Drugs and Supplements

Prescription Drugs

Trilisate, Choline magnesium trisalicylate, side effects, drug interactions, overdose, dosage
Brand name:

Trilisate

Generic name: Choline magnesium trisalicylate


Why is Trilisate prescribed?

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Trilisate, a nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory medication, is prescribed for the relief of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (chronic joint inflammation disease), osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease), and other forms of arthritis. This drug is used in the long-term management of these diseases and especially for flare-ups of severe rheumatoid arthritis.

Trilisate may also be prescribed for the treatment of acute painful shoulder, for mild to moderate pain in general, and for fever.

In children, this medication is prescribed for severe conditions—such as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis—that require relief of pain and inflammation.


Most important fact about Trilisate

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Because there is a possible association between the development of the rare but serious nerve disorder known as Reye's syndrome and the use of medicines containing salicylates or aspirin during bouts of chickenpox or flu, Trilisate should not be used by children or teenagers during these illnesses unless otherwise advised by their doctor.


How should you take Trilisate?

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Trilisate is available in tablet or liquid form. Take Trilisate exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

  • If you miss a dose...
    If you take Trilisate on a regular schedule, take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
  • Storage instructions...
    Store at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

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Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Trilisate.

  • Side effects may include:
    Constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, ringing in the ears, stomach pain and upset, vomiting

Why should Trilisate not be prescribed?

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If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Trilisate or drugs of this type, such as aspirin, you should not take this medication. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.


Special warnings about Trilisate

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Use Trilisate with caution if you have severe or recurring kidney or liver disorder, gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining), or a stomach or intestinal ulcer. Be cautious, too, if you routinely have three or more alcoholic drinks per day. This increases the risk of stomach problems.

If you are an asthmatic allergic to aspirin, tell your doctor before taking Trilisate.

It may be 2 to 3 weeks before you feel the effect of this medication.

If you are an older adult, you are more likely to suffer side effects from Trilisate.


Possible food and drug interactions when taking Trilisate

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If Trilisate is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Trilisate with the following:

Antacids such as Gaviscon and Maalox

Antigout medications

Blood-thinners such as Coumadin

Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors such as acetazolamide (Diamox) used to treat heart failure, the eye condition called glaucoma, and certain convulsive disorders

Diabetes medications such as insulin, Micronase, and Tolinase

Methotrexate, an anticancer drug

Other salicylates used to reduce fever, inflammation, and pain, such as aspirin

Phenytoin (the seizure medication Dilantin)

Steroids such as prednisone

Valproic acid (the seizure medication Depakene)


Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

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The effects of Trilisate during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. This drug does appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you not to breastfeed until your treatment is finished.


Recommended dosage for Trilisate

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ADULTS


In rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, more severe arthritis, and acute painful shoulder, the recommended starting dose is 1,500 milligrams taken 2 times a day or 3,000 milligrams taken once a day. Your doctor will adjust the dosage based on your response to this medication.

If you have a kidney disorder, your doctor will monitor you and adjust your dose accordingly.

For mild to moderate pain or to reduce a high fever, the usual dosage is 2,000 to 3,000 milligrams per day divided into 2 equal doses as recommended by your doctor.

CHILDREN


For reduction of inflammation or pain, the recommended dose for children is determined by weight. The usual dose for children who weigh 81 pounds or less is 50 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight, taken twice a day. For heavier children, the usual dose is 2,250 milligrams per day, divided into 2 doses.

Trilisate liquid can be taken by younger children and by adults who are unable to swallow a tablet.

OLDER ADULTS


The usual dosage is 2,250 milligrams divided into 3 doses of 750 milligrams each.


Overdosage

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Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical treatment immediately. An overdose of Trilisate can be fatal.

  • Symptoms of Trilisate overdose may include:
    Confusion, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, hearing impairment, rapid breathing, ringing in the ears, sweating, vomiting