Brand name: FENSAIDE (Diclofenac, Voltaren)
Pronounced: vol-TAR-en
Generic name: Diclofenac sodium
Other brand name: Cataflam (Diclofenac potassium)
Why is Fensaide prescribed?

Fensaide and Cataflam are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used to relieve the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis), and ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis and stiffness of the spine). Fensaide-XR, the extended-release form of Fensaide, is used only for long-term treatment. Cataflam is also prescribed for immediate relief of pain and menstrual discomfort.
Most important fact about Fensaide

You should have frequent checkups with your doctor if you take Fensaide regularly. Ulcers or internal bleeding can occur without warning.
How should you take Fensaide?

To minimize stomach upset and related side effects, your doctor may recommend taking this medicine with food, milk, or an antacid. However, this may delay onset of relief.

Take Fensaide with a full glass of water. Also, do not lie down for about 20 minutes after taking it. This will help to prevent irritation in your upper digestive tract.

Take Fensaide exactly as prescribed.

--If you miss a dose...

If you take this medicine on a regular schedule, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature. Keep the container tightly closed and protect from moisture.
Fensaide side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Fensaide.

* Side effects may include:
Abdominal bleeding, abdominal pain or cramps, abdominal swelling, anemia, blood clotting problems, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, fluid retention, gas, headache, heartburn, indigestion, itching, nausea, peptic ulcers, rash, ringing in the ears, vomiting

This side effects list is not complete. If you have any questions about side effects you should consult your doctor. Report any new or continuing symptoms to your doctor right away.
Why should Fensaide not be prescribed?

If you have an allergic reaction to Fensaide or Cataflam, or if you have had asthma attacks, hives, or other allergic reactions caused by aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, you should not take Fensaide. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.
Special warnings about Fensaide

Remember that Fensaide has been known to cause peptic ulcers and bleeding. Contact your doctor immediately if you suspect a problem.

Use Fensaide cautiously if you have kidney problems, heart disease, or high blood pressure. It can cause fluid retention.

This medication can also cause liver problems. If you develop signs of liver disease such as nausea, fatigue, lethargy, itching, yellowish eyes and skin, tenderness in the upper right area of your abdomen, or flu-like symptoms, notify your doctor at once.

Rare cases of meningitis (inflammation of the membrane enclosing the brain) have been linked to Fensaide. If symptoms such as fever and coma develop, alert the doctor immediately.In rare instances, Fensaide may also affect your vision. If you notice any problems, stop taking the drug and check with your doctor.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Fensaide

If Fensaide or Cataflam is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Fensaide with the following:

Aspirin
Blood thinners such as Coumadin
Cyclosporine (Sandimmune)
Digitalis drugs such as Lanoxin
Diuretics such as Dyazide, Midamor, and Lasix
Insulin or oral antidiabetes medications such as Micronase
Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid)
Methotrexate
Phenobarbital
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Do not take Fensaide late in your pregnancy; it could harm the baby. Check with your doctor before taking the drug early in pregnancy; it should be used only if necessary. The drug does appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Fensaide is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with Fensaide is finished.
Recommended dosage for Fensaide

ADULTS
Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

* The symptoms of Fensaide overdose may include:
Acute kidney failure, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, lung inflammation nausea, vomiting