Generic Name: Fenoprofen

  • What is this medication and its most common uses?

    Nalfon is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis.


    How does this medication work?

    Nalfon relieves pain by blocking a substance in your body that is involved in causing inflammation and pain.


    What: Nalfon has been shown to relieve pain and symptoms of arthritis, such as swelling, tenderness, and stiffness.

    When: Nalfon may improve your arthritis symptoms within a few days of taking a dose.

    How do I know it is working?

    You may feel a relief in your pain after you start taking Nalfon. This is a good indicator that the medicine is working. Your healthcare provider may ask you questions to assess how well your symptoms are controlled.

  • What are the possible side effects of this medication?





    More common side effects may include: upset stomach.

    Less common side effects may include:



    Nalfon may cause high blood pressure, anemia (low red blood cell counts), eye or kidney problems, or unexplained weight gain or swelling.

  • Who should not take this medication?

    Do not take Nalfon if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients.

    Do not take Nalfon if you have had an asthma attack, hives, or other allergic reaction with aspirin or any other NSAID (such as ibuprofen or naproxen).

    Do not take Nalfon right before or after a heart bypass surgery.

    Do not take Nalfon if you have a history of kidney problems.

    Do not take Nalfon during the late stages of your pregnancy.


    Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Nalfon. Also, talk to your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, especially if you have asthma; high blood pressure or heart failure; kidney or liver problems; a history of ulcers or bleeding in your stomach or intestines; hearing problems; if you engage in activities that require alertness; or if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

  • What is the usual dosage?



    Adults: The recommended dose is 200 milligrams (mg) every 4 to 6 hours, as needed.

    Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis

    Adults: The recommended dose is 400 to 600 mg three or four times a day. Your healthcare provider may adjust your dose as needed, until the desired effect is achieved.

  • How should I take this medication?


    Nalfon can be taken with food or milk.

  • What should I avoid while taking this medication?

    Do not take other NSAIDs in combination with Nalfon without first talking to your healthcare provider.


    If Nalfon is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your healthcare provider before combining Nalfon with the following: aspirin, blood pressure/heart medications known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (such as lisinopril and enalapril), certain diabetes medicines (such as glyburide or glipizide), lithium, methotrexate, phenobarbital, sulfonamides (such as sulfamethoxazole), warfarin, or water pills (such as furosemide or hydrochlorothiazide).


    Do not take Nalfon if you are in the late stage of your pregnancy (≥30 weeks). The effects of Nalfon during early pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Do not breastfeed while you are taking Nalfon. Tell your healthcare provider immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.



  • How should I store this medication?

    Store at room temperature.