Ocufen
Ocufen Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Ocufen is a brand name. Its generic name is Flurbiprofen.
Introduction
Ocufen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is a medication used for the treatment of various inflammatory and pain conditions. It is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, eye drops, and topical ointments. It is usually prescribed short-term for acute injury-related pain, and long-term for chronic conditions such as arthritis. Ocufen works by blocking substances in the body that cause inflammation and pain.
Uses
Ocufen is used to treat pain and inflammation associated with various conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Mild-to-moderate pain from other sources, such as headaches, dental pain, muscle aches, menstrual cramps, and backache
- Tendinitis
- Bursitis
- Cervical dysplasia
Mechanism of Action
Ocufen works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, substances in the body that cause inflammation and pain. Prostaglandins also play an essential role in other body functions, including the regulation of blood pressure, formation of blood clots, and smooth muscle contractions. By blocking the production of prostaglandins, flurbiprofen reduces inflammation and relieves pain.
How Long Does It Take to Work?
Ocufen usually begins to work within a few minutes of taking the medication, though the effects may take up to one hour to be felt. The medication can provide relief for hours or days, depending on the dose and condition being treated.
Absorption
Ocufen is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring 1–2 hours after administration. The bioavailability of the medication is approximately 75%. Ocufen is metabolized in the liver via the cytochrome P450 enzyme system.
Route of Elimination
Ocufen is eliminated mainly via the kidneys, though some is excreted in the feces. The half-life of the medication is approximately 3–6 hours.
Dosage
The recommended dose of flurbiprofen varies depending on the condition being treated, the age of the patient, and any known interactions. Common doses of flurbiprofen include:
- Adult dose for analgesia: 50-100 mg every 4 to 6 hours (not to exceed 400 mg in 24 hours)
- Adult dose for ankylosing spondylitis: 100 mg every 12 hours
- Adult dose for rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis: 200 mg daily in divided doses
- Pediatric dose for juvenile rheumatoid arthritis: 2.2 mg/kg/day in divided doses (not to exceed the adult dose)
Administration
Ocufen may be taken orally with or without food. It may also be applied topically as an ointment or administered via an eye drop. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking this medication.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of flurbiprofen include:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Rash
- Fever
- Itching
- Swelling
- Severe abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Toxicity
The most common toxic side effects of flurbiprofen are related to its anti-inflammatory effects. These include gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. Ocufen can also irritate the lining of the stomach, which can lead to ulcers or bleeding. If taken in large doses, flurbiprofen can also cause kidney or liver damage.
Precaution
Before taking flurbiprofen, it is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any medical conditions or allergies you may have. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding, or if you have certain medical conditions such as liver or kidney disease, ulcers, high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease. Additionally, be sure to tell your doctor about any other medications that you are taking, whether prescription or over-the-counter.
Interactions
Ocufen can interact with other medications, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, blood thinners, diuretics, drugs to treat depression and other psychological disorders, and steroids. Even some herbal supplements, such as ginkgo biloba and St. John’s wort, can interact with flurbiprofen. It is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any potential interactions before taking the medication.
Disease Interactions
Ocufen may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, including asthma, bleeding disorders, kidney or liver disease, stomach ulcers, and cardiovascular diseases. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking this medication if you have any of these conditions.
Drug Interactions
Ocufen can interact with many other medications, including some over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen. It can also interact with some antibiotics, anticoagulants, and medications for depression and other psychological disorders. Be sure to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any potential drug interactions before taking the medication.
Food Interactions
Ocufen can interact with certain types of food, including those high in fat or cholesterol. Eating a high-fat meal while taking the medication can slow down the absorption of the drug, which can reduce its effectiveness. Additionally, certain alcoholic beverages can also interact with flurbiprofen.
Pregnancy Use
Ocufen is not recommended for use during pregnancy, as it can cause harm to an unborn baby. If you are pregnant, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking the medication.
Lactation Use
Ocufen can pass into breast milk and may harm a breastfeeding baby. It is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking the medication if you are breast-feeding.
Acute Overdose
An overdose of flurbiprofen can be very dangerous. If you think you may have taken too much of the medication, contact your doctor or poison control center right away. Symptoms of an overdose may include severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and bleeding.
Contraindication
Ocufen is contraindicated for people with known hypersensitivity to the drug or any of the ingredients in the drug. Additionally, it should not be used by people with certain medical conditions, such as asthma, bleeding disorders, kidney or liver disease, stomach ulcers, and cardiovascular diseases.
Use Direction
It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking flurbiprofen. Do not take more or less than the recommended dose, and do not take the medication for longer than your doctor has prescribed. Avoid taking the medication with alcohol or other medications that can interact with the drug.
Storage Conditions
Ocufen should be stored in a cool, dry place. Keep the medication away from light and moisture. It should also be stored out of reach of children and pets.
Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of flurbiprofen is approximately 0.4 to 0.5 L/kg.
Half Life
The half-life of flurbiprofen is approximately 3–6 hours.
Clearance
The clearance of flurbiprofen is approximately 50 mL/min/1.73 m2.
Here you find in details version of Ocufen
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Ocufen
What is Ocufen?
Ocufen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) prescribed to provide relief from pain, inflammation, stiffness, and swelling. It is sold under the brand name Ansaid.
How does Ocufen work?
Ocufen works by blocking the production of certain chemicals that cause pain and inflammation. It does this by blocking the enzyme known as cyclooxygenase (COX), which is responsible for the production of these chemicals.
What conditions can Ocufen be used to treat?
Ocufen can be used to treat a number of conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, sports injuries, and muscle pain. It can also be used to reduce fever and help with the symptoms of cold and flu.
Who should not take Ocufen?
Ocufen should not be taken by anyone who has had a known allergic reaction to it or any other NSAID. It should also not be taken by people who have a history of heart, liver, or kidney disease, or who are taking blood thinners.
What are the side effects of Ocufen?
Common side effects of Ocufen can include stomach upset, heartburn, headache, drowsiness, and dizziness. It can also cause more serious side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and irregular heartbeat.
How should Ocufen be taken?
Ocufen should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It should usually be taken with food and a full glass of water. Do not take more than the recommended dose, as this could lead to serious side effects.
How often should Ocufen be taken?
Ocufen should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. It is typically taken every 8-12 hours as needed, though your doctor may recommend a different dosage depending on your specific condition or other medicines you are taking.
What should be avoided while taking Ocufen?
You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Ocufen, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding. You should also avoid taking any other medications, over-the-counter or prescription, without consulting your doctor first.
What should be done if a dose of Ocufen is missed?
If a dose of Ocufen is missed, take it as soon as you remember. However, if the next dose is due soon, skip the missed dose and take the next one as scheduled.
What are the potential drug interactions with Ocufen?
Ocufen can interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, diuretics, lithium, migraine medications, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is important to tell your doctor about all prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and supplements you are taking, in order to avoid possible drug interactions.
Can Ocufen be used for long-term treatment?
Ocufen should not be used for long-term treatment unless specifically directed by your doctor. Long-term use of Ocufen can increase your risk of serious side effects, such as kidney damage, stomach ulcers, and increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
Is Ocufen safe for pregnant or nursing women to take?
Ocufen should not be taken by pregnant or nursing women unless specifically directed by their doctor. There is not enough scientific evidence to determine the safety of Ocufen in pregnant or nursing women.
What are the possible complications associated with taking Ocufen?
The most common complication associated with taking Ocufen is an increased risk of stomach bleeding. Other possible complications include increased risk of heart attack or stroke, kidney damage, liver problems, and increased risk of infection.
Can Ocufen be taken with other medications?
Yes, Ocufen can be taken with other medications. However, it is important to tell your doctor about all prescriptions, over the counter medications, and supplements you are taking, in order to avoid possible drug interactions.
Is Ocufen available in generic form?
Yes, Ocufen is available in generic form. Generic Ocufen is just as effective as brand name Ansaid at relieving pain and inflammation, but generic versions may be cheaper.
Can Ocufen cause drowsiness?
Yes, Ocufen can cause drowsiness. It is important to refrain from operating a motor vehicle or heavy machinery while taking Ocufen, as it may cause drowsiness or impaired thinking and reaction time.
What should be done if an overdose of Ocufen occurs?
If you or someone else has taken an overdose of Ocufen, contact a poison control center or seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness, and dizziness.
Can Ocufen cause weight gain?
No, Ocufen does not typically cause weight gain. However, certain medical conditions that Ocufen is used to treat can cause weight gain. It is important to speak with your doctor about any changes in your weight while taking Ocufen.
Is Ocufen available without a prescription?
No, Ocufen is not available without a prescription. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications, including Ocufen.
Are there any long-term effects of taking Ocufen?
Long-term use of Ocufen can increase your risk of developing serious side effects, such as kidney damage, stomach ulcers, and increased risk of heart attack or stroke. It is important to talk to your doctor if you are considering taking Ocufen over an extended period of time.
Are there any precautions that should be taken when taking Ocufen?
Yes, it is important to tell your doctor about any other medications, over-the-counter or prescription, that you are taking before taking Ocufen. You should also avoid alcohol while taking Ocufen, as it can increase your risk of stomach bleeding. It is also important to keep regular doctor visits while taking Ocufen.
Can long-term use of Ocufen lead to kidney damage?
Yes, long-term use of Ocufen can increase your risk of developing serious side effects, including kidney damage. It is important to speak with your doctor about any possible long-term complications of taking Ocufen.
Can Ocufen cause an allergic reaction?
Yes, Ocufen can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to Ocufen can include difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face or tongue, and itching.
Can Ocufen be used to treat fever?
Yes, Ocufen can be used to reduce fever and help with the symptoms of cold and flu. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking Ocufen if you are experiencing a fever.
Can Ocufen be used to treat menstrual cramps?
Yes, Ocufen can be used to relieve menstrual cramps and other symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). However, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking Ocufen to treat menstrual cramps.
Is Ocufen a blood thinner?
No, Ocufen is not a blood thinner. However, it should not be taken by people who are taking blood thinners, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.
Will Ocufen interact with birth control pills?
Yes, Ocufen can interact with certain birth control pills. It is important to talk to your doctor about any medications, over-the-counter or prescription, that you are taking before taking Ocufen.
Can Ocufen be used in children?
Yes, Ocufen can be used in children, but it should only be used under the direction of a doctor. The dose and duration of treatment should be tailored to the specific needs of the child, based on their age, weight, and condition.
Is Ocufen considered to be a narcotic?
No, Ocufen is not a narcotic. It is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) prescribed to provide relief from pain, inflammation, stiffness, and swelling.
Is it safe to take Ocufen with other over-the-counter medications?
Yes, but it is important to talk to your doctor before taking Ocufen with any other medications, over-the-counter or prescription. This is to ensure that there are no potential drug interactions that could increase your risk of side effects.
Does Ocufen have any other uses?
Yes, Ocufen can also be used to reduce fever and help with the symptoms of cold and flu. Additionally, it can be used to reduce pain and inflammation associated with certain conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
What are the common side effects of Ocufen?
Common side effects of Ocufen can include stomach upset, heartburn, headache, drowsiness, and dizziness. It can also cause more serious side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and irregular heartbeat.
Can Ocufen be taken with vitamins and supplements?
Yes, Ocufen can be taken with vitamins and supplements. However, it is important to tell your doctor about any other medications, over-the-counter or prescription, that you are taking before taking Ocufen.
Will Ocufen make me sleepy?
Yes, Ocufen can cause drowsiness. It is important to refrain from operating a motor vehicle or heavy machinery while taking Ocufen, as it may cause drowsiness or impaired thinking and reaction time.
Is Ocufen available in liquid form?
No, Ocufen is only available in pill form. It should be taken as directed by your doctor and is usually taken with food and a full glass of water.
Does Ocufen need to be taken on an empty stomach?
No, Ocufen should typically be taken with food and a full glass of water. It is important to take it as directed by your doctor in order to maximise your treatment.
Is Ocufen a controlled substance?
No, Ocufen is not a controlled substance. However, it is important to follow the instructions provided by your doctor in order to get the most benefit from your treatment.
What is the difference between Ocufen and Ibuprofen?
Ocufen and Ibuprofen are both nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They both work by blocking the production of certain chemicals that cause pain and inflammation. Ocufen usually takes longer to be absorbed in the body and can last longer, so it is typically taken less frequently than ibuprofen.
Are there any alternatives to Ocufen?
Yes, other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, may be prescribed as alternatives to Ocufen. Acetaminophen and narcotic