What is Diclofenac Potassium: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

A doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed. 

This medicine should come with an NSAID Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

How to take diclofenac potassium tablets or capsules: 

• Diclofenac tablets can be taken with or without food. If they cause digestive system troubles, try taking them with food.

• Diclofenac capsules should be taken on an empty stomach.

• Store tablets or capsules at room temperature in a tightly sealed container protected from moisture.

How to take diclofenac potassium oral solution: 

• Mix the packet contents with 1 to 2 ounces (30 to 60 mL) of water. 

• Do not use any liquid other than water for mixing the medicine. 

• Mix well and drink it immediately on an empty stomach.

• Store packets at room temperature and protected from moisture.

If a dose is missed, take it when remembered unless it’s almost time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose. Take the next dose as scheduled.

Do not take extra doses to make up for a missed dose.

This medicine is not right for everyone. 

Diclofenac should not be taken by anyone who has had an allergic reaction such as asthma or hives to diclofenac, aspirin, or any other NSAID.

Diclofenac is not to be used before or after coronary artery bypass surgery.

Diclofenac potassium oral solution should not be taken by anyone with bovine protein allergies.

Because of possible side effects, healthcare providers will prescribe the lowest possible dose for the shortest possible time.

The doctor may administer regular blood tests to ensure diclofenac isn’t causing side effects. Keep all appointments.

Diclofenac increases the risk of blood clots, heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and edema. Tell the doctor if you have heart disease or recently had a heart attack.

Diclofenac can cause serious gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, or perforation of the esophagus, stomach, or intestines. Tell the doctor about any history of ulcers or gastrointestinal problems.

NSAIDs like diclofenac may cause severe allergic or skin reactions. If a reaction occurs, stop taking meloxicam immediately and contact your doctor.

Tell the doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• Heart disease

• Recent heart attack

• Heart failure

• History of ulcers

• History of gastrointestinal bleeding

• Kidney disease

• Liver disease

• Asthma

• High blood pressure

• Blood vessel problems

• Bleeding problems 

• Dehydration

• Pregnancy or plans to get pregnant

Diclofenac can cause:

• Kidney damage

• Liver damage

• High blood pressure

• High potassium

• Anemia

• Diclofenac can delay ovulation.

• Because of possible risks to an unborn child, NSAIDs should not be taken after 20 weeks of pregnancy.

Because of possible drug interactions, tell healthcare providers you are using this medicine.

Do not use any other NSAID unless your doctor says it is okay. 

Avoid alcohol when taking diclofenac. 

Other medications that may cause problems when combined with diclofenac include:

• Blood thinners

• Blood pressure medications called ACE inhibitors

• Diuretics

• Corticosteroids

• Certain types of antibiotics called aminoglycoside antibiotics

• Lithium, digoxin, pemetrexed, methotrexate, and cyclosporine

Some drugs slow down or speed up the body’s metabolism of diclofenac potassium. The prescribing doctor will know what these drugs are. If these drugs are combined with diclofenac, be prepared to follow special instructions. Doses or the time between doses may be modified.