Managing Diclofenac Side Effects: A Comprehensive Guide

What Is Diclofenac?

Diclofenac (Voltaren or diclofenac sodium) belongs to NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and treats mild-moderate pain resulting from osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis affecting the spine), menstrual cramps, and rheumatoid arthritis.

It also alleviates joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and inflammation. It is a prescription drug and available in many forms such as:

• Capsule
• Enteric-coated tablets
• Voltaren-XR (Extended-release) tablets
• Voltaren-DR (delayed-release) tablets 
• Powder for solution
• Liquid-filled capsules

Uses of Diclofenac

Diclofenac is approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and inhibits the working of COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes.

It blocks the synthesis of prostaglandins, reducing pain, fever, and inflammation. The different forms of Diclofenac treat various conditions such as:

✅ Cataflam (diclofenac potassium tablets): Relieves period cramps and treats dysmenorrhea.

✅ Arthrotec (diclofenac/misoprostol): Reduce inflammation and pain resulting from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. 

✅ Cambia (diclofenac powder): Treat acute migraine attacks and alleviate pain. 

✅ Diclofenac gel: Treat localized pain such as joint pain without side effects.

✅ Zipsor & Zorvolex (diclofenac capsules): Treat mild-moderate pain. 

✅ Pennsaid (diclofenac solution): Treats knee osteoarthritis.

✅ Voltaren ophthalmic (diclofenac eye drops): Treat inflammation of the eyes after corneal refractive surgery and cataract surgery.

✅ Flector transdermal diclofenac patch: Treat acute pain in various conditions.

✅ Solaraze topical gel: Treat actinic keratosis.

The other uses of Diclofenac are:

✅ Back pain: Alleviate lower back pain and improve mobility.

✅ Ankylosing spondylitis: Manage symptoms and alleviate chronic pain and inflammation in the spine. 

✅ Post-surgery pain: Alleviate post-operative pain and inflammation.

How Long Is It Safe to Use Diclofenac?

Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and is used to treat various conditions and manage inflammation and pain for the short term.

It is prescribed by the doctor for 7-14 days only. Its prolonged use is mostly avoided as it can cause cardiovascular problems, kidney damage, and digestive tract issues.

However, if your doctor prescribes it for the long term, you must take this drug under his supervision and regularly monitor your health to avoid any negative effects.

Diclofenac Sodium Side Effects — Complete List

Patients taking Diclofenac may experience mild, common, or severe side effects depending on their age, health condition, and medical history.

Mild side effects settle with time while some effects stay longer and require professional help. Let’s have a look at these common and serious side effects!

The Most Common Side Effects of Diclofenac Sodium Tablets

• Stomach pain
• Indigestion
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Headache
• Gas
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Liver problems
• Skin reactions such as itching, rash, or hives
• Drowsiness 
• Ringing in the ears 
• Swelling of feet, ankles, legs, arms, and hands
• Bruising
• Delayed ovulation
• Enhanced sun sensitivity
• Bleeding gums
• Belching 
• Bloody urine, vomiting, or stool
• Chest pain
• Burning while urinating
• Chills 
• Clay-colored stools
• Cough 
• Cloudy urine
• Dark urine
• Fever 
• Decrease in urine output or concentration
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Increased bleeding time
• Heartburn 
• Light-colored stools
• Painful or difficult urination
• Loss of appetite
• Pale skin
• Sore throat
• Sores, white spots, or ulcers, on the lips or in the mouth
• Trouble breathing
• Swollen glands
• Unpleasant breath odor
• Yellow eyes and skin
• Sudden weight loss

If you get any of these side effects, consult your doctor immediately.

How Can I Reduce the Side Effects of Diclofenac?

Although Diclofenac causes different side effects from mild to severe, you can manage or reduce the severity of these side effects by using these strategies such as:

1. Take Diclofenac or Other NSAIDs With Meal

If you feel gastrointestinal effects after taking diclofenac, try to take it with milk, antacid, or food. This thing will protect your stomach lining, avoid irritation, and reduce the risk of heartburn, nausea, or stomach pain. 

2. Drink Plenty of Water

While taking diclofenac, stay well hydrated to reduce the risk of dehydration and kidney damage. Drinking plenty of water will flush your kidneys and avoid the risk of diarrhea and vomiting. 

3. Take an Effective Dose

Take a low dose of diclofenac for a short period to avoid the risk of serious effects such as heart and gastrointestinal issues. Consult your doctor and take the lowest effective dose according to your health condition. 

4. Check Blood Pressure Regularly

If your doctor prescribes you to take diclofenac for the long term, monitor your blood pressure regularly if you have a history of cardiovascular events or hypertension.

If you experience any significant increase in your blood pressure, consult your doctor immediately and opt for another pain management option. 

5. Stop Drinking Alcohol

If you drink alcohol while taking diclofenac, it will increase the risk of liver damage and gastrointestinal bleeding. So avoid alcohol and protect your stomach and liver.

6. Avoid Other Medications 

Diclofenac sodium tablets can interact with other medicines and make the side effects worse. So, before or while taking diclofenac, do not take any other drug to avoid the risk of negative effects.

7. Stay out of Sun

Diclofenac makes your skin more sensitive to the sun. So while taking diclofenac avoid the bright sun. wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF15 or above) to reduce the risk of sunburn or photosensitivity. Never use sunbeds or sunlamps. 

8. Evaluate Kidney and Liver Function Daily

If you are using diclofenac tablets for the long term, regularly do blood tests to evaluate the working of your kidney and liver. Early detection of kidney failure or low levels of liver enzymes prevents you from serious complications. 

9. Report Unusual Side Effects Immediately

While taking diclofenac, if you experience any unwanted side effects, visit your doctor or seek emergency help immediately. Early detection and intervention prevent you from serious complications. 

Lifestyle Changes to Manage Side Effects of Diclofenac

Certain lifestyle changes reduce the risk of side effects and improve your overall health. Let’s discuss them in detail!

Eat a Balanced Diet

Opt for a healthy diet and eat fresh fruits, whole grains, vegetables, and lean protein to support your immune system and cope with the adverse effects of diclofenac.

These diets are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory characteristics, reducing inflammation, improving digestive health, and lowering the risk of side effects of diclofenac or other NSAIDs.

Maintain Your Weight

Being overweight puts additional stress on your joints and increases the risk of heart problems and osteoarthritis. So, maintain a healthy weight and improve your health. 

Perform Exercise Regularly 

Regular exercise improves your joint function, reduces inflammation, and manages pain. Try to engage yourself in exercise like walking, cycling, or swimming to manage the symptoms of joint pain, arthritis, or cardiovascular health. 

Avoid Sodium Intake

High levels of sodium can increase the risk of blood pressure and fluid retention. So limit sodium intake and avoid canned foods, salty snacks, and processed meats to mitigate the negative effects. 

Manage Your Stress

Stress can worsen the pain and inflammation. Opt for stress-reduction techniques such as yoga, deep breathing, or meditation to improve your health and reduce the pain sensation. 

Quit Smoking

Smoking makes the side effects of diclofenac worse and increases the risk of heart problems. Quit smoking can reduce the risk of these side effects and improve your cardiovascular health.

The Verdict

Diclofenac sodium tablet is an effective drug for inflammation and pain. However, sometimes it causes adverse effects and affects your health.

You can manage and reduce the severity of these side effects by implementing various strategies and lifestyle changes to get the most out of the treatment.

Always consult your doctor and take diclofenac and other NSAIDs according to his advice and recommendation to avoid serious complications.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Diclofenac Sodium Tablets

Do Side Effects of Diclofenac Go Away?

Some mild or common side effects of diclofenac go away with time as your body settles with this medicine. However, sometimes the symptoms persist and become worse and require medical attention.

What Are the Precautions for Diclofenac?

Before using diclofenac, it is better to tell your doctor about your health conditions such as a history of heart problems, stomach ulcers, intestinal bleeding, allergic reactions, etc.

Also, do not take in pregnancy especially in the third trimester to avoid heart or digestive tract issues.

What Is a Natural Alternative to Diclofenac?

Turmeric (curcumin), fish oil, ginger, and green tea are the best natural alternatives to diclofenac or other NSAIDs.

These natural alternatives contain potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, reducing pain and inflammation effectively without any side effects.

What Organ Does Diclofenac Affect?

Prolonged use of diclofenac or other NSAIDs affects your kidney, liver, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal systems. These issues can arise with or without symptoms so always take diclofenac under your doctor’s supervision to avoid any complications.

Are There Any Alternatives to Diclofenac?

Alternatives to Diclofenac tablets are other NSAIDs such as naproxen tablet, indomethacin, flurbiprofen, or ibuprofen and non-NSAID painkillers like Colchicine 500mcg Tablets .

Before taking any medicine, consult your doctor to evaluate the best option for you.