What Is Nabumetone? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Nabumetone is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat the pain and inflammation of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. First approved by the FDA in December 1991 under the brand name Relafen, it has been available as a generic for many years and is considered an established, well-studied treatment for chronic arthritis.

What Is Nabumetone Used For?

Nabumetone is FDA-approved to relieve the signs and symptoms of:

Osteoarthritis (OA): The most common form of arthritis, caused by the gradual breakdown of cartilage in joints. Nabumetone helps reduce pain, stiffness, and swelling in joints affected by OA.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the joints, causing chronic inflammation, pain, and joint damage. Nabumetone addresses the inflammatory symptoms of RA, though it is not a disease-modifying agent.

Off-label, nabumetone may be used for mild to moderate musculoskeletal pain and back pain, though these are not FDA-approved uses.

What Form Does Nabumetone Come In?

Nabumetone is available only as an oral tablet. Current strengths include:

500 mg tablet

750 mg tablet

1,000 mg tablet (also sold as Relafen DS)

The original Relafen brand has been discontinued. Generic nabumetone is available from multiple manufacturers. Relafen DS (1,000 mg) remains a brand option.

What Is the Usual Nabumetone Dosage?

For adults, the typical dosing is:

Starting dose: 1,000 mg once daily

Maintenance dose: 1,000–2,000 mg per day, taken as a single dose or divided into two doses

Maximum dose: 2,000 mg per day

Lower-weight patients (under 50 kg): May not require doses above 1,000 mg

Severe kidney impairment (CrCl <30 mL/min): Start at 500 mg/day; do not exceed 1,000 mg/day

Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary. Your doctor will adjust your dose based on how well it controls your symptoms.

How Should I Take Nabumetone?

Take nabumetone with or without food — taking it with food, milk, or an antacid can reduce stomach upset

Take at the same time each day for consistent pain control

Do not take more than prescribed — taking extra won't speed up pain relief and increases side effect risk

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture

When Does Nabumetone Start Working?

Nabumetone generally takes longer to start working than some other NSAIDs. It typically takes about 1–2 hours to feel some effect, but it may take up to one week of consistent use to achieve full pain and inflammation control. For chronic arthritis, the full benefit is usually apparent after 2–4 weeks of regular use.

Who Should Not Take Nabumetone?

People allergic to nabumetone, aspirin, or other NSAIDs

Patients scheduled for or recovering from CABG (heart bypass) surgery

Pregnant women (especially after 30 weeks gestation — may cause premature closure of the ductus arteriosus)

Patients with severe kidney impairment (advanced renal disease) — use is generally not recommended

Patients with a history of aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (aspirin triad: asthma + nasal polyps + NSAID sensitivity)

For a complete list of side effects and warnings, see our guide on nabumetone side effects. And if you're having trouble filling your prescription, medfinder can help you locate nabumetone in stock near you.