Special Diets

Before taking salsalate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to aspirin or other NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib); or to salicylic acid; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, diabetes, stomach/intestine/esophagus problems (such as bleeding, ulcers, recurring heartburn), heart disease (such as history of heart attack), high blood pressure, stroke, swelling of the ankles/feet/hands, blood disorders (such as anemia), bleeding/clotting problems, asthma (including a history of worsening breathing after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs), growths in the nose (nasal polyps), certain genetic conditions (G-6-PD deficiency, pyruvate kinase deficiency).

Kidney problems can sometimes occur with the use of NSAID medications, including salsalate. Problems are more likely to occur if you are dehydrated, have heart failure or kidney disease, are an older adult, or if you take certain medications (see also Drug Interactions section). Drink plenty of fluids as directed by your doctor to prevent dehydration and tell your doctor right away if you have a change in the amount of urine.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol and tobacco, especially when combined with this medicine, may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Limit alcohol and stop smoking. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Older adults may be at greater risk for stomach bleeding and kidney problems.

This medication is similar to aspirin. Children and teenagers younger than 18 years should not take this medication if they have chickenpox, flu, or any undiagnosed illness, or if they have just been given a live virus vaccine, without first consulting a doctor about Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious illness.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you plan to become pregnant. This medication may harm an unborn baby and cause problems with normal labor/delivery. It is not recommended for use in pregnancy from 20 weeks until delivery. If your doctor decides that you need to use this medication between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy, you should use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. You should not use this medication after 30 weeks of pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This drug may pass into breast milk and could have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Breastfeeding is not recommended while using this drug long-term and in high doses. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.