Diclofenac is a medicine used to treat pain, swelling, and tenderness that’s caused by many conditions, including arthritis, menstrual pain, migraines, and other ailments.

This medicine comes in several formulations and brands, which are used for specific purposes and may contain different amounts of the drug. For instance, the powder form (Cambia) of diclofenac is taken to treat a migraine headache. The medicine also comes as a topical treatment, which is commonly used for musculoskeletal pain.

Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation.

warnings

What is the most important information I should know about Diclofenac (Voltaren)?

Diclofenac can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke, even if you don't have any risk factors. Do not use this medicine just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

Diclofenac may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal. These conditions can occur without warning while you are using diclofenac, especially in older adults.

Do not use to treat a cluster headache. Do not use if you are allergic to beef or beef protein. CambiaZipsor

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

You should not use diclofenac if you are allergic to it, or if you have ever had an asthma attack or severe allergic reaction after taking aspirin or an NSAID.

Diclofenac can affect ovulation and it may be harder to get pregnant while you are using this medicine.

If you are pregnant, you should not take diclofenac unless your doctor tells you to. Taking an NSAID during the last 20 weeks of pregnancy can cause serious heart or kidney problems in the unborn baby and possible complications with your pregnancy.

It may not be safe to breastfeed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.

Diclofenac is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

heart disease, high blood pressure;
ulcers or bleeding in your stomach;
asthma;
liver or kidney disease; or
if you smoke.

Side Effects

What are the side effects of Diclofenac (Voltaren)?

Get emergency medical help if you have (hives, difficult breathing, swelling in your face or throat) (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling). signs of an allergic reactionor a severe skin reaction

Stop using diclofenac and seek medical treatment if you have a serious drug reaction that can affect many parts of your body. Symptoms may include skin rash, fever, swollen glands, muscle aches, severe weakness, unusual bruising, or yellowing of your skin or eyes.

Get emergency medical help if you have chest pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder, sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, feeling short of breath. signs of a heart attack or stroke:

Stop using diclofenac and call your doctor at once if you have:

the first sign of any skin rash, no matter how mild;
flu-like symptoms;
heart problems--swelling, rapid weight gain, feeling short of breath;
kidney problems--little or no urinating, painful or difficult urination, swelling in your arms or legs, feeling tired or short of breath;
liver problems--nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain (upper right side), tiredness, itching, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or
signs of stomach bleeding--bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

indigestion, gas, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain;
diarrhea, constipation;
headache, dizziness, drowsiness;
abnormal lab tests;
itching, sweating;
stuffy nose;
increased blood pressure; or
swelling or pain in your arms or legs.

Common side effects may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Can I take Diclofenac (Voltaren) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

Positive evidence of risk

Based on FDA pregnancy categories

Diclofenac can affect ovulation and it may be harder to get pregnant while you are using this medicine.

It may not be safe to breastfeed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.

Interactions

What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Diclofenac (Voltaren)?

Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase your risk of stomach bleeding.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using other medicines for pain, fever, swelling, or cold/flu symptoms. They may contain ingredients similar to diclofenac (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, or naproxen).

Avoid taking aspirin or other NSAIDs unless your doctor tells you to.

Dosage Guidelines & Tips

How to take Diclofenac (Voltaren)?

Use Diclofenac (Voltaren) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Different brands of diclofenac contain different amounts of this medicine, and may have different uses. If you switch brands, your dose needs may change. Follow your doctor's instructions about how much medicine to take. Ask your pharmacist if you have any questions about the brand of diclofenac you receive at the pharmacy.

Swallow the whole and do not crush, chew, or break it. tablet

Take on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Zorvolex

Call your doctor if your headache does not completely go away after taking Cambia.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the lowest dose that is effective in treating your condition.

Dissolve diclofenac powder with 1 to 2 ounces of water. Do not use any other type of liquid. Stir this mixture and drink all of it right away. Diclofenac powder works best if you take it on an empty stomach. (Cambia)

If you use diclofenac long-term, you may need frequent medical tests.

What should I do if I missed a dose of Diclofenac (Voltaren)?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. take extra medicine to make up the missed dose. Do not

What to Expect

The diclofenac capsules and tablets typically take about 20 to 30 minutes to work.

It’s best to take the lowest dose of diclofenac for the shortest possible time to lower your chances of developing serious side effects. But some people with chronic conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, may need to take this medicine for an extended period of time.

Your doctor may recommend another medicine to protect your stomach if you need to take diclofenac long-term.