Precautions and Warnings With Diclofenac Sodium

Being aware of diclofenac sodium warnings and precautions before taking it can help ensure a safe treatment process. The drug has been reported to cause heart attack or stroke, so the smallest effective dose should be taken for the shortest period of time. Safety concerns with diclofenac sodium also extend to people with known high blood pressure or heart failure, since the medication may make either condition worse.

Diclofenac Sodium: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking diclofenac sodium (Voltaren®, Voltaren®-XR) if you have:
 
Let your healthcare provider know if you:
 
  • Are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant
  • 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.
 
This article does not apply to diclofenac sodium gel (Voltaren® Gel and Solaraze®) or diclofenac sodium eye drops (Voltaren Ophthalmic®).
 
(Precautions and Warnings With Diclofenac Sodium Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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