Duexis (Famotidine/Ibuprofen)

Duexis is a medicine that contains ibuprofen (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug [NSAID]) and famotidine (a medicine that helps to reduce the acid in your stomach). Duexis is used to relieve the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Duexis also decreases the risk of developing ulcers of the stomach and upper intestines in people who are taking ibuprofen for rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Duexis can cause serious problems (such as heart attack or stroke). Your risk can increase when this medication is used for long periods of time and in people who have heart disease. Tell your doctor if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or slurred speech. Also, Duexis can cause heart failure, which can lead to weight gain or edema (swelling). Duexis can cause discomfort, ulcers, or bleeding in your stomach or intestines. Your risk can increase with long-term use, smoking, drinking alcohol, older age, or with certain medications. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience abdominal pain or if you have bloody vomit or stools. Long-term use of Duexis can cause kidney injury. Your risk can increase if you have kidney impairment; heart failure; liver problems; are taking certain medications, including diuretics (water pills) (such as furosemide) or blood/heart medications known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (such as lisinopril); or are elderly. Also, Duexis can cause liver injury. Tell your doctor if you experience nausea, tiredness, weakness, itchiness, yellowing of your skin or whites of your eyes, right upper abdominal tenderness, or “flu-like” symptoms. Duexis can cause allergic reactions resembling anaphylaxis (a serious and rapid allergic reaction that may result in death if not immediately treated). Stop taking Duexis and tell your doctor immediately if you experience difficulty breathing or swelling of your face, mouth, or throat. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience serious skin reactions which can be characterized by a severe rash, fever, or itchiness.