Clinoril (sulindac) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly used to treat chronic ailments such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, shoulder pain, and ankylosing spondylitis. The medication is also used to treat acute gouty arthritis, menstrual cramps, and other types of short term pain. Clinoril is a sulfinylinde derivative, converted in the body into its active NSAID form and reabsorbed in the intestine, making it less likely than most other NSAIDs to cause stomach upset.

The medication provides numerous benefits in a variety of applications:

• Decreases arthritic disease activity
• Relieves night pain, improving sleep quality
• Improves joint mobility, range of motion, and functionality
• Decreases swelling and soreness
• Decreases duration of exercise induced stiffness
• Reduces spinal pain and/or spasm
• Less likely to cause gastrointestinal bleeding than aspirin
• Less likely than other NSAIDs to cause stomach upset
• Reduces growth of precancerous colon polyps and lesions
• May have additional anti-cancer properties
• Alleviates overall pain

Clinoril has shown some potential as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease, though research is still ongoing in this area. The medication can also help suppress contractions and premature labor, but should be administered only under doctor supervision for this purpose as, like any NSAID, Clinoril can cause complications if taken in the later stages of pregnancy.

Managing Pain with Clinoril

Clinoril is administered by tablets, typically taken twice per day. Tablets should be taken with food.

Dosage will vary to some extent according to the condition being treated as well as personal variables like age and weight. In otherwise healthy adults, dosage typically ranges from 100 to 200 mg taken twice per day. Total dosage should not exceed 400 mg per day.

Duration of treatment is more variable than dosage, highly dependent on the condition being treated and patient response. In most cases significant relief is felt within days of starting treatment; once pain is under control dosage may be lowered for longer-term maintenance. Treatment may continue for anywhere from one week to two years.

As is the case with all medications, the lowest dose and shortest duration possible is desirable. The longer treatment continues---and the higher the dosage---the greater the likelihood of experiencing adverse effects.

Precautions & Side Effects

Like all NSAIDs, Clinoril can cause side effects. Usually these are mild, not cause for concern unless severe enough to be disruptive to day-to-day life:

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Heartburn
• Gas
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Gastric pain

Rarely more serious complications can occur. NSAIDs are known for causing ulcers or bleeding in the digestive system; patients with a history of such problems are at greater risk. NSAIDs also raise blood pressure, putting patients at increased risk of related complications, including heart attack, stroke, kidney damage and so forth. Patients who have high blood pressure or a history of cardiovascular issues should discuss risks carefully with a doctor; alternative treatments may be preferable.

Warning signs that warrant emergency medical attention include:

• Black or bloody stools
• Unusual skin blisters or rashes
• Yellowing of eyes or skin (jaundice)
• Severe weakness or fatigue
• Severe abdominal pain
• Abdominal pain that radiates to the back
• Severe fluid retention

Patients who have experienced allergic reactions or other adverse effects from other NSAIDs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, are at increased risk of experiencing similar reactions to Clinoril (or any other NSAID).