VIMOVO (NAPROXEN/ESOMEPRAZOLE)

Vimovo Description

Vimovo is prescribed to treat symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis when there is a high risk for stomach ulcers. There is no cure for arthritis so a long-term medication is required to help minimize symptoms and allow you relief and the ability to function on a daily basis. Some NSAIDs can reduce the inflammatory chemicals in your stomach which then jeopardizes the protection of the mucus lining and increased risk of ulcers.

Two Active Ingredients to Relieve Arthritis Pain

Vimovo contains a combination of Naproxen; a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces substances in the body that cause inflammation, pain, and fever. And Esomeprazole; a proton pump inhibitor that decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach which helps reduce the possibility of stomach ulcers in people who may be at risk for them while receiving treatment with an NSAID.

The formulation of Vimovo tablets means that there is a delayed painkilling effect of the Naproxen. Vimovo is not intended for relieving acute pain such as dental pain or gout because it does not work quickly enough. Vimovo is suitable for treatment of ongoing long-term conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, which require anti-inflammatory painkillers to be taken on a regular basis to provide a continuous background level of pain relief.

Reasons for Taking Vimovo

Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that is caused by the breakdown of a joint’s cartilage. This breakdown allows bones to rub against each other, causing inflammation, stiffness, pain, and loss of movement in the joint. Factors such as weight, aging, heredity, joint injury or stress and muscle weakness can contribute to osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that involves your own immune system attacking the soft tissues in your joints called synovium that helps lubricate the joints so they move fluidly. Bone and cartilage is destroyed and mobility is greatly affected.

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a highly variable disease that causes very different symptoms. Some individuals may only experience episodes of mild back pain, while others will have severe chronic pain accompanied by stiffness of the spine affecting their posture and daily activities.

Before Vimovo is Prescribed

Discuss other medical conditions or allergies you have and list any OTC or Rx drugs you currently take or use, including herbal remedies and vitamin or dietary supplements so your doctor can determine if Vimovo is safe for you to take. If you are still child-bearing age, ask your doctor if taking Vimovo poses any health risks to your unborn or nursing baby.

Vimovo Precautions

NSAIDs may cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Patients with cardiovascular disease or risk factors for cardiovascular disease may be at greater risk so visit your doctor often so you can be monitored for any signs of declining heart health.

Possible Side Effects of Vimovo

• Diarrhea
• Heartburn
• Dizziness
• Upset stomach

You should contact your doctor if you experience any of the following more serious side effects associated with Vimovo: easy bruising or bleeding; signs of a lung infection, such as trouble breathing; difficult or painful swallowing; unexplained weight gain; swelling of the hands or feet; hearing changes.