Diclofenac is a widely used medication that helps manage pain and reduce inflammation in the body. It belongs to a class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. While effective for conditions like arthritis, diclofenac, like all medications, has the potential for side effects.
Common Diclofenac Side Effects
Diclofenac can cause a range of side effects, often affecting the digestive system. These include stomach upset, nausea, heartburn, indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, and flatulence. Taking the medication with food can sometimes help reduce these gastrointestinal issues.
Beyond digestive concerns, individuals may experience central nervous system effects such as headaches or dizziness. Less frequent side effects include skin rashes, itching, swelling, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), or increased blood pressure. Topical forms of diclofenac, like gels, tend to have fewer systemic side effects because less of the medication is absorbed into the bloodstream compared to oral forms.
Factors Affecting Side Effect Duration
Diclofenac side effect duration varies significantly among individuals due to several factors. The dosage and frequency of administration play a role, as higher doses or more frequent use may lead to more noticeable or prolonged side effects. How quickly an individual’s body processes and eliminates the medication, influenced by liver and kidney function, also affects duration.
The specific formulation of diclofenac (e.g., immediate-release, delayed-release, extended-release tablets, or topical gels) impacts drug absorption and clearance. Pre-existing health conditions, like kidney disease or liver impairment, can hinder drug clearance and potentially extend the duration of side effects. Additionally, interactions with other medications can alter diclofenac’s effects or its elimination from the body, further influencing side effect duration.
Expected Duration of Side Effects
Many acute side effects associated with diclofenac, such as stomach upset, nausea, or headaches, often resolve relatively quickly. These subside within a few hours to a day after the last dose as the drug is cleared from the body. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort, including heartburn or diarrhea, may improve within days as the body adjusts to the medication.
Dizziness and headaches are short-lived, diminishing as the concentration of diclofenac decreases in the system. Skin rashes, depending on their severity, may persist for a few days even after discontinuing the medication. With long-term or high-dose use, more serious side effects like stomach ulcers, bleeding, kidney issues, or high blood pressure can develop, potentially requiring ongoing management or leading to long-term complications.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek medical attention for certain symptoms while taking diclofenac. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a severe skin reaction with blistering or peeling. These could indicate a serious allergic reaction.
Contact a doctor if you notice signs of internal bleeding, such as black or tarry stools, vomiting blood, or severe, persistent stomach pain. Other concerning symptoms include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), unexplained weight gain, or swelling in the arms, legs, or feet, which could signal liver or heart problems. Any side effects that do not improve within the expected timeframe, worsen, or are new and alarming should also prompt a discussion with a healthcare professional.