Pain Channel
Topics & Medications
Quicklinks
Related Channels
Diclofenac Sodium
Diclofenac sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that helps relieve pain, stiffness, and swelling caused by several types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The drug comes in tablet form, and common side effects include constipation, diarrhea, and heartburn. It's important to take the lowest possible dose of diclofenac sodium for the shortest amount of time to minimize the risk of side effects.
Interested in a Discount on Diclofenac Sodium?
Enter your email address to see if eMedTV's free DiscountRx service has a program that could help you save on your prescription(s).
Thank you!
Thank you for your interest in DiscountRx from eMedTV. An email has been sent to the address you provided. Please follow the link within that email to see what offers may be available.
Diclofenac sodium (Voltaren®, Voltaren®-XR) belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is used to reduce pain, inflammation, swelling, and stiffness caused by several types of arthritis.
This article does not apply to diclofenac sodium gel (Voltaren® Gel and Solaraze®), diclofenac sodium eye drops (Voltaren Ophthalmic®), or diclofenac sodium topical solution (Pennsaid®).
As with any medicine, diclofenac sodium may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects with diclofenac sodium include:
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Heartburn or indigestion (dyspepsia)
- Gas.
(Click Diclofenac Sodium Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects to look out for.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD