Brand
name:
Brand name: Defenac
(Diclofenac, Voltaren)
Pronounced: vol-TAR-en
Generic name: Diclofenac sodium
Other brand name: Cataflam (Diclofenac potassium) DEFENAC (Diclofenac, Voltaren)
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 without prescriptions/Rx
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 DEFENAC (Diclofenac,
Voltaren)
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.
