be appropriate, particularly during chronic therapy.

Cerebrovascular Insufficiency

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Cerebrovascular Insufficiency.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may occur early in treatment and may increase with duration of use. Clinical trials of several cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) selective and nonselective NSAIDs of up to 3 years duration have supported this increased risk. It is unclear from available data if the risk for cardiovascular thrombotic events is similar for all NSAIDs. Therapy with NSAIDs should be administered cautiously in patients with a history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease. Patients should be treated with the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration necessary. Appropriate antiplatelet therapy should be administered to patients requiring cardioprotection; however, there is no consistent evidence that concurrent use of aspirin mitigates the increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events associated with NSAID use, while the risk of serious gastrointestinal events is increased. Physicians and patients should remain alert for the development of adverse cardiovascular events throughout the entire duration of therapy, even without prior cardiovascular symptoms. Patients should be advised to promptly seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of cardiovascular thrombotic events (including chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or slurring of speech).

NSAIDs are contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Two large clinical trials of a COX-2 selective NSAID for the treatment of pain in the first 10 to 14 days following CABG surgery found an increased incidence of myocardial infarction and stroke.

The use of NSAIDs should be avoided in patients with a recent myocardial infarction unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of recurrent cardiovascular thrombotic events. If an NSAID is used in patients with a recent myocardial infarction, they should be monitored for signs of cardiac ischemia.

Coagulation Defects and Disorders

Moderate:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a moderate potential interaction with Coagulation Defects and Disorders.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reversibly inhibit platelet adhesion and aggregation and may prolong bleeding time in some patients. With the exception of aspirin, the platelet effects seen with most NSAIDs at usual recommended dosages are generally slight and of relatively short duration but may be more pronounced in patients with underlying hemostatic abnormalities. Thrombocytopenia has also been reported rarely during NSAID use. Therapy with NSAIDs should be administered cautiously in patients with significant active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, vitamin K deficiency, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, or severe hepatic impairment. NSAIDs that selectively inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 (i.e., COX-2 inhibitors) do not appear to affect platelet function or bleeding time at indicated dosages and may be preferable if risk of bleeding is a concern.

Colonic Ulceration

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Colonic Ulceration.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. These serious adverse events can develop at any time, with or without warning symptoms. NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding, as these patients had a greater than 10-fold increased risk for developing a GI bleed compared to patients without these risk factors. Caution is also advised if NSAIDs are prescribed to patients with other factors that increase risk of GI bleeding, such as: prolonged NSAID therapy; concomitant use of oral corticosteroids, antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin), anticoagulants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; alcohol use; smoking; history of gastrointestinal surgery or anastomosis, older age; poor general health status; and advanced liver disease and/or coagulopathy. Particular vigilance is necessary when treating older adult or debilitated patients since most postmarketing reports of fatal GI events occurred in these patients.

Dehydration

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Dehydration.

Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has resulted in renal papillary necrosis and other renal injury. Renal toxicity has been seen in patients in whom renal prostaglandins have a compensatory role in the maintenance of renal perfusion; in such patients, NSAIDs may cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin synthesis and, secondarily, in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal decompensation. Patients at greatest risk for this reaction include those with impaired renal function, dehydration, hypovolemia, heart failure, liver dysfunction; those taking diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or angiotensin receptor blockers; and older adult patients. Discontinuation of NSAID therapy generally leads to recovery to the pretreatment state. No information is available regarding NSAID use in patients with advanced renal disease; the renal effects of NSAIDs may hasten the progression of renal dysfunction in patients with preexisting renal disease. Volume status should be corrected in dehydrated or hypovolemic patients prior to initiating treatment. Renal function should be monitored in patients with renal or liver dysfunction, heart failure, dehydration, or hypovolemia during therapy. NSAIDs should be avoided in patients with advanced renal disease unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening renal function; if an NSAID is used in such patients, they should be monitored for signs of worsening renal function.

Dermatitis, Drug-Induced

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Dermatitis, Drug-Induced.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause serious skin adverse reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, and exfoliative dermatitis), which can be fatal. NSAIDs can also cause fixed drug eruption, and may present as generalized bullous fixed drug eruption, which can be life-threatening. These serious events may occur without warning. Patients should be advised to discontinue the NSAID and seek medical attention promptly at the first sign of skin rash or any other sign of hypersensitivity. NSAIDs are contraindicated in patients with previous serious skin reactions to these drugs.

Fluid Retention

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Fluid Retention.

Fluid retention and edema have been reported in association with the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including some topical formulations. NSAIDs (including topicals) can lead to new onset of hypertension or worsening of preexisting hypertension, either of which can contribute to the increased incidence of cardiovascular events. NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with preexisting fluid retention, hypertension, or history of heart failure. NSAIDs should be avoided in patients with severe heart failure unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening heart failure; if an NSAID is used in such patients, they should be monitored for signs of worsening heart failure. Blood pressure and cardiovascular status should be monitored closely during the initiation of NSAID treatment and throughout the course of therapy.

Gastritis/Duodenitis

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Gastritis/Duodenitis.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. These serious adverse events can develop at any time, with or without warning symptoms. NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding, as these patients had a greater than 10-fold increased risk for developing a GI bleed compared to patients without these risk factors. Caution is also advised if NSAIDs are prescribed to patients with other factors that increase risk of GI bleeding, such as: prolonged NSAID therapy; concomitant use of oral corticosteroids, antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin), anticoagulants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; alcohol use; smoking; history of gastrointestinal surgery or anastomosis, older age; poor general health status; and advanced liver disease and/or coagulopathy. Particular vigilance is necessary when treating older adult or debilitated patients since most postmarketing reports of fatal GI events occurred in these patients.

Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. These serious adverse events can develop at any time, with or without warning symptoms. NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding, as these patients had a greater than 10-fold increased risk for developing a GI bleed compared to patients without these risk factors. Caution is also advised if NSAIDs are prescribed to patients with other factors that increase risk of GI bleeding, such as: prolonged NSAID therapy; concomitant use of oral corticosteroids, antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin), anticoagulants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; alcohol use; smoking; history of gastrointestinal surgery or anastomosis, older age; poor general health status; and advanced liver disease and/or coagulopathy. Particular vigilance is necessary when treating older adult or debilitated patients since most postmarketing reports of fatal GI events occurred in these patients.

Gastrointestinal Perforation

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Gastrointestinal Perforation.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. These serious adverse events can develop at any time, with or without warning symptoms. NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding, as these patients had a greater than 10-fold increased risk for developing a GI bleed compared to patients without these risk factors. Caution is also advised if NSAIDs are prescribed to patients with other factors that increase risk of GI bleeding, such as: prolonged NSAID therapy; concomitant use of oral corticosteroids, antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin), anticoagulants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; alcohol use; smoking; history of gastrointestinal surgery or anastomosis, older age; poor general health status; and advanced liver disease and/or coagulopathy. Particular vigilance is necessary when treating older adult or debilitated patients since most postmarketing reports of fatal GI events occurred in these patients.

Heart Failure

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Heart Failure.

Fluid retention and edema have been reported in association with the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including some topical formulations. NSAIDs (including topicals) can lead to new onset of hypertension or worsening of preexisting hypertension, either of which can contribute to the increased incidence of cardiovascular events. NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with preexisting fluid retention, hypertension, or history of heart failure. NSAIDs should be avoided in patients with severe heart failure unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening heart failure; if an NSAID is used in such patients, they should be monitored for signs of worsening heart failure. Blood pressure and cardiovascular status should be monitored closely during the initiation of NSAID treatment and throughout the course of therapy.

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Heart Failure.

Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has resulted in renal papillary necrosis and other renal injury. Renal toxicity has been seen in patients in whom renal prostaglandins have a compensatory role in the maintenance of renal perfusion; in such patients, NSAIDs may cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin synthesis and, secondarily, in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal decompensation. Patients at greatest risk for this reaction include those with impaired renal function, dehydration, hypovolemia, heart failure, liver dysfunction; those taking diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or angiotensin receptor blockers; and older adult patients. Discontinuation of NSAID therapy generally leads to recovery to the pretreatment state. No information is available regarding NSAID use in patients with advanced renal disease; the renal effects of NSAIDs may hasten the progression of renal dysfunction in patients with preexisting renal disease. Volume status should be corrected in dehydrated or hypovolemic patients prior to initiating treatment. Renal function should be monitored in patients with renal or liver dysfunction, heart failure, dehydration, or hypovolemia during therapy. NSAIDs should be avoided in patients with advanced renal disease unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening renal function; if an NSAID is used in such patients, they should be monitored for signs of worsening renal function.

High Blood Pressure

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with High Blood Pressure.

Fluid retention and edema have been reported in association with the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including some topical formulations. NSAIDs (including topicals) can lead to new onset of hypertension or worsening of preexisting hypertension, either of which can contribute to the increased incidence of cardiovascular events. NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with preexisting fluid retention, hypertension, or history of heart failure. NSAIDs should be avoided in patients with severe heart failure unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening heart failure; if an NSAID is used in such patients, they should be monitored for signs of worsening heart failure. Blood pressure and cardiovascular status should be monitored closely during the initiation of NSAID treatment and throughout the course of therapy.

History, Peptic Ulcer

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with History, Peptic Ulcer.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. These serious adverse events can develop at any time, with or without warning symptoms. NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding, as these patients had a greater than 10-fold increased risk for developing a GI bleed compared to patients without these risk factors. Caution is also advised if NSAIDs are prescribed to patients with other factors that increase risk of GI bleeding, such as: prolonged NSAID therapy; concomitant use of oral corticosteroids, antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin), anticoagulants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; alcohol use; smoking; history of gastrointestinal surgery or anastomosis, older age; poor general health status; and advanced liver disease and/or coagulopathy. Particular vigilance is necessary when treating older adult or debilitated patients since most postmarketing reports of fatal GI events occurred in these patients.

History - Cerebrovascular Disease

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with History - Cerebrovascular Disease.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may occur early in treatment and may increase with duration of use. Clinical trials of several cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) selective and nonselective NSAIDs of up to 3 years duration have supported this increased risk. It is unclear from available data if the risk for cardiovascular thrombotic events is similar for all NSAIDs. Therapy with NSAIDs should be administered cautiously in patients with a history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease. Patients should be treated with the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration necessary. Appropriate antiplatelet therapy should be administered to patients requiring cardioprotection; however, there is no consistent evidence that concurrent use of aspirin mitigates the increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events associated with NSAID use, while the risk of serious gastrointestinal events is increased. Physicians and patients should remain alert for the development of adverse cardiovascular events throughout the entire duration of therapy, even without prior cardiovascular symptoms. Patients should be advised to promptly seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of cardiovascular thrombotic events (including chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or slurring of speech).

NSAIDs are contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Two large clinical trials of a COX-2 selective NSAID for the treatment of pain in the first 10 to 14 days following CABG surgery found an increased incidence of myocardial infarction and stroke.

The use of NSAIDs should be avoided in patients with a recent myocardial infarction unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of recurrent cardiovascular thrombotic events. If an NSAID is used in patients with a recent myocardial infarction, they should be monitored for signs of cardiac ischemia.

History - Myocardial Infarction

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with History - Myocardial Infarction.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may occur early in treatment and may increase with duration of use. Clinical trials of several cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) selective and nonselective NSAIDs of up to 3 years duration have supported this increased risk. It is unclear from available data if the risk for cardiovascular thrombotic events is similar for all NSAIDs. Therapy with NSAIDs should be administered cautiously in patients with a history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease. Patients should be treated with the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration necessary. Appropriate antiplatelet therapy should be administered to patients requiring cardioprotection; however, there is no consistent evidence that concurrent use of aspirin mitigates the increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events associated with NSAID use, while the risk of serious gastrointestinal events is increased. Physicians and patients should remain alert for the development of adverse cardiovascular events throughout the entire duration of therapy, even without prior cardiovascular symptoms. Patients should be advised to promptly seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of cardiovascular thrombotic events (including chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or slurring of speech).

NSAIDs are contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Two large clinical trials of a COX-2 selective NSAID for the treatment of pain in the first 10 to 14 days following CABG surgery found an increased incidence of myocardial infarction and stroke.

The use of NSAIDs should be avoided in patients with a recent myocardial infarction unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of recurrent cardiovascular thrombotic events. If an NSAID is used in patients with a recent myocardial infarction, they should be monitored for signs of cardiac ischemia.

Hyperkalemia

Moderate:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a moderate potential interaction with Hyperkalemia.

Increases in serum potassium concentration (including hyperkalemia) have been reported with use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), even in some patients without renal impairment. In patients with normal renal function, these effects have been attributed to a hyporeninemic-hypoaldosteronism state. Caution is advised in patients with hyperkalemia.

Hyponatremia

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Hyponatremia.

Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has resulted in renal papillary necrosis and other renal injury. Renal toxicity has been seen in patients in whom renal prostaglandins have a compensatory role in the maintenance of renal perfusion; in such patients, NSAIDs may cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin synthesis and, secondarily, in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal decompensation. Patients at greatest risk for this reaction include those with impaired renal function, dehydration, hypovolemia, heart failure, liver dysfunction; those taking diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or angiotensin receptor blockers; and older adult patients. Discontinuation of NSAID therapy generally leads to recovery to the pretreatment state. No information is available regarding NSAID use in patients with advanced renal disease; the renal effects of NSAIDs may hasten the progression of renal dysfunction in patients with preexisting renal disease. Volume status should be corrected in dehydrated or hypovolemic patients prior to initiating treatment. Renal function should be monitored in patients with renal or liver dysfunction, heart failure, dehydration, or hypovolemia during therapy. NSAIDs should be avoided in patients with advanced renal disease unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening renal function; if an NSAID is used in such patients, they should be monitored for signs of worsening renal function.

Intestinal Anastomoses

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Intestinal Anastomoses.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. These serious adverse events can develop at any time, with or without warning symptoms. NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding, as these patients had a greater than 10-fold increased risk for developing a GI bleed compared to patients without these risk factors. Caution is also advised if NSAIDs are prescribed to patients with other factors that increase risk of GI bleeding, such as: prolonged NSAID therapy; concomitant use of oral corticosteroids, antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin), anticoagulants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; alcohol use; smoking; history of gastrointestinal surgery or anastomosis, older age; poor general health status; and advanced liver disease and/or coagulopathy. Particular vigilance is necessary when treating older adult or debilitated patients since most postmarketing reports of fatal GI events occurred in these patients.

Ischemic Heart Disease

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Ischemic Heart Disease.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may occur early in treatment and may increase with duration of use. Clinical trials of several cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) selective and nonselective NSAIDs of up to 3 years duration have supported this increased risk. It is unclear from available data if the risk for cardiovascular thrombotic events is similar for all NSAIDs. Therapy with NSAIDs should be administered cautiously in patients with a history of cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease. Patients should be treated with the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration necessary. Appropriate antiplatelet therapy should be administered to patients requiring cardioprotection; however, there is no consistent evidence that concurrent use of aspirin mitigates the increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events associated with NSAID use, while the risk of serious gastrointestinal events is increased. Physicians and patients should remain alert for the development of adverse cardiovascular events throughout the entire duration of therapy, even without prior cardiovascular symptoms. Patients should be advised to promptly seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of cardiovascular thrombotic events (including chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or slurring of speech).

NSAIDs are contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Two large clinical trials of a COX-2 selective NSAID for the treatment of pain in the first 10 to 14 days following CABG surgery found an increased incidence of myocardial infarction and stroke.

The use of NSAIDs should be avoided in patients with a recent myocardial infarction unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of recurrent cardiovascular thrombotic events. If an NSAID is used in patients with a recent myocardial infarction, they should be monitored for signs of cardiac ischemia.

Liver Disease

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Liver Disease.

Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has resulted in renal papillary necrosis and other renal injury. Renal toxicity has been seen in patients in whom renal prostaglandins have a compensatory role in the maintenance of renal perfusion; in such patients, NSAIDs may cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin synthesis and, secondarily, in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal decompensation. Patients at greatest risk for this reaction include those with impaired renal function, dehydration, hypovolemia, heart failure, liver dysfunction; those taking diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or angiotensin receptor blockers; and older adult patients. Discontinuation of NSAID therapy generally leads to recovery to the pretreatment state. No information is available regarding NSAID use in patients with advanced renal disease; the renal effects of NSAIDs may hasten the progression of renal dysfunction in patients with preexisting renal disease. Volume status should be corrected in dehydrated or hypovolemic patients prior to initiating treatment. Renal function should be monitored in patients with renal or liver dysfunction, heart failure, dehydration, or hypovolemia during therapy. NSAIDs should be avoided in patients with advanced renal disease unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening renal function; if an NSAID is used in such patients, they should be monitored for signs of worsening renal function.

Moderate:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a moderate potential interaction with Liver Disease.

The biotransformation of nabumetone to its active metabolite (6-methoxy-2-naphthylacetic acid, or 6MNA) and the further metabolism of 6MNA to inactive substances are dependent upon hepatic function and could be reduced in patients with severe hepatic impairment. The protein binding of 6MNA may also be altered in liver disease. Clinical data concerning the potential consequences of these effects are limited.

Moderate:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a moderate potential interaction with Liver Disease.

Therapy with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting liver disease. Periodic monitoring of liver function is recommended during prolonged therapy. NSAIDs are also highly protein-bound and some are extensively metabolized by the liver. Metabolic activity and/or plasma protein binding may be altered in patients with hepatic impairment. A dosage reduction may be required in some cases.

Noninfectious Colitis

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Noninfectious Colitis.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. These serious adverse events can develop at any time, with or without warning symptoms. NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding, as these patients had a greater than 10-fold increased risk for developing a GI bleed compared to patients without these risk factors. Caution is also advised if NSAIDs are prescribed to patients with other factors that increase risk of GI bleeding, such as: prolonged NSAID therapy; concomitant use of oral corticosteroids, antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin), anticoagulants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; alcohol use; smoking; history of gastrointestinal surgery or anastomosis, older age; poor general health status; and advanced liver disease and/or coagulopathy. Particular vigilance is necessary when treating older adult or debilitated patients since most postmarketing reports of fatal GI events occurred in these patients.

Peptic Ulcer

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Peptic Ulcer.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. These serious adverse events can develop at any time, with or without warning symptoms. NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding, as these patients had a greater than 10-fold increased risk for developing a GI bleed compared to patients without these risk factors. Caution is also advised if NSAIDs are prescribed to patients with other factors that increase risk of GI bleeding, such as: prolonged NSAID therapy; concomitant use of oral corticosteroids, antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin), anticoagulants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; alcohol use; smoking; history of gastrointestinal surgery or anastomosis, older age; poor general health status; and advanced liver disease and/or coagulopathy. Particular vigilance is necessary when treating older adult or debilitated patients since most postmarketing reports of fatal GI events occurred in these patients.

Renal Dysfunction

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

Long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has resulted in renal papillary necrosis and other renal injury. Renal toxicity has been seen in patients in whom renal prostaglandins have a compensatory role in the maintenance of renal perfusion; in such patients, NSAIDs may cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin synthesis and, secondarily, in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal decompensation. Patients at greatest risk for this reaction include those with impaired renal function, dehydration, hypovolemia, heart failure, liver dysfunction; those taking diuretics, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or angiotensin receptor blockers; and older adult patients. Discontinuation of NSAID therapy generally leads to recovery to the pretreatment state. No information is available regarding NSAID use in patients with advanced renal disease; the renal effects of NSAIDs may hasten the progression of renal dysfunction in patients with preexisting renal disease. Volume status should be corrected in dehydrated or hypovolemic patients prior to initiating treatment. Renal function should be monitored in patients with renal or liver dysfunction, heart failure, dehydration, or hypovolemia during therapy. NSAIDs should be avoided in patients with advanced renal disease unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening renal function; if an NSAID is used in such patients, they should be monitored for signs of worsening renal function.

Moderate:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

Increases in serum potassium concentration (including hyperkalemia) have been reported with use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), even in some patients without renal impairment. In patients with normal renal function, these effects have been attributed to a hyporeninemic-hypoaldosteronism state. Caution is advised in patients with hyperkalemia.

Smoking

Major:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a major potential interaction with Smoking.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. These serious adverse events can develop at any time, with or without warning symptoms. NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients with history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding, as these patients had a greater than 10-fold increased risk for developing a GI bleed compared to patients without these risk factors. Caution is also advised if NSAIDs are prescribed to patients with other factors that increase risk of GI bleeding, such as: prolonged NSAID therapy; concomitant use of oral corticosteroids, antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin), anticoagulants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; alcohol use; smoking; history of gastrointestinal surgery or anastomosis, older age; poor general health status; and advanced liver disease and/or coagulopathy. Particular vigilance is necessary when treating older adult or debilitated patients since most postmarketing reports of fatal GI events occurred in these patients.

Thrombocytopathy

Moderate:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a moderate potential interaction with Thrombocytopathy.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reversibly inhibit platelet adhesion and aggregation and may prolong bleeding time in some patients. With the exception of aspirin, the platelet effects seen with most NSAIDs at usual recommended dosages are generally slight and of relatively short duration but may be more pronounced in patients with underlying hemostatic abnormalities. Thrombocytopenia has also been reported rarely during NSAID use. Therapy with NSAIDs should be administered cautiously in patients with significant active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, vitamin K deficiency, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, or severe hepatic impairment. NSAIDs that selectively inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 (i.e., COX-2 inhibitors) do not appear to affect platelet function or bleeding time at indicated dosages and may be preferable if risk of bleeding is a concern.

Thrombocytopenia

Moderate:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a moderate potential interaction with Thrombocytopenia.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reversibly inhibit platelet adhesion and aggregation and may prolong bleeding time in some patients. With the exception of aspirin, the platelet effects seen with most NSAIDs at usual recommended dosages are generally slight and of relatively short duration but may be more pronounced in patients with underlying hemostatic abnormalities. Thrombocytopenia has also been reported rarely during NSAID use. Therapy with NSAIDs should be administered cautiously in patients with significant active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, vitamin K deficiency, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, or severe hepatic impairment. NSAIDs that selectively inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 (i.e., COX-2 inhibitors) do not appear to affect platelet function or bleeding time at indicated dosages and may be preferable if risk of bleeding is a concern.

Vitamin K Deficiency

Moderate:

Relafen DS

The nabumetone in Relafen DS has a moderate potential interaction with Vitamin K Deficiency.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reversibly inhibit platelet adhesion and aggregation and may prolong bleeding time in some patients. With the exception of aspirin, the platelet effects seen with most NSAIDs at usual recommended dosages are generally slight and of relatively short duration but may be more pronounced in patients with underlying hemostatic abnormalities. Thrombocytopenia has also been reported rarely during NSAID use. Therapy with NSAIDs should be administered cautiously in patients with significant active bleeding or a hemorrhagic diathesis, including hemostatic and/or coagulation defects associated with hemophilia, vitamin K deficiency, hypoprothrombinemia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopathy, or severe hepatic impairment. NSAIDs that selectively inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 (i.e., COX-2 inhibitors) do not appear to affect platelet function or bleeding time at indicated dosages and may be preferable if risk of bleeding is a concern.

More resources

Relafen DS

A total of 506 drugs are known to interact with Relafen DS.

rofecoxib

A total of 315 drugs are known to interact with rofecoxib.

Drug Interaction Classification

These classifications are only a guideline. The relevance of a particular drug interaction to a specific individual is difficult to determine. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.
Major Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit.
Moderate Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances.
Minor Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan.
Unknown No interaction information available.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.