Information on Norgesic

Pronounced: nor-JEE-zic
Generic ingredients: Orphenadrine citrate, Aspirin, Caffeine
Other Brand names: Norgesic Forte

Why is Norgesic prescribed?

Norgesic is prescribed, along with rest, physical therapy, and other measures, for the relief of mild to moderate pain of severe muscle disorders.

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Most important fact about Norgesic

Norgesic may impair your ability to drive a car or operate dangerous machinery. Do not participate in potentially hazardous activities until you know how you react to this medication.

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How should you take Norgesic?

If aspirin upsets your stomach, you may take Norgesic with food. Take it exactly as prescribed.

--If you miss a dose...

If it is within an hour of your scheduled time, take it as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until later, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.

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What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Norgesic.

Side effects may include:

• blurred vision
• confusion (in the elderly)
• constipation
• difficulty in urinating
• dilation of the pupils
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• dry mouth
• fainting
• hallucinations
• headache
• hives
• light-headedness
• nausea
• palpitations
• rapid heart rate
• skin diseases
• stomach and intestinal bleeding
• vomiting
• weakness

Why should Norgesic not be prescribed?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to the ingredients of Norgesic---orphenadrine, aspirin, and caffeine---you should not take this medication. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

You should not be taking Norgesic if you have the eye condition called glaucoma, a stomach or intestinal blockage, an enlarged prostate gland, a bladder obstruction, achalasia (failure of stomach or intestinal muscles to relax), or myasthenia gravis (muscle weakness and fatigue).

Because taking aspirin while you have chickenpox or flu may cause a rare but serious condition called Reye's syndrome, do not give Norgesic to anyone with these diseases. Call your doctor if fever or swelling develops.

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Special warnings about Norgesic

Because the safety of continuous, long-term therapy with Norgesic has not been established, your doctor should monitor your blood, urine, and liver function if you use this drug for a prolonged period of time.

Because Norgesic contains aspirin, you should be careful taking it if you have a peptic ulcer or problems with blood clotting.

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Possible food and drug interactions when taking Norgesic

If Norgesic is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Norgesic with propoxyphene (Darvon). The combination can cause confusion, anxiety, and tremors.

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Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Norgesic during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. This drug may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

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Recommended dosage

ADULTS
The usual dose of Norgesic is 1 to 2 tablets taken 3 or 4 times a day.

The usual dosage of Norgesic Forte, which is exactly twice the strength of Norgesic, is one-half to 1 tablet, taken 3 or 4 times per day.

CHILDREN
The safety and effectiveness of Norgesic have not been established in children.

OLDER ADULTS
Some older adults have experienced confusion when taking this drug. Your doctor may adjust the dosage accordingly.

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Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose of Norgesic, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.