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 Tablets

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:

Asthma
Heart disease, including congestive heart failure
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Liver disease, such as cirrhosis, liver failure, or hepatitis
Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal 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 (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

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)