Diclofenac

Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 4/2/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

The use of diclofenac has been shown to cause side effects in some patients.

Common mild side effects of diclofenac use include:

• Stomach upset or pain
  
• Nausea
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Gas
  
• Constipation
  
• Dizziness
  
• Drowsiness
  
• Headache
  
• Sweating
  
• Rash or itching
  
• Stuffy nose
  
• Fluid retention
  
  

More severe side effects include:

• Chest pain or tightness
  
• Weight gain
  
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  
• Confusion or disorientation
  
• Seizures
  
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  
• GI bleeding and ulceration
  
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
  
• Prolonged bleeding time
  
• Pale skin
  
• Cloudy, discolored, or bloody urine
  
• Back pain or difficult/painful urination
  
• Muscle stiffness or spasms
  
• Increased risk of heart attack and stroke
  
• Anemia
  
• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling of the face/tongue/throat, severe dizziness)
  
  

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any severe symptoms while taking diclofenac. If you experience mild side effects that become severe or do not go away after a few days, speak to a healthcare provider right away.

Tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with diclofenac. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with this drug.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

• Pain relievers (Aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib)
  
• ACE inhibitors (e.g., benazepril, captopril, enalapril, fosinopril, lisinopril, moexipril, perindopril, quinapril, ramipril, trandolapril)
  
• Angiotensin receptor blockers (e.g., azilsartan, candesartan, eprosartan, irbesartan, losartan, olmesartan, telmisartan)
  
• Beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol, labetalol, metoprolol, nadolol, propranolol)
  
• Cyclosporine (Gengraf, Neoral, Sandimmune)
  
• Anticoagulants (warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto, Pradaxa)
  
• Antiplatelet medications (Plavix, Effient, Brilinta)
  
• Digoxin (Lanoxin)
  
• Diuretics ('water pills')
  
• Insulin and oral medication for diabetes
  
• Lithium (Lithobid)
  
• Medications for seizures
  
• Methotrexate (Otrexup, Rasuvo, Trexall)
  
• Rifampin (Rifadin, Rimactane, in Rifamate, in Rifater)
  
• Voriconazole (Vfend)
  
  

You should also mention medical conditions such as:

• Heart disease
  
• High blood pressure
  
• Bleeding/ clotting disorders
  
• Liver disease
  
• Kidney disease
  
• Diabetes
  
• Anemia
  
• Asthma
  
• Stomach ulcers
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using diclofenac to assess potential risks and benefits.

You can follow your regular diet while taking diclofenac.

Avoid alcohol consumption while taking diclofenac, as it may increase the risk of stomach bleeding or other side effects.

Tell your doctor if you smoke before starting treatment with diclofenac.

Do not use diclofenac if you are allergic to it or other NSAIDs, or if you have a history of allergic reactions (e.g., asthma, hives) to these medications.

Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions regarding the use of diclofenac with food, beverages, and other medications. It's essential to follow their guidance to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and minimize the risk of side effects.

The symptoms of a diclofenac overdose include:

• Severe stomach pain
  
• Vomiting (possibly with blood)
  
• Black or bloody stools
  
• Drowsiness
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
  

If you experience any of these symptoms, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. If an individual has collapsed, is having seizures, or is unresponsive, call 9-1-1 immediately.