Diclofenac Side Effects

Serious Side Effects of Diclofenac

Potentially fatal gastrointestinal problems such as inflammation, bleeding, perforation, and ulceration of the stomach or intestines.
In some cases, Diclofenac caused liver failure due to hepatoxicity.
Kidney failure.
Increased risk of stroke.
Mental side effects such as depression and anxiety.

Common Side Effects of Diclofenac

Gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea, bloating, nausea, and constipation
Tinnitus or ringing in the ears
Dizziness
Disruption of menstrual cycle
Itching and rash
Blurred vision

Warnings & Recalls for Diclofenac

Diclofenac Recalls

On September 7th, 2011, Pfizer, Inc. recalled Arthrotec 75, which is a combination of 75 mg of diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg of misoprostol 60 count bottles due to broken tablets. The NDC (National Drug Code) is 0025-1421-60 and the recall number is D-1000-2011. This recall includes lot numbers C090912 Exp. 02/13, C091184 Exp. 02/13, C091234 Exp. 04/13, C100256 Exp. 09/13 and C100320 Exp.09/13.

On May 7th, 2010, Apotex, Inc. recalled Diclofenac Potassium tablets, 50 mg and 100-count bottles due to cross-contamination. The NDC is 60505-0135-0 and the recall number is D-848-2010. This recall includes lot numbers HX3581 and HZ4734, Exp 09/10, HZ4735 and JD1676, Exp 01/11.

Warnings

Do not take Diclofenac if you have irritable bowel syndrome or an inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's or ulcerative colitis.
There is an increased risk for heart attack or stroke associated with NSAIDs such as Diclofenac. Patients with cardiovascular disease have a greater risk for heart attack when taking Diclofenac.
In 2009, the FDA warned healthcare professionals that products with diclofenac can cause potentially fatal hepatoxicity or liver damage.
Diclofenac should be avoided if the patient has stomach ulcers or intestinal bleeding.
Do not use Diclofenac immediately before or after heart surgery.
Take the lowest effective dose possible for the shortest time needed. Prolonged use of Diclofenac increases the chances of severe adverse affects.
Notify your doctor if you have bloody stools or bloody vomit from taking Diclofenac.
NSAIDs may cause or worsen hypertension.
Diclofenac is a pregnancy category C drug before 30 weeks of gestation and a category D drug after 30 weeks of gestation. Diclofenac may harm an unborn fetus, especially during the last 3 months of pregnancy and may also pass through breast milk during breastfeeding.
When taken with other NSAIDs such as aspirin or anticoagulants such as Warfarin, Diclofenac may cause severe gastrointestinal bleeding.

Diclofenac Treatment and Use

Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to treat inflammation due to rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, menstrual pain as well as other inflammatory conditions, and general pain management. Diclofenac is also used to treat pain associated with cancer. There is evidence it might be effective against E. coli urinary tract infections. Diclofenac is a common drug available from numerous manufacturers worldwide.

Diclofenac is often formulated in potassium salt and sodium forms. Although not classified as a diuretic drug, it is an antiuricosuric.

How does Diclofenac work?

Diclofenac reduces fever, pain, and inflammation by blocking cyclooxygenase, an enyzme that produces inflammatory compounds in the body. A single dose typically lasts 6-8 hours.

Diclofenac dosage

Diclofenac is available in a variety of formulations

25 and 50 mg enteric coated tablets
25 and 50 mg fast disintegrating oral tablets
75, 100 and 150mg extended release tablets
50 mg powder for oral solution
50 and 75 mg injectables
50 and 100mg suppositories

Pain Management

The initial oral dose of Diclofenac Potassium for pain management is 100mg. After the initial dosage, reduce to 50 mg. The patient may also take 3 50mg doses a day. Daily doses that exceed 150 mg are not recommended for most patients.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

The initial oral dose for rheumatoid arthritis is 50mg 3-4 times a day or 75mg twice a day. If the patient has been prescribed extended release tablets, then the dose is 100mg once a day. The dosage for rheumatoid arthritis should not exceed 225mg a day.

Osteoarthritis

The initial oral dose for osteoarthritis is 50mg 2-3 times a day or 75mg twice a day. Dosage usually should not exceed 150mg a day.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

The initial oral dose for anklyosing spondylitis is 25mg 4 times daily. If needed, another 25 mg dose can be taken before bedtime.

Other Names for Diclofenac

Brand Names

Cambia

Cataflam

Difene

Flector Patch

Voltaren

Generic Name

Diclofenac