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Diclofenac Potassium / Diclofenac - Oral

ALTERNATE NAMES FOR DICLOFENAC POTASSIUM :

Cataflam

DICLOFENAC POTASSIUM IS USED FOR :

Diclofenac Potassium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug that relieves pain and reduces inflammation (swelling). It is used to treat headaches, muscle aches, dental pain, menstrual cramps and athletic injuries. It is commonly used to treat pain, swelling and stiffness associated with arthritis.

USING DICLOFENAC POTASSIUM :

Take Diclofenac Potassium with food, milk, or antacids to prevent stomach upset. Diclofenac Potassium is most effective in relieving menstrual pain if taken at the earliest sign of pain. Take Diclofenac Potassium with 6 to 8 ounces (180-240ml) of water. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking Diclofenac Potassium.

SIDE EFFECTS OF DICLOFENAC POTASSIUM :

Stomach upset is the most common side effect. Nausea, vomiting, bloating, gas, dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision or loss of appetite may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Inform your doctor promptly if you develop: ringing in ears/ loss of hearing, vision changes. If you notice any of the following unlikely but very serious side effects, stop taking Diclofenac Potassium and consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately: black stools, persistent stomach/ abdominal pain, vomit that looks like coffee grounds. An allergic reaction to Diclofenac Potassium is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS WHILE TAKING DICLOFENAC POTASSIUM :

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver or kidney disease, blood disorders, ulcers, heart disease, alcohol use, high blood pressure, eye disease, asthma, nasal polyps, any allergies - especially aspirin/NSAID allergy (e.g., ibuprofen, celecoxib). Use caution when performing tasks requiring alertness. Limit alcohol intake as it may intensify the drowsiness effect of Diclofenac Potassium. Diclofenac Potassium may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol, especially when combined with Diclofenac Potassium, may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Do not take aspirin without consulting your doctor. Check the ingredients of any nonprescription medication you may be taking since many cough-and-cold formulas contain aspirin. Infrequently, Diclofenac Potassium may increase the skin s sensitivity to sunlight. If this happens to you, avoid prolonged sun exposure, wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen. Avoid sunlamps. Caution is advised when Diclofenac Potassium is used in the elderly. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using Diclofenac Potassium. Use of Diclofenac Potassium in the last 6 months of pregnancy is not recommended. Diclofenac Potassium is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

MEDICATION INTERACTIONS TAKING DICLOFENAC POTASSIUM :

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: blood thinners such as warfarin, other arthritis medication, water pills, lithium. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

IF YOU OVERDOSE WITH DICLOFENAC POTASSIUM :

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe stomach pain, coffee ground-like vomit, dark stool, ringing in the ears, change in amount of urine, unusually fast or slow heartbeat, muscle weakness, slow or shallow breathing, confusion, severe headache or loss of consciousness.

IF YOU MISS A DOSE WITH DICLOFENAC POTASSIUM :

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up the dose to catch up.

HOW TO STORE DICLOFENAC POTASSIUM :

Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.

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