Clinoril (Sulindac)

Do’s

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions: Take Clinoril by mouth, twice daily, as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Take with water: Drink a full glass (8 ounces) of water with Clinoril, unless your healthcare provider advises differently.
• Stay upright: Avoid lying down for at least 10 minutes after taking Clinoril.
• Ease stomach upset: If you experience stomach upset, take Clinoril with food, milk, or an antacid.
• Start low and slow: Take the lowest effective dose of Clinoril for the shortest duration possible to minimize side effects, especially stomach bleeding. Discuss this with your healthcare provider.
• Be consistent (for regular use): Take Clinoril regularly as prescribed, especially for conditions like arthritis, to experience the full benefits.
• Take for pain relief (as needed): If using Clinoril "as needed" for pain, take it at the first sign of pain for best results.
• Inform your healthcare provider: Tell your healthcare provider if your condition worsens while taking Clinoril.

Don'ts

• Don't self-medicate: Don't adjust your Clinoril dosage or take it more often or for longer than prescribed.
• Don't skip discussions with a healthcare provider: Talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of taking Clinoril.
• Don't wait for severe pain (as needed): If using Clinoril "as needed" for pain, don't wait until the pain worsens to take it.
• Don't neglect to report worsening conditions: Inform your healthcare provider if your condition doesn't improve or gets worse while taking Clinoril.

Common Side Effects:

• Upset stomach
• Heartburn
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Rash
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)

Serious Side Effects:

• Increased risk of serious heart and blood vessel problems, such as heart attack and stroke
• Serious stomach ulcers or bleeding
• Liver damage
• Kidney problems
• Allergic reactions
• Serious skin reactions, such as blistering, peeling, or rash

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Clinoril,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Disclose any allergies to sulindac, aspirin, other NSAIDs, or inactive ingredients before starting Clinoril.

Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about:

• Asthma (especially worsened by aspirin or NSAIDs)
• Blood disorders (anemia, bleeding/clotting problems)
• Nasal polyps
• Heart disease (previous heart attack)
• High blood pressure
• Kidney stones or disease
• Liver disease
• Stroke
• Swelling (edema)
• Stomach/intestinal/esophageal problems (bleeding, heartburn, ulcers)

Clinoril can cause kidney problems, especially for those dehydrated, with heart failure/kidney disease, older adults, or those taking certain medications (see Drug Interactions). Drink plenty of fluids and tell your healthcare provider about pink/bloody urine or unusual changes in urination.

Clinoril may cause dizziness. Avoid driving or activities requiring alertness until you know how it affects you. Limit alcohol and marijuana use, which can worsen dizziness.

Clinoril may cause stomach bleeding. Limit alcohol and tobacco use, as they can increase this risk.

Clinoril can increase sun sensitivity. Limit sun exposure, use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing. Tell your healthcare provider about sunburn, blisters, or skin redness.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications (including prescriptions, non-prescription, and herbal products) before any surgery.

Older adults may experience greater risks for stomach/intestinal bleeding, kidney problems, heart attack, and stroke while using Clinoril.

Clinoril may harm an unborn baby and cause delivery problems. Discuss pregnancy plans with your healthcare provider. Clinoril is not recommended after 20 weeks of pregnancy. If necessary between 20-30 weeks, use the lowest dose for the shortest time possible. Discontinue use after 30 weeks. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding as Clinoril may pass into breast milk.