Where is Salsalate used?
Salsalate is a prescription medicine used to relieve pain from various conditions. This reduces swelling, pain, and joint stiffness from arthritis. This may also be used to treat fever and inflammation in the body. Salsalate is converted in the body to salicylic acid which is its active form and closely related to aspirin.
Salsalate is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). This is available as a capsule for oral administration. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved this medication.
How does Salsalate work?
Salsalate is primarily associated with the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. The inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis is completed through the inactivation of COX-1 and COX-2. Those are responsible for catalyzing the development of prostaglandins in the pathway of arachidonic acid. Even though salicylic acid is the main metabolite of this medicine, it is a weak inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis in vitro. It seems to selectively prevent prostaglandin synthesis in vivo and be responsible for anti-inflammatory activity equal to indomethacin and aspirin. Not like aspirin, Salsalate does not inhibit platelet accumulation.
How is Salsalate taken?
The usual dosage of this medicine is 3000 mg a day given in divided dosages as:
- Two dosages of two 750 mg tablet
- Two dosages of three 500 mg tablet
- Three dosages of two 500 mg tablet
It is to be taken 2 to 3 times a day. You may take each dose with or without food. Each medicine should be taken by mouth with a full glass of water. For at least 10 minutes, do not lie down after taking this drug. Take at the same time each day. Do not stop or change the dosage without consulting your doctor.
The recommended dosage will depend on your condition and response. To lessen your risk of side effects, take this medicine at the lowest dosage for the shortest possible period. For ongoing conditions such as arthritis, continue to take this medication as directed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
What are the possible side effects of Salsalate?
- Mild dizziness
- Upset stomach
- Heartburn
Call your doctor if these occur:
- Dark urine and jaundice
- Sudden numbness or weakness
- Shortness of breath or severe dizziness
- Bloody, black, or tarry stools
- Easy bruising or bleeding
- Flu symptoms and sore throat
- Fever or chills
- Severe stomach pain or ongoing nausea and vomiting
What are the precautions in taking Salsalate?
- If you are taking this medication, limit your alcoholic beverages and stop smoking.
- Avoid any activity that needs your alertness. This drug may make you feel dizzy. Perform some activities until you know how this drug affects you.
- Tell your doctor if you are allergic to this medicine or if you have any allergies.
- Inform your doctor if you have any medical history or current treatments and medications.
- Kidney problems may occur sometimes when using NSAID medication. Problems might occur if you are an older adult, dehydrated, taking other medications, or have kidney disease.
- This medicine should not be used by children and teenagers if they have flu or chickenpox.
