Arthritis Pain Reliever

Description

Acetaminophen extended-release tablets USP are formulated as capsule-shaped bi-layer caplets, each containing 650 mg of acetaminophen. These tablets are designed for the temporary relief of minor arthritis pain and do not contain aspirin.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains associated with various conditions, including minor pain of arthritis, backache, muscular aches, toothache, premenstrual and menstrual cramps, headache, and discomfort due to the common cold. Additionally, it is indicated for the temporary reduction of fever and serves as an arthritis pain reliever specifically for the temporary relief of minor arthritis pain.

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

Adults are instructed to take 2 caplets orally every 8 hours with water. The caplets must be swallowed whole and should not be crushed, chewed, split, or dissolved. The maximum dosage should not exceed 6 caplets within a 24-hour period. Additionally, the use of this medication should not extend beyond 10 days unless directed by a healthcare professional.

For individuals under 18 years of age, it is recommended to consult a doctor prior to use.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

Patients should not use this product in conjunction with any other medication containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription, due to the risk of acetaminophen overdose. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of acetaminophen in other medications, consultation with a healthcare professional is advised.

Additionally, this product is contraindicated in individuals with a known allergy to acetaminophen or any of the inactive ingredients contained in the formulation, as this may lead to severe allergic reactions.

Warnings and Precautions

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product, which contains acetaminophen. Healthcare professionals should advise patients that the risk of liver injury increases if they exceed the maximum daily dosage of 6 caplets within a 24-hour period, use other medications containing acetaminophen concurrently, or consume 3 or more alcoholic beverages daily while taking this product.

Acetaminophen may also lead to severe skin reactions, which can manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. In the event of any skin reaction, patients must be instructed to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

It is essential for patients to consult a healthcare provider prior to using this product if they have a history of liver disease. Additionally, patients taking the anticoagulant warfarin should seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist before use, as there may be potential interactions.

In cases of overdose, immediate medical attention is critical. Patients should be advised to contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) or seek emergency medical help without delay, regardless of the presence of symptoms.

Patients should also be instructed to stop taking the product and consult a healthcare professional if any of the following occur: worsening pain that lasts more than 10 days, fever that persists or worsens beyond 3 days, the emergence of new symptoms, or the presence of redness or swelling. These signs may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires further evaluation.

Side Effects

Severe liver damage may occur in patients taking this product containing acetaminophen if they exceed the maximum daily amount of 6 caplets within 24 hours, use it in conjunction with other drugs containing acetaminophen, or consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Patients should be aware of the potential for severe skin reactions associated with acetaminophen, which may manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. In the event of a skin reaction, it is imperative to discontinue use and seek medical assistance immediately.

Patients with liver disease should consult a doctor prior to using this product. Additionally, individuals taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin are advised to seek guidance from a doctor or pharmacist before use.

Patients are instructed to stop using the product and consult a doctor if pain worsens or persists beyond 10 days, if fever intensifies or lasts more than 3 days, if new symptoms arise, or if redness or swelling occurs, as these may indicate a serious condition.

In the case of an overdose, it is crucial for patients to seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) immediately, as prompt medical attention is essential for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms.

Drug Interactions

Patients should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication if they are concurrently taking warfarin, a blood-thinning agent. The combination may increase the risk of bleeding due to potential pharmacodynamic interactions.

Additionally, this medication should not be used in conjunction with any other products containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or over-the-counter. Co-administration may lead to an increased risk of acetaminophen-related hepatotoxicity. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of acetaminophen in other medications, patients are advised to seek guidance from a healthcare provider.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Arthritis Pain Reliever (acetaminophen). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 18 years of age should consult a healthcare professional before use. It is essential to evaluate the appropriateness of treatment and dosage for this population, as specific recommendations may vary based on individual health needs and conditions.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific information regarding age considerations, dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions in the provided text. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in therapeutic response, given the general variability in drug metabolism and sensitivity in this population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. The potential risks and benefits must be carefully weighed, as the effects on fetal outcomes and lactation are not fully established. It is essential for women of childbearing potential to seek medical advice to ensure safe use during pregnancy and lactation.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is currently no available data regarding the excretion of this medication in human breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when administering this medication to lactating individuals.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have no specific information regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations provided in the drug insert. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to individuals with reduced kidney function, as the lack of data necessitates careful clinical judgment. Regular monitoring of renal function may be advisable in these patients to ensure safety and efficacy.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should exercise caution when using this product, as it contains acetaminophen, which is associated with the risk of severe liver damage. It is critical that patients do not exceed the maximum daily dosage of 6 caplets within a 24-hour period. Additionally, patients should avoid concurrent use with other medications that contain acetaminophen, as this may further increase the risk of liver injury.

Patients with compromised liver function are advised to consult a healthcare professional prior to using this product, particularly if they have a history of liver disease. Furthermore, consumption of three or more alcoholic drinks per day while using this product is contraindicated, as it may exacerbate the risk of liver damage. Regular monitoring of liver function may be warranted in patients with existing hepatic impairment to ensure safety and efficacy during treatment.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Prompt medical intervention is crucial for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms.

Healthcare professionals should be aware that the severity of symptoms may vary based on the specific substance involved in the overdose. Therefore, a thorough assessment and monitoring of the patient are essential.

Management of an overdose may include supportive care and symptomatic treatment, tailored to the individual’s clinical presentation. Continuous evaluation and appropriate interventions should be initiated as necessary to mitigate potential complications.

Nonclinical Toxicology

No teratogenic or non-teratogenic effects have been reported in the available nonclinical studies. Additionally, there is no information regarding animal pharmacology and toxicology. The absence of data limits the assessment of potential risks associated with the compound in these areas.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified severe skin reactions associated with acetaminophen. Reported symptoms may include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. In the event of a skin reaction, it is advised that the use of the product be discontinued and medical assistance be sought immediately.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) in the event of an overdose, emphasizing that prompt medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are apparent.

Patients should be informed not to use this medication in conjunction with any other products containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. If patients are uncertain about the presence of acetaminophen in other medications, they should be encouraged to consult with a doctor or pharmacist.

It is important to instruct patients to discontinue use and consult a doctor if their pain worsens or persists for more than 10 days. Similarly, they should stop use and seek medical advice if their fever worsens or lasts longer than 3 days, if new symptoms arise, or if they notice any redness or swelling, as these may indicate a serious condition.

Patients with a history of liver disease should be advised to consult a doctor before using this medication. Additionally, those taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should be encouraged to speak with a doctor or pharmacist prior to use to ensure safety and avoid potential interactions.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It is essential to store the product at a controlled temperature range of 20-25°C (68-77°F) to maintain its integrity and efficacy. Proper storage conditions must be adhered to, ensuring that the product is kept within the specified temperature limits to prevent degradation.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally, with adults advised to take 2 caplets every 8 hours with water, ensuring they are swallowed whole without crushing, chewing, splitting, or dissolving. Patients should not exceed 6 caplets in a 24-hour period and should not use the medication for more than 10 days unless directed by a healthcare professional.

Clinicians should counsel patients to consult a health professional if they are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is important to keep the medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, patients should seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222), as prompt medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if no symptoms are apparent.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Arthritis Pain Reliever, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)