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Diclofenac Sodium

 

Diclofenac Sodium (generic Voltaren) Review

brand names: Voltaren, Cataflam (Diclofenac potassium)
generic name: Diclofenac sodium

Why is Voltaren prescribed?

Voltaren and Cataflam are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used to relieve the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis), and ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis and stiffness of the spine). Voltaren-XR, the extended-release form of Voltaren, is used only for long-term treatment. Cataflam is also prescribed for immediate relief of pain and menstrual discomfort.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Do not take this drug late in your pregnancy; it could harm the baby. Check with your doctor before taking the drug early in pregnancy; it should be used only if necessary. The drug does appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with Voltaren (Diclofenac) is finished.

People with rheumatoid arthritis should not take more than 225 milligrams a day.

Osteoarthritis

The usual dose is 100 to 150 milligrams a day, divided into smaller doses of 50 milligrams 2 or 3 times a day (for Voltaren or Cataflam) or 75 milligrams twice a day (for Voltaren (Diclofenac)). The usual dose of Voltaren-XR (extended-release) is 100 milligrams taken once a day.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

The usual dose is 100 to 200 milligrams a day, 75 milligrams twice a day (for Voltaren), divided into smaller doses of 50 milligrams 3 to 4 times a day (for Voltaren or Cataflam), or 100 milligrams once or twice a day (for Voltaren (Diclofenac)-XR).

Ankylosing Spondylitis

The usual dose is 100 to 125 milligrams of Voltaren (Diclofenac) a day, divided into smaller doses of 25 milligrams 4 times a day, with another 25 milligrams at bedtime if necessary.

Pain and menstrual discomfort

The usual starting dose of Cataflam is 50 milligrams every 8 hours as needed, although to provide better relief on the first day doctors sometimes prescribe a starting dose of 100 milligrams followed by two 50-milligram doses. After the first day, you should not take more than 150 milligrams in a day.

CHILDREN

The safety and effectiveness of Voltaren (Diclofenac) have not been established in children.

Most important fact about Voltaren (Diclofenac)

You should have frequent checkups with your doctor if you take Voltaren (Diclofenac) regularly. Ulcers or internal bleeding can occur without warning.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Voltaren (Diclofenac).

• More common side effects may include:
  Abdominal bleeding, ringing in the ears, rash, peptic ulcers, nausea, itching, indigestion, heartburn, headache, gas, fluid retention, dizziness, diarrhea, constipation, blood clotting problems, anemia, abdominal swelling, abdominal pain or cramps, vomiting

How should you take Voltaren (Diclofenac)?

To minimize stomach upset and related side effects, milk, your doctor may recommend taking this medicine with food, or an antacid. However, this may delay onset of relief.

Take this medication exactly as prescribed.

Take this drug with a full glass of water. Also, do not lie down for about 20 minutes after taking it. This will help to prevent irritation in your upper digestive tract.

--If you miss a dose...

If you take this medicine on a regular schedule, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature. Keep the container tightly closed and protect from moisture.

Special warnings about Voltaren (Diclofenac)

Remember that this medication has been known to cause peptic ulcers and bleeding. Contact your doctor immediately if you suspect a problem.

Rare cases of meningitis (inflammation of the membrane enclosing the brain) have been linked to this medication. If symptoms such as fever and coma develop, alert the doctor immediately.

In rare instances, this drug may also affect your vision. If you notice any problems, stop taking the drug and check with your doctor.

Use this drug cautiously if you have kidney problems, heart disease, or high blood pressure. It can cause fluid retention.

This medication can also cause liver problems. If you develop signs of liver disease such as or flu-like symptoms, tenderness in the upper right area of your abdomen, yellowish eyes and skin, itching, lethargy, fatigue, nausea, notify your doctor at once.