GENERIC NAME: DICLOFENAC - ORAL (dye-KLO-fen-ack)

BRAND NAME(S): Cataflam

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication 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.

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

SIDE EFFECTS: 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 this drug and consult your doctor or pharmacist immediately: black stools, persistent stomach/ abdominal pain, vomit that looks like coffee grounds. An allergic reaction to this drug 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: 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 this medication. This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol, especially when combined with this medicine, 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, this medication 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 this drug is used in the elderly. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this drug. Use of this drug in the last 6 months of pregnancy is not recommended. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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