Diclofenac sodium

Diclofenac sodium is an anti-inflammatory drug that is used to help reduce pain and swelling related to osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It reduces pain by eliminating substances from the body called prostaglandins that cause inflammation. It is sometimes used to treat gout or juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, although these are off-label uses for this medication.

Side Effects/Warnings

Patients who have suffered from heart attacks or strokes should not take this medication because using Diclofenac Sodium increases the risk of these diseases. Similarly, people who have a family history of heart disease should be careful when taking this medication because of the risk of cardiovascular problems.

Elderly patients may have perforation of the gastrointestinal system, ulcers or bleeding in the stomach after taking this medication. These problems occur without advance warning and may be fatal.