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Diclofenac is a medication that may pose certain risks and requires careful consideration before use. Below is essential safety and warning information to guide you in its use. Always discuss with your healthcare provider regarding any concerns.

• Heart Risk: Diclofenac can increase the likelihood of blood clots, heart attacks, or strokes. This risk can begin within the first weeks of treatment and is heightened for those with existing heart issues, those taking high doses, or using it for extended periods. Avoid diclofenac before or after heart bypass surgery. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience chest pain, difficulty breathing, weakness on one side of the body, or difficulty speaking.

• Stomach and Intestinal Bleeding: This medication can cause serious and potentially fatal bleeding in the stomach or intestines, sometimes without warning symptoms. The risk is higher in older adults and those with a history of stomach issues, who smoke, or consume alcohol. Be vigilant for symptoms like persistent stomach pain, black or tarry stools, or vomit resembling coffee grounds, and contact your healthcare provider immediately if they occur.

• Liver Damage: Rarely, diclofenac can lead to severe liver damage. This risk is increased when taken with other liver-affecting medications. Be alert for symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, or dark urine, and undergo regular liver function tests if using diclofenac long-term.

• Blood Pressure and Heart Failure: Diclofenac can elevate blood pressure and cause fluid retention, potentially worsening heart failure. Monitor blood pressure closely and report any swelling, sudden weight gain, or difficulty breathing to your healthcare provider.

• Kidney Function: The medication can impair kidney function, especially if combined with certain blood pressure drugs or in individuals with pre-existing kidney or liver problems. Report any changes in urination patterns to your healthcare provider.

• Asthma Attacks: Diclofenac can induce severe asthma attacks in susceptible individuals, particularly those with a history of NSAID-triggered asthma. Avoid use if you have known sensitivities, and seek immediate help if breathing becomes difficult.

• Severe Allergic Reactions: Be aware of potentially life-threatening allergic responses, such as rash, blisters, or facial swelling. Avoid use if you have a known allergy to cow-derived products in Zipsor (diclofenac potassium) capsules.

• Pregnancy Concerns: Diclofenac can harm unborn babies, especially if taken during the second or third trimester, potentially causing kidney or heart issues. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Contraindications Include:

• Past allergic reactions to aspirin or other NSAIDs.
• Recent heart surgery.
• Allergy to bovine products (specific to Zipsor).

In case of overdose or severe reactions, seek emergency medical assistance immediately. Always consult with your healthcare provider to weigh the benefits and risks of using diclofenac, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

When taking this medication, you might experience some common side effects such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, stomach pain, upset stomach, constipation, diarrhea, and gas. These effects are usually mild, but if they continue or worsen, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider. Additionally, some people may notice rashes, dry or itchy skin, or experience anemia and difficulty controlling bleeding.

There are some more serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include any signs of a heart attack, such as chest pain, dizziness, and trouble breathing, or symptoms of a stroke like difficulty speaking and weakness on one side of the body. Stomach issues such as persistent pain or bleeding, which might appear as black or coffee-ground-like stool, should also be urgently addressed.

This medication can occasionally lead to serious liver or kidney problems. Symptoms such as fatigue, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, and changes in urination could indicate damage. Rarely, this drug may cause severe asthma attacks or serious allergic reactions, including swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, or severe skin reactions. Immediate medical help is crucial in such cases.

Always monitor your body's response to the medication and reach out to a healthcare professional if you experience any severe symptoms or side effects not listed here. Your health and safety are of utmost importance, and prompt attention to these signs can ensure effective management.

Diclofenac can interact with various medications, so it's important to inform your healthcare provider about all drugs and supplements you are currently using, whether they are prescriptions, over-the-counter, or herbal products. Here are some critical interaction details:

• Strongly not recommended combinations: Using diclofenac with Ketorolac is generally discouraged. Your doctor might choose alternative treatments or adjust your current medications.

• Commonly discouraged combinations: Diclofenac should generally not be used with certain medications unless absolutely necessary. If combined, your doctor may adjust dosages or monitor you closely. These medications include blood thinners like apixaban and Warfarin, anti-platelet drugs like Clopidogrel, various corticosteroids such as Dexamethasone, antidepressants like Amitriptyline and Fluoxetine, diuretics like Furosemide, and several others including Lithium and Methotrexate.

• Possible side effect risk: When diclofenac is used with certain other drugs, there might be a higher risk of side effects, though the combination might still be beneficial. In such cases, dosage adjustments might be necessary. These include medications like ACE inhibitors (e.g., Lisinopril), angiotensin II receptor blockers (e.g., Losartan), certain beta-blockers (e.g., Atenolol), and other similar drugs.

Additionally, be cautious with medications that contain pain relievers or fever reducers such as NSAIDs, as they are similar to diclofenac and can increase the risk of side effects. However, if you're prescribed low-dose Aspirin for heart attack or stroke prevention, it should be continued unless advised otherwise by your doctor. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.