Diclofenac is in a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Diclofenac works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Diclofenac is used to reduce pain, inflammation and stiffness caused by many conditions, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, abdominal cramps associated with menstruation, and ankylosing spondylitis.
Diclofenac may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Special precautions
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you:
- have an allergy to aspirin or any other NSAIDs
- have an ulcer or bleeding in your stomach,
- drink more than three alcoholic beverages a day,
- have liver disease,
- have kidney disease,
- have a coagulation (bleeding) disorder,
- have congestive heart failure,
- have fluid retention,
- have heart disease, or
- have high blood pressure.
- You may not be able to take Diclofenac, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
- Diclofenac is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Diclofenac should not be taken late in pregnancy (the third trimester) because a similar drug is known to affect the baby's heart. Do not take Diclofenac without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
- Diclofenac passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Do not take this medicine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Side effects
- Contact your doctor if you experience blood in vomit or bloody, black, or tarry stools. These symptoms could indicate damage to the stomach or intestines, which could be dangerous.
- If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Diclofenac and seek medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
- an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
- muscle cramps, numbness, or tingling;
- ulcers (open sores) in the mouth;
- rapid weight gain (fluid retention);
- seizures;
- decreased hearing or ringing in the ears;
- yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice); or
- abdominal cramping, indigestion, or heartburn.
- Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take diclofenac and talk to your doctor if you experience
- dizziness or headache;
- nausea, diarrhea, or constipation;
- depression;
- fatigue or weakness;
- dry mouth; or
- irregular menstrual periods.
- Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
