Oxaprozin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drug primarily used to alleviate symptoms, such as swelling and pain, caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Alternate trade names for this drug include Duraprox®, Dayrun® and Daypro®. Oxaprozin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs work by blocking a hormone that can cause negative side effects. This drug can cause serious gastrointestinal problems, such as bleeding and perforations. Oxaprozin can also result in minor side effects like excess gas, but some potential problems are more serious, such as lack of urination.
In addition to treating swelling and pain, oxaprozin can alleviate stiffness in the joints. The drug only temporarily relieves these symptoms, however; there is no cure for arthritis. This medication also has several off-label uses, including treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome, lower back pain, and inflammation caused by other diseases. It is safe to use in children older than six years old, but only for juvenile arthritis.
While this drug is useful for many people, it can result in serious problems, especially for people with certain pre-existing problems. A history of personal or family problems associated with organs such as the heart, liver, or kidneys can make taking oxaprozin dangerous. Other heart and circulatory problems can also be very dangerous for a person taking this drug.
In general, oxaprozin can have dangerous side effects even if the person taking it does not have pre-existing problems. This drug can have serious gastrointestinal risks, such as bleeding in the stomach or intestines, or the formation of a hole in either area. It is advisable that people taking this medication know which side effects can be linked to significant gastrointestinal issues, such as coughing up blood or black stool.
Some side effects of the medications are not always dangerous. For instance, the gastrointestinal side effects of mild heartburn, stomach irritability and gas are not usually bad signs. Other physical side effects such as blurred vision, ringing noises and a lack of moisture in the mouth are also often considered minor and normal.
It is recommended that a medical professional be consulted if a side effect is experienced. Physical symptoms such as coughing up substances that look like coffee grounds, difficulty urinating, or the yellowing of the skin and eyes can happen while taking this drug, and medical help should be consulted immediately. In addition, issues such as a loss of balance, slurred speech or a loss of appetite can signal danger. Finally, skin issues such as bruising, blistering and peeling should be viewed with extreme caution as well.