See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Diclofenac
What side effects can diclofenac sodium cause?
Diclofenac sodium (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, NSAID) can cause side effects ranging from mild stomach upset to serious risks, depending on dose and how long you take it.
Common side effects include:
- Stomach-related effects such as heartburn, nausea, stomach pain, and indigestion
- Headache, dizziness, or feeling tired
- Fluid retention (swelling), which can show up in hands, ankles, or feet
Less common but important side effects include:
- Elevated blood pressure
- Kidney problems (reduced kidney function, especially in people who already have risk factors)
- Liver injury (signs can include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, severe fatigue)
Serious side effects that need urgent medical attention include:
- Signs of a gastrointestinal bleed: vomiting blood, black/tarry stools, or severe abdominal pain
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side of the body, or trouble speaking (possible heart attack or stroke)
- Severe allergic reactions: facial/lip swelling, trouble breathing, widespread rash
Are the stomach and bleeding risks common with diclofenac?
NSAIDs including diclofenac can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of ulcers and bleeding. The risk is higher with:
- Higher doses or longer use
- History of stomach ulcers or GI bleeding
- Taking other medicines that raise bleeding risk (for example, blood thinners or some steroids)
If you notice black stools, vomiting blood, or severe persistent stomach pain, seek urgent care.
Does diclofenac sodium affect the heart or blood pressure?
NSAIDs can increase cardiovascular risk in some people. Diclofenac is associated with higher risk of:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Worsening hypertension (blood pressure)
Risk can be higher in people with existing heart disease, prior stroke, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or long-term use.
Can diclofenac harm kidneys?
Yes. Diclofenac can reduce kidney blood flow, which can lead to kidney injury, especially in people who:
- Are older
- Have chronic kidney disease
- Are dehydrated (for example, from vomiting/diarrhea or not drinking enough)
- Take certain medicines that can affect kidneys (for example, diuretics or ACE inhibitors/ARBs)
Seek medical advice if you notice decreased urination, sudden swelling, or unexplained fatigue while taking diclofenac.
What liver warning signs should you watch for?
Diclofenac can rarely cause liver injury. Stop and get medical help promptly if you develop:
- Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine
- Severe nausea/vomiting with loss of appetite
- Right upper belly pain or severe unusual fatigue
What side effects differ by form (tablet, gel, eye drops)?
Systemic diclofenac (tablets/capsules) generally carries higher risk for stomach, cardiovascular, kidney, and liver side effects than topical forms. Topical diclofenac (like diclofenac gel) tends to have fewer systemic effects, but can still cause:
- Local skin reactions (redness, itching, rash, irritation)
Eye formulations (if used) may cause local eye symptoms such as irritation or changes in vision—if you have a specific product, tell me which one and I can tailor the side-effect list.
Who should avoid diclofenac or use it only with clinician guidance?
Diclofenac may be unsafe or requires close monitoring if you have:
- Prior NSAID allergy or asthma triggered by NSAIDs
- A history of stomach ulcers or GI bleeding
- Significant heart disease or prior stroke
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure
- You are pregnant (especially later in pregnancy)
Also use extra caution if you take blood thinners, corticosteroids, other NSAIDs, or certain antidepressants, because the combination can increase bleeding and stomach risks.
When should you call a doctor right away?
Get urgent help if you have:
- Chest pain, trouble breathing, weakness/numbness on one side, or trouble speaking
- Black/tarry stools, vomiting blood, or severe abdominal pain
- Facial/lip swelling, hives, or breathing difficulty
- Marked decrease in urination or sudden major swelling
- Yellowing of skin/eyes or dark urine
Sources
DrugPatentWatch.com: https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/