Brand Names:

Voltaren

What is it?

Diclofenac is a NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) often used for arthritis and other types of pain.

What’s In It For Me?

It works well to decrease pain, and fever. It also helps if your joints or muscles are inflamed.

The Good

Even though it is a common drug that is relatively inexpensive, diclofenac is very effective for many different types of pain.

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The Bad

This drug is usually very safe , but like all medications, diclofenac can have side effects. The most common is stomach upset, but taking it with food can help. In some patients it can cause stomach ulcers . About one in one hundred people taking Flurbiprofen regularly will develop an ulcer.  The rate is higher if you have had and ulcer before or at increased risk for another reason.   If you are at high risk, your doctor may need to prescribe another medicine to protect yoiur stomach.

Diclofenac can cause damage to your kidneys if you already have kidney disease or if you are on other medications that can harm your kidneys.

Diclofenac can make high blood pressure more difficult to treat in some people.

If you are taking aspirin to protect your heart, you should take your aspirin first thing in the morning and wait at least 2 hours before starting diclofenac, because diclofenac can stop the aspirin from working.

”

For the Cynic

 
The mild pain relief of this drug may not be worth the risk of stomach problems. The stomach problems are worse if you take a high dose and if you taken often.

The Cost

Diclofenac is available as a generic and is relatively inexpensive.

Diclofenac works well to decrease pain and inflammation

It  can cause stomach and kidney problems.  You should talk with your doctor before taking this drug for more than occasional headaches or pain.

Written by:Written by: Jessica Benzer PharmD Candidate and edited by ProfJameson

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