Side Effects of Diclofenac Potassium

Common side effects of diclofenac potassium may include abdominal pain (or stomach pain), heartburn or indigestion, dizziness, and gas. Some people may also experience more serious side effects that can be a sign of heart attack or stroke, such as chest pain, slurred speech, and weakness on one part of the body. If you develop any of these serious side effects of diclofenac potassium, be sure to seek medical attention immediately.

 

Side Effects of Diclofenac Potassium: An Introduction

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with diclofenac potassium (Cataflam®). However, not everyone who takes the medicine will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate diclofenac potassium well. When people do develop diclofenac potassium side effects, in many cases they are minor, meaning they require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(The diclofenac potassium side effects discussed below are not a complete list of side effects reported with diclofenac potassium. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of side effects with you.)
 

Common Side Effects of Diclofenac Potassium

Diclofenac potassium has been studied extensively in clinical trials, with thousands of people worldwide having been evaluated. In these studies, side effects are always documented and compared to those that occur in a similar group of people not taking the medicine. Based on these studies, the most common diclofenac potassium side effects include:
 
  • Abdominal pain (or stomach pain)
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Heartburn or indigestion (dyspepsia)
  • Gas
  • Unexplained bleeding
  • An ulcer in the stomach or intestines (peptic ulcer)
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Anemia
  • Dizziness
  • Swelling
  • An increase in liver enzymes
  • Headache
  • Itching
  • Unexplained rash
  • Ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
     
(Side Effects of Diclofenac Potassium Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;