Diclofenac

Diclofenac is the generic name for various prescription non-steroid, anti-inflammatory pain relief medications (NSAIDs). Novartis AG manufactures and sells the drug under the brand names Cataflam and Voltaren-XR. Pfizer Inc. also markets its version of the drug as Arthrotec.

Diclofenac relieves many symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It stops the body's production of a substance that causes pain, fever, and inflammation. Fast-acting diclofenac tablets also help patients suffering from painful menstrual periods and other types of pain.

Like many other prescription medications, Diclofenac has adverse side effects that can harm people taking the drug. Some of these side effects are severe and can lead to serious medical conditions and even death.

This article will discuss the adverse side effects of Diclofenac. It will also briefly explain what patients should do before taking the drug.

Diclofenac Side Effects

When you first start taking a new medication, there are bound to be side effects. It would be best to look out for these adverse effects so you can tell your healthcare professional about them. Also, be mindful of any allergic reactions you experience, as these can be extremely dangerous.

Clinical trials show that some of the common side effects of Diclofenac include:

• Diarrhea
• Constipation and other gastrointestinal problems
• Gas or bloating
• Trouble breathing
• Skin reactions such as dermatitis
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Ringing in the ears

There are many other potential side effects you may experience when taking diclofenac. There are some serious side effects.

Contact your healthcare professional immediately if you experience any of the following adverse events:

• Unexplained weight gain
• Excessive tiredness or lack of energy
• Pain in the upper right part of the stomach
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Flu-like symptoms
• Fever
• Blisters, rash, hives, or swelling of the eyes, face, tongue, lips, throat, or extremities
• Rapid heartbeat
• Cloudy, discolored, painful, or bloody urine
• Back pain

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reported these side effects. The FDA has also stated that patients who take NSAIDS like Diclofenac may suffer from extreme reactions, such as hypertension, liver disease, kidney problems, and an increased risk of heart failure. We will discuss these in more detail below.

Diclofenac Health Risks: Heart Attack, Stroke, and Ulcers

People who take NSAIDs other than aspirin, such as diclofenac, may have a higher risk of heart attack or stroke. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or weakness in one part or side of the body, seek medical attention immediately.

Given these increased risks, you should not take this medication if you will be undergoing a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG).

NSAIDs may also cause ulcers, bleeding, or holes in the stomach or intestine. If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop taking diclofenac and call your healthcare professional:

• Stomach pain
• Heartburn
• Vomiting a substance that is bloody or looks like coffee grounds
• Blood in the stool
• Black and tarry stools

Cardiovascular or bleeding problems can develop at any time during NSAID use and may cause death. Serious health risks may be higher for certain patients who take NSAIDs, including:

• People who take NSAIDs for an extended period
• Older patients
• People in poor health
• Those patients who drink large amounts of alcohol

Before you decide whether to take Diclofenac, you need to consider the side effects. Sit down with your doctor and discuss any potential drug interactions. While some side effects are minor, they can lead to more significant problems later.

Diclofenac Precautions

If you are taking Diclofenac or any other NSAID, communicate regularly with your doctor. This way, they can adjust your doses of diclofenac to reduce the risk of severe side effects. Your healthcare professional will monitor your symptoms carefully and order tests to check your body's response to diclofenac.

You must also read the manufacturer's medication guide before you begin using a medication. Contact your healthcare professional or pharmacist if you have questions about the drug or its side effects.

You may find that you aren't a good candidate for Diclofenac. If the potential risks are too high, your doctor will find an alternate medication to treat your condition.

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Professional Before They Prescribe Diclofenac?

You must have an upfront conversation with your doctor before taking Diclofenac. Inform them of any allergies you have. Please make sure they are aware of all other medications you are taking.

Let your physician know if you or anyone in your family has ever had heart disease, a heart attack, or a stroke. Also, you must advise your healthcare professional of any of the following:

• Whether you're a smoker
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Ulcers
• Bleeding in your stomach or intestines
• Bleeding disorder
• Asthma
• Lupus
• Liver disease
• Kidney disease (renal failure)

Any of these medical conditions can make it extremely dangerous to take drugs like Diclofenac. Women considering taking this drug should also discuss any current or potential pregnancy or breast-feeding.

Interactions Between Diclofenac and Other Drugs or Foods

You may wonder if diclofenac interacts with other medications or herbal supplements. The answer is yes. Always tell your healthcare professional about all medicines, supplements, and other products you take.

Diclofenac can be primarily reactive with:

• Anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as Warfarin (Coumadin)
• Aspirin
• Over-the-counter NSAIDS such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn)
• Oral steroids
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
• Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune)
• Digoxin (Lanoxin)
• Diuretics ("water pills")
• Insulin and oral medication for diabetes
• Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid)
• Methotrexate (Rheumatrex)

What To Do if You Sustain an Injury From Using Diclofenac

Whether you're taking enteric-coated tablets, delayed-release tablets, extended-release tabs, or any other form of diclofenac potassium, you may experience adverse side effects. If you or a loved one experiences dangerous symptoms while taking this drug, contact your doctor or other healthcare professional immediately.

It may also be in your best interests to consult with a product liability attorney to discuss your options and to protect your rights. Depending on your injuries, you may be entitled to significant compensation.

Your damages may include any or all of the following:

• Medical bills and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and lost future income
• Pain and suffering

When you first meet with your attorney, let them know which medications you were taking and what side effects you experienced. Once they review your claim, they'll tell you how best to proceed.

Getting Legal Help

While medications have side effects, drug manufacturers must make their products as reasonably safe as possible. They also must inform the medical community and the public of known risks.

If the drugmaker fails to do this, the courts may hold them legally responsible for patients' injuries. Your attorney may have to prove that there were inadequate warnings or that the drug was unreasonably dangerous. You may have a valid product liability claim if you can demonstrate either.

You may also have a claim for medical malpractice if your doctor fails to tell you about the medication's risks and side effects. This is especially true if you suffer an allergic reaction or adverse drug interaction due to your physician's negligence.

Visit FindLaw.com's product liability attorney directory to find a lawyer near you.