What Is Diclofenac Sodium?
Diclofenac sodium (
Voltaren®) belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (
NSAIDs). Diclofenac sodium is used to reduce pain, inflammation, swelling, and stiffness caused by several
types of arthritis.
Who Makes Diclofenac Sodium?
Diclofenac sodium is manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals.
Uses of Diclofenac Sodium
Uses for diclofenac sodium include the relief of:
Diclofenac sodium is not a cure for these types of
arthritis, however, nor does it slow down the progression of the disease.
How Does Diclofenac Sodium Work?
Diclofenac sodium and other NSAIDs work by inhibiting the action of certain hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. These hormones are called prostaglandins.
Effects of Diclofenac Sodium
By blocking the effects of prostaglandins, diclofenac sodium is useful at reducing pain, inflammation, and joint swelling associated with different forms of arthritis and other diseases.
When and How Do I Take Diclofenac Sodium?
General considerations for when and how to take diclofenac sodium include the following:
- Diclofenac sodium comes in tablet form. It is taken by mouth.
- Your diclofenac sodium dose should be taken with a glass of water. Taking it with milk or food may prevent upset stomach.
- Do not break, chew, or crush the diclofenac sodium tablets.
- It may take several weeks for the full effects of diclofenac sodium to be felt.
- It is important to take the lowest effective dose for the least amount of time in order to treat your condition. This will decrease the chances of serious side effects.
- Diclofenac sodium should be taken at the same time each day to maintain an even level of medication in your blood.
- For diclofenac sodium to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. Diclofenac sodium will not work if you take it in a way other than how your healthcare provider recommends.
Dosing Information for Diclofenac Sodium
The dose of diclofenac sodium your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The medical condition being treated
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you are currently taking.
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Side Effects of Diclofenac Sodium
(The side effects of diclofenac sodium listed below are not a complete list of possible side effects. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with diclofenac sodium. Not everyone who takes the drug, however, will experience side effects. If side effects do occur, in many cases, they are minor, meaning that they require no treatment or are easily treated by your healthcare provider.
Common side effects with diclofenac sodium include:
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Heartburn or indigestion (dyspepsia)
- Gas
- Unexplained bleeding
- Ulcer in the stomach or intestines (peptic ulcer)
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Anemia
- Dizziness
- Swelling
- Increase in liver enzymes
- Headache
- Itching
- Unexplained rash
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
Some less common but serious side effects include:
- Cardiovascular problems, such as heart attack or stroke
- Stomach or intestinal problems, including bleeding, ulcers, or a hole (known as a perforation)
- Liver damage
- Kidney problems, including kidney failure
- Fluid retention
- Congestive heart failure
- Allergic reaction
- Unexplained rash.
These side effects are shared with all
NSAIDs and can lead to life-threatening complications or even loss of life.
Drug Interactions With Diclofenac Sodium
Diclofenac Sodium: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that people using
NSAIDs, including diclofenac sodium, may be at higher risk for
heart attack or
stroke than those who do not take NSAIDs. This warning does not apply to those who take aspirin, however. This risk may be higher in people who have been taking NSAIDs for a long time. These events can occur without warning and can lead to death. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have or have ever had any of the following:
You should also talk to your healthcare provider prior to taking diclofenac sodium if you have:
- Asthma
- Congestive heart failure
- Liver disease or liver failure
- Kidney disease or kidney failure
- Bleeding problems (or if you are taking medicine that decreases the blood's ability to clot)
- Diabetes
- Stomach ulcers, stomach bleeding, or a history of either condition
- Any allergies to medicines, including aspirin or other NSAIDs.
Let your healthcare provider know if you:
- Are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant (see Voltaren and Pregnancy)
- Are breastfeeding
- Drink alcohol frequently
- Smoke
- Are having or have recently had heart surgery.
Also, tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose of Diclofenac Sodium?
People who take too much diclofenac sodium may have overdose symptoms that could include but are not limited to:
- Bleeding
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Excessive sleepiness.
If you happen to overdose on diclofenac sodium, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Diclofenac Sodium Be Stored?
Diclofenac sodium should be stored at room temperature in an airtight container. As always, keep diclofenac sodium and all medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Diclofenac Sodium?
If you do not take your diclofenac sodium as scheduled, take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with normal dosing. Never take a double dose!
Strengths of Diclofenac Sodium
Diclofenac sodium tablets are available in several strengths, including
Generic Diclofenac Sodium
Diclofenac sodium and diclofenac sodium extended-release are both available in generic forms.
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