Salsalate
Pronounced
"SAL-suh-late"
Uses
Salsalate is used to relieve pain from various conditions. It also reduces pain, swelling, and joint stiffness from arthritis. This medication is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
Warning
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including salsalate) may rarely increase the risk for a heart attack or stroke. This effect does not apply to low-dose aspirin. (See Drug Interactions section.) This effect can happen at any time while taking this drug but is more likely if you take it for a long time. The risk may be greater if you have heart disease or increased risk for heart disease (for example, due to smoking, family history of heart disease, or conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes). Do not take this drug right before or after heart bypass surgery (CABG). Also, this drug may rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. This bleeding can occur without warning symptoms at any time during treatment.
Stop taking this medication and get medical help right away if you notice any of the following rare but very serious side effects: stomach/abdominal pain that doesn't go away, chest pain, severe dizziness, weakness on one side of the body, sudden vision changes, trouble speaking, black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds. (See also Precautions section.)
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the risks and benefits of treatment with this medication.
How to Use This Medication
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 2 to 3 times daily with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters). Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this drug. If stomach upset occurs while taking this medication, take it with food, milk, or an antacid.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of stomach bleeding and other side effects, take this medication at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Do not increase your dose, take it more often, or take it for a longer time than prescribed. For ongoing conditions such as arthritis, continue taking this medication as directed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor or pharmacist.
For certain conditions (such as arthritis), it may take up to 2 weeks of taking this drug regularly until you get the full benefit.
If you are taking this drug "as needed" (not on a regular schedule), remember that pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain occur. If you wait until the symptoms have worsened, the medicine may not work as well.
Tell your doctor if your symptoms last or get worse or if you develop new symptoms.
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