Brand name:
Voltaren
Pronounced: vol-TAR-en
Generic name: Diclofenac sodium
Other brand name: Cataflam (Diclofenac potassium)
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.
Most important fact about Voltaren : You should have frequent checkups
with your doctor if you take Voltaren regularly. Ulcers or internal bleeding
can occur without warning.
How should you take Voltaren?
To minimize stomach upset and related side effects, your
doctor may recommend taking this medicine with food, milk, or an antacid.
However,
this may delay onset of relief.Take Voltaren 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.Take Voltaren exactly as prescribed.
--If you miss a doses:
If you take diclofenac 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 more 2 doses
at once.
Why should Voltaren not be prescribed?
If you have an allergic reaction to Voltaren or Cataflam, or if you
have had asthma attacks, hives, or other allergic reactions caused by
aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, you should not
take Voltaren. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you
have experienced.
Special warnings about Voltaren : Remember that Voltaren has been known
to cause peptic ulcers and bleeding. Contact your doctor immediately
if you suspect a problem.Use Voltaren 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 nausea, fatigue, lethargy, itching, yellowish
eyes and skin, tenderness in the upper right area of your abdomen, or
flu-like symptoms, notify your doctor at once.Rare cases of meningitis
(inflammation of the membrane enclosing the brain) have been linked to
Voltaren. If symptoms such as fever and coma
develop, alert the doctor immediately.In rare instances, Voltaren may
also affect your vision. If you notice any problems, stop taking the
drug and check with your doctor.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Voltaren
If Voltaren or Cataflam is taken with certain other drugs,
the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is
especially
important to check with your doctor before combining Voltaren with the
following:
Voltaren/Diclofenac side
effects
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.*
Side effects may include:
Abdominal bleeding, abdominal pain or cramps, abdominal swelling, anemia, blood
clotting problems, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, fluid retention, gas,
headache, heartburn, indigestion, itching, nausea, peptic ulcers, rash, ringing
in the ears, vomiting This side effects list is not complete. If you have any
questions about side effects you should consult your doctor. Report any new
or continuing symptoms to your doctor right away.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Do not take Voltaren 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 Voltaren is essential to your health,
your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment
with Voltaren is finished.Any medication taken in excess can have serious
consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.*
The symptoms of Voltaren overdose may include:
Acute kidney failure, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, lung inflammation
nausea, vomiting.
Storage instructions Diclofenac/Voltaren:
Store at room temperature. Keep the container tightly
closed and protect from moisture. |
