Concerns About Medication Side Effects for Herniated Disc Pain Relief

Q: Concerns About Medication Side Effects for Herniated Disc Pain Relief

Hello, I am Pharmacist Zheng： In your message, you mentioned that you are experiencing significant pain due to a herniated disc and are taking the following two medications： 1. <br>PURFEN F.C. <br>TAB 400G, three tablets with each meal... <br>but the pain does not decrease... <br

Please provide the names of the medications you would like to inquire about?

I have a herniated disc that has caused a lot of pain.
I am currently taking the following medications and would like to know if there will be any side effects.
I am taking Purfen (F.C.
TAB 400 mg) three tablets with each meal, but the pain does not seem to decrease.
I am also taking Sticine (TAB 2 mg) from "KINGDOM," one tablet with each meal, but I experience severe fatigue after taking it.
I am concerned about the potential consequences of these medications.
Thank you.

ren, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/03

Dr. Zheng Yizhan reply Pharmacology

Hello, I am Pharmacist Zheng: In your message, you mentioned that you are experiencing significant pain due to a herniated disc and are taking the following two medications: 1.
PURFEN F.C.
TAB 400G, three tablets with each meal...
but the pain does not decrease...
2.
STICINE TAB 2MG "KINGDOM," one tablet with each meal...
but it causes severe fatigue after taking it...
3.
You are unsure if taking these medications could lead to serious consequences...
Thank you.
If you provide more information, I can better address your needs.
1.
What is your age and weight? 2.
Some details in your message regarding your dosage are unclear.
3.
There may be some typographical errors (e.g., "g" or "mg"? ("STICINE" OR "STIDINE")? I will respond based on the product information and parts of MIMS concise prescriptions.
1.
Regarding PURFEN F.C.
TAB 400G taken three tablets with each meal...
but the pain does not decrease: Answer: Is PURFEN F.C.
TAB 400G actually PURFEN F.C.
TAB 400 MG? How many times a day do you take three tablets? According to the instructions for PURFEN F.C.
400 MG (Ibuprofen), this medication is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with analgesic effects.
[Indications]: Anti-inflammatory and analgesic (chronic rheumatoid arthritis, joint pain and arthritis, neuralgia and neuritis, back pain, post-surgical and traumatic pain).
[Dosage and Administration]: For rheumatoid arthritis and degenerative arthritis: Recommended adult dosage: 1200mg to 3200mg per day (400mg, three to four times a day).
General dosage is 30-40 mg/kg/day divided into 3-4 doses.
Patients with milder conditions may use 20mg/kg/day.
Safety has not been established for doses exceeding 50mg/kg/day, and such use is not recommended.
[Precautions]: 1.
Contraindicated in patients allergic to this medication.
2.
Use with caution in patients with peptic ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding.
3.
This medication may occasionally cause fluid retention or edema; therefore, patients with hypertension and heart failure should use it cautiously.
4.
Like other NSAIDs, it may inhibit platelet aggregation, thereby prolonging bleeding time.
5.
This medication may affect liver function test results.
6.
There have been rare cases of aseptic meningitis associated with this medication.
7.
Long-term use may increase the risk of acute interstitial nephritis.
8.
This medication may increase the toxicity of Methotrexate and reduce the diuretic effect of Furosemide.
9.
This medication may increase lithium serum levels.
10.
Not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women.
[Side Effects]: This medication may occasionally cause discomfort, but the incidence is low.
A very small number of patients may experience headache, nervousness, flushing, loss of appetite, and edema.
2.
Regarding STICINE TAB 2MG "KINGDOM," taken one tablet with each meal...
but it causes severe fatigue: I could not find information online for STICINE, but I found STIDINE, which is Tizanidine.
It is used to treat spasticity and painful muscle spasms caused by neurological disorders.
If you are using STIDINE, our institution does not use this medication, so I will provide information based on MIMS concise prescriptions as follows: TIZANIDINE (STIDINE, Kingdom Pharmaceutical) [Indications]: Spasms caused by neurological abnormalities and painful muscle tightness.
[Dosage and Administration]: For painful muscle spasms: 2 to 4 mg, 3 to 4 times daily; for spasms due to neurological abnormalities: optimal daily dose is 12 to 24 mg, with a maximum daily dose of less than 36 mg.
[Precautions]: Patients with impaired kidney or liver function must have their dosage adjusted.
Patients may experience drowsiness when starting treatment and should be advised not to engage in activities requiring high alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
Safety in pregnant, breastfeeding women, and children is unknown, and use is not recommended.
[Adverse Reactions]: Side effects may include drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, and slight hypotension.
Additionally, muscle weakness and insomnia may occur.
Instances of hypotension and bradycardia have been observed.
3.
Regarding your concern about whether taking these medications could lead to serious consequences...
[Response]: Each individual's constitution is different, so I cannot provide a definitive answer.
However, it is advisable to use caution when taking these medications, and if you experience any discomfort, you should consult your physician.

Reply Date: 2005/05/03

More Info

When dealing with a herniated disc, it is common to experience significant pain and discomfort, which can lead to the prescription of various medications for relief. In your case, you mentioned taking two specific medications: Purfen (a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID) and Sticine (which contains diazepam, a benzodiazepine). Let's break down the potential side effects and concerns associated with these medications, as well as their effectiveness in treating your symptoms.

Purfen (Ibuprofen)
Purfen, which contains ibuprofen, is commonly used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. While it can be effective for managing pain associated with conditions like a herniated disc, it is important to be aware of its potential side effects:
1. Gastrointestinal Issues: Long-term use of NSAIDs can lead to gastrointestinal problems, including ulcers, bleeding, and stomach upset. If you experience any unusual stomach pain, black stools, or vomiting blood, you should seek medical attention immediately.

2. Kidney Function: Prolonged use of NSAIDs can affect kidney function, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney issues. Regular monitoring of kidney function may be necessary if you are on these medications for an extended period.

3. Cardiovascular Risks: There is an increased risk of heart attack and stroke associated with long-term NSAID use, particularly in individuals with existing cardiovascular conditions.

4. Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to NSAIDs, which can manifest as rashes, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Sticine (Diazepam)
Sticine, which contains diazepam, is primarily used for its muscle relaxant and anxiolytic properties. While it can help alleviate muscle spasms and anxiety, it also comes with a range of potential side effects:
1. Sedation and Fatigue: As you mentioned, one of the side effects of diazepam is significant fatigue. This can impair your ability to perform daily activities and may affect your overall quality of life. It is essential to avoid operating heavy machinery or driving while under the influence of this medication.

2. Dependence and Withdrawal: Diazepam is a benzodiazepine, which means there is a risk of developing a dependence on the medication, especially with long-term use. If you decide to stop taking it, you may experience withdrawal symptoms, which can include anxiety, insomnia, and seizures.

3. Cognitive Impairment: Long-term use of benzodiazepines can lead to cognitive decline, including memory issues and difficulties with concentration.

4. Interactions with Other Medications: Diazepam can interact with other medications, leading to increased sedation or other adverse effects. It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.

Conclusion and Recommendations
Given your experience of persistent pain despite taking these medications, it may be worth discussing your treatment plan with your healthcare provider. They may consider adjusting your medication regimen or exploring alternative therapies, such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, or even injections for pain relief.

It's also essential to monitor for any side effects from the medications you are taking. If you experience severe fatigue from Sticine, it may be necessary to evaluate whether the benefits of the medication outweigh the drawbacks. Additionally, if Purfen is not effectively managing your pain, your doctor might suggest other pain management strategies, including different NSAIDs or adjunct therapies.

In summary, while both Purfen and Sticine can be effective for managing pain associated with a herniated disc, they come with potential side effects that should be carefully considered. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider will help ensure that you are on the most appropriate and effective treatment plan for your condition.

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