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Brand names - Arthrotec (diclofenac & misoprostol),
Cataflam, Voltaren, Voltarol
Medication type - NSAID
Common side effects - Nausea, vomiting,
heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, headache, dizziness, sleepiness.
Rare side effects - Ulcers or sores
in mouth, depression, rashes or blistering of skin, ringing sound
in the ears, unusual tingling or numbness of the hands or feet,
seizures, blurred vision. Also elevated potassium levels, decreased
blood counts; such problems can be detected by your doctor.
Serious side effects - Shortness of breath
or wheezing, with or without swelling of legs or other signs of
heart failure; chest pain; peptic ulcer disease with vomiting of
blood; black, tarry stools; decreasing kidney function. Call your
doctor immediately.
Uses - To treat mild to moderate pain
and inflammation.
Other notes - Starts to work within
30 minutes. Take with food. Prolonged use can cause
gastrointestinal problems, including ulceration and bleeding, kidney
dysfunction, and liver inflammation. Consult your physician about
the need for medical examinations and laboratory studies. Avoid
alcohol when using this medication because it increases the risk
of stomach irritation. Avoid or discontinue this drug if you are
pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Diclofenac passes into breast
milk; avoid or discontinue use while nursing. Because NSAIDs can
inhibit blood coagulation, this drug should be discontinued at least
3 days prior to any surgery. Do not crush or chew the tablets.
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