Oxaprozin is indicated for the relief of signs and symptoms of:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis

Oxaprozin potassium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that converts in the body to the active form, oxaprozin. It possesses analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic effects.

The exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it mainly works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2), which reduces prostaglandin production.

Oxaprozin strongly inhibits prostaglandin synthesis in laboratory studies. During treatment, drug levels are sufficient to produce effects in the body. Prostaglandins are involved in pain and inflammation by sensitizing nerves and enhancing bradykinin activity. By reducing prostaglandin production, oxaprozin helps decrease pain and inflammation in peripheral tissues.

General Dosing Instructions: Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of Oxaprozin and other treatment options before deciding to use Oxaprozin. Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals. After observing the response to initial therapy with Oxaprozin, the dose and frequency should be adjusted to suit an individual patient’s needs.

Divided doses may be tried in patients unable to tolerate single doses. For osteoarthritis patients of low body weight or with milder disease, an initial dose of one 600 mg tablet once a day may be appropriate. The maximum total daily dose is 1200 mg.

Osteoarthritis: For Osteoarthritis, the dosage is 1200 mg (two 600 mg tablets) given orally once a day.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: For Rheumatoid Arthritis, the dosage is 1200 mg (two 600 mg tablets) given orally once a day.

Use of oxaprozin with aspirin may increase the risk of salicylate toxicity. It may enhance the effect of oral anticoagulants. It can reduce the effectiveness of beta-blockers, diuretics, and other antihypertensive medicines. It may also increase the risk of toxicity from methotrexate and lithium.

Oxaprozin is contraindicated in patients with active or previous peptic ulcer disease, known hypersensitivity to NSAIDs, and for perioperative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

Common adverse effects include depression, drowsiness, sedation, confusion, sleep disturbances, weakness, malaise, skin rash, itching, urticaria, photosensitivity, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, gas, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, dyspepsia, nausea, peptic ulcer, gastrointestinal bleeding, abnormal liver function tests, stomatitis, hemorrhoidal or rectal bleeding, tinnitus, urinary discomfort or frequency, edema, blood pressure changes, hematuria, renal impairment, reduced menstrual flow, anemia, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, bruising, weight changes, blurred vision, and conjunctivitis.

Serious adverse reactions may include

• cardiovascular thrombotic events,
• gastrointestinal bleeding,
• ulceration or perforation,
• liver toxicity, hypertension, heart failure,
• renal toxicity, hyperkalemia,
• anaphylaxis,
• severe skin reactions,
• and hematologic toxicity.

Pregnancy Category: C, D (third trimester or near delivery).

Monitor carefully for gastrointestinal ulceration and bleeding during long-term therapy. Caution is needed in patients with history of GI disease, alcoholism, smoking, elderly or debilitated patients, heart failure, hypertension, fluid retention conditions, renal or hepatic impairment, and coagulation disorders. It should be used carefully in patients undergoing surgery requiring good hemostasis. Avoid use during late pregnancy and lactation.

Renal Impairment:

Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis (severe or dialysis): 600 mg once daily; may increase to 1.2 g daily if needed.

Symptoms may include acute kidney failure, vomiting, drowsiness, and increased white blood cell count.

Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Repeated activated charcoal may be required to reduce delayed toxicity.

Drugs for osteoarthritis, drugs for rheumatoid arthritis, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Store at 25°C. Protect from light.