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Chronic Care Arthritis NSAIDs Relafen
Chronic Care ... Relafen

Relafen (nabumetone) prescription available today

If you are suffering from arthritis, nabumetone can help. Get a new prescription or refill of nabumetone from a board-certified doctor online.*

Reduce inflammation and pain Treats osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis Take nabumetone before bedtime for optimal results
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*Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Learn more about our controlled substances policy and how you can save up to 80% with our prescription discount card.
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About Relafen (nabumetone)

Nabumetone is considered a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which functions by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain.

 

Some conditions that nabumetone is known to treat include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Nabumetone is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation as well as under different brand names, including Relafen.

 

Nabumetone may be prescribed as a tablet. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.

 

If you're prescribed nabumetone, be sure to complete the full course of the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the NSAID may not fully treat your arthritis.

Nabumetone uses

There are several FDA-approved uses for nabumetone, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your online healthcare professional may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons. It’s also possible that your healthcare professional may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.

Osteoporosis

Nabumetone is FDA-approved to treat osteoarthritis (arthritis caused by a breakdown of the lining of the joints). Relafen reduces inflammatory hormones, which helps reduce pain, swelling, and joint stiffness.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Nabumetone is FDA-approved to treat rheumatoid arthritis (arthritis caused by swelling of the lining of the joints).

Nabumetone side effects

The side effects associated with taking nabumetone are typically mild. Most nabumetone side effects are associated with gastrointestinal discomfort. Nabumetone has some common side effects. They may include:

  • Stomach pain, indigestion, and nausea

  • Minor skin reactions, such as skin rash

  • Swelling in the hands or feet


Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:

  • Shortness of breath or chest pain

  • Rapid weight gain

  • Signs of liver problems (upper stomach pain, flu-like symptoms, jaundice)

  • Severe allergic reaction


You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. It is not known whether Relafen is safe and effective in children.

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How to take nabumetone

Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your nabumetone prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.

 

Nabumetone can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. The typical starting dose of Relafen is 1000 mg orally taken before bedtime. The maintenance dose for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis ranges from 1500 mg to 2000 mg daily divided into 1–2 doses.

What to avoid while taking nabumetone

Nabumetone has 338 drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs. 

Possible drug interactions with Relafen include:

  • Other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

  • Antidepressants, such as citalopram, escitalopram, and Prozac (fluoxetine)

  • Blood thinners

  • Heart or blood pressure medication

  • Steroid medicine


Ask your doctor for medical advice about taking Relafen if you've recently had a coronary artery bypass graft. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Relafen. Alcohol can lead to an increased risk of stomach bleeding.

Medication alternatives to nabumetone

If your healthcare professional prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or other drugs in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

Celebrex (celecoxib)
Dolobid (diflunisal)
Lodine (etodolac)
Cataflam (diclofenac)
Nalfron (fenoprofen)

Nabumetone prescription FAQs

How much does nabumetone cost?

Depending on your pharmacy, nabumetone costs around $16 for twenty 500 mg tablets without insurance. Nabumetone is a generic prescription, and brand names may cost more.

How can I refill my nabumetone prescription?

Nabumetone is only available by prescription, so you will need to see a board-certified doctor to get a refill on your prescription. To get started, book a virtual appointment with one of our top rated board-certified doctors. After a qualifying evaluation, your prescription will be sent to your local pharmacy for pickup.

Who should not take nabumetone?

To make sure Relafen is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

  • Heart disease, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol

  • Stomach ulcers or bleeding

  • Heart attack, stroke, or blood clot

  • History of heart bypass surgery

  • Fluid retention

  • Liver or kidney disease

What can you not take with nabumetone?

Avoid taking certain medications with Relafen, including:

  • Other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

  • Antidepressants, such as citalopram, escitalopram, and Prozac (fluoxetine)

  • Blood thinners, such as warfarin

  • Heart or blood pressure medication, including diuretics

  • Steroid medicine

What happens if you drink alcohol with nabumetone?

Drinking alcohol while taking nabumetone can increase your risk of stomach bleeding. Call your doctor immediately if you notice tarry stools or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

When is the best time to take nabumetone?

The best time to take nabumetone is before bed. Take nabumetone after a meal or with a snack at the same time every day.

What happens if I miss a dose of nabumetone?

If you miss a dose of nabumetone, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it’s almost time for your next dose. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.

What happens if I take too much nabumetone?

If you've taken too much nabumetone, call your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical help.

3 simple steps to request your nabumetone prescription today

How It Works Step 1
Step 1

Book a nabumetone prescription request appointment.

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How It Works Step 2
Step 2

Talk to your medical provider regarding your nabumetone prescription.

Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.
How It Works Step 3
Step 3

Pick up your nabumetone prescription.

We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.

Nabumetone prescription pricing details

To get a new or refill on your nabumetone prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week
  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team
  • Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests
  • Free memberships for your family
  • Cancel anytime

Paying with insurance

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$19.99

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Visits

Copay

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!

We accept these insurance plans and many more:


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Paying without insurance

Membership

$19.99

First month free

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Visits

$129

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.
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*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included. Please refer to our refund policy for additional information.

Nabumetone prescription resources

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PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.