salsalate

Salsalate is anonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug(NSAID) that is used for treatingfever,pain, and inflammation in the body. Salsalate is converted in the body to salicylic acid which is its active form and is closely related toaspirin. OtherNSAIDsincludeibuprofen(Motrin),indomethacin(Indocin),nabumetone(Relafen),naproxen(Aleve) and several others. They work by reducing the levels of prostaglandins, chemicals produced by the body that are responsible forpain,fever, and inflammation. Salsalate blocks the enzyme that makes prostaglandins (cyclooxygenase), resulting in lower concentrations of prostaglandins. As a consequence, inflammation, pain and fever are reduced. Salsalate is as strong as aspirin in reducing inflammation but has less effect on blood clotting than aspirin.

Amigesic, Salflex, Argesic-SA, Marthritic, Salsitab, Artha-G

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

Yes

Most patients benefit from salsalate and other NSAIDs with few side effects. However, serious side effects can occur and generally tend to be dose-related (are more common at higher doses). Therefore, it is advisable to use the lowest effective dose to minimize side effects. The most common side effects of salsalate involve the gastrointestinal system andringing in the ears(tinnitus). It can cause ulcerations of the stomach andintestines,abdominal pain, cramping,nausea,vomiting,gastritis, and even serious gastrointestinal bleeding andlivertoxicity. Sometimes, ulceration and bleeding may occur without anyabdominal pain. Black tarry stools,weakness, anddizzinessupon standing (orthostatic hypotension) may be the only signs of internal bleeding. Patients who developtinnitusmay need to reduce the dose of salsalate.Rash, kidney impairment,vertigo, andlightheadednessalso may occur. Fluid retention,blood clots,heart attacks,hypertension(high blood pressure), andheart failurealso have been associated with the use of NSAIDs.

The usual dose of salsalate is 3000 mg daily given over 2-4 doses. Salsalate should be taken with food to reduce stomach upset.

Salsalate, like aspirin, is converted to salicylic acid. Therefore, adding aspirin to salsalate can cause salicylic acid toxicity.

NSAIDs may increase the blood levels oflithium(Eskalith,Lithobid) by reducing the excretion of lithium by the kidneys. Increased levels of lithium may lead to lithium toxicity.

NSAIDs may reduce the官网地址bwinlowering effects of blood pressure medications. This may occur because prostaglandins play a role in the regulation (lowering) of blood pressure.

When NSAIDs are combined withmethotrexate(Rheumatrex,Trexall) or aminoglycoside antibiotics (for example, gentamicin) the blood levels of methotrexate or aminoglycoside may increase, presumably because the elimination of methotrexate or aminoglycosides is reduced. This may lead to more side effects from methotrexate or aminoglycosides.

Individuals taking oral blood thinners oranticoagulants, for example,warfarin(Coumadin), should avoid NSAIDs because NSAIDs also thin the blood, and excessive blood thinning may lead to bleeding.

Persons who have more than 3 alcoholicbeveragesper day may be at increased risk of developing stomach ulcers when taking NSAIDs.

There are no adequate studies of salsalate inpregnantwomen.

Salicylic acid appears inbreast milkat levels close to maternal blood levels. This may cause adverse effects in the infant.Nursing女性应该避免护理而采取双水杨酸酯or use alternatedrugs.

What preparations of salsalate are available?

Tablets: 500 and 750 mg

How should I keep salsalate stored?

Salsalate should be stored at room temperature, 15 C (59 F - 86 F).