diclofenac sodium

Diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel) can raise your risk of having blood clots, heart attacks, or strokes. This can happen as early as within the first weeks of starting this medication. People with heart problems, those using high doses of diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel), and those using diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel) for a long time have a higher risk of this happening. That’s why it’s important to use the lowest possible dose for the shortest possible time. If you have heart problems, talk to your healthcare provider before starting this medication. Don't use diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel) if you've had or will be having heart bypass surgery. Call 911 or seek immediate medical help if you experience chest pain, trouble breathing, weakness on one side of your body, or trouble speaking or walking.

Diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel) can cause stomach bleeding and ulcers, which can be dangerous. There are many conditions and medications that raise your risk of this problem, so speak with your provider before starting this medication. Stomach bleeding and ulcers can occur without warning or symptoms, so it's best to use the lowest possible dose for the shortest possible time to minimize your risk. If you notice blood in your vomit, stool that looks like black coffee grounds, or if you have pain in your stomach that doesn't go away, stop using diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel) and talk to your healthcare provider right away.

Very rarely, diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel) can cause life-threatening liver damage. This can happen as early as within the first month of starting this medication. Your risk is higher if you use diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel) with other medications that can also cause liver damage, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and Augmentin (amoxicillin / clavulanate). Liver damage can happen with or without symptoms so if you use this medication for a long time, you might need to get lab work to check your liver regularly. Stop diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel) and talk to your healthcare provider right away if you experience symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, clay-colored stool, and dark urine.

Diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel) can raise your blood pressure, and it can also cause your body to hold onto more water. This can lead to new or worsen existing blood pressure problems, heart failure, and swelling of your arms and legs. Diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel) can also cause some medications used to treat these conditions to be less effective, such as furosemide (Lasix), lisinopril (Zestril), and losartan (Cozaar). Monitor your blood pressure closely while using diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel). Diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel) isn't recommended if you have heart failure, so discuss with your provider before starting this medication. Let your provider know right away if you notice any changes in your blood pressure or experience symptoms, such as trouble breathing, tiredness, swelling in your body, or sudden weight gain.

Diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel) can damage your kidneys by slowing down blood flow to the kidneys. The risk is higher if you're taking certain blood pressure medications (like ACEIs, ARBs, or water pills), or have certain conditions (like kidney or liver problems and heart failure). Kidney damage is usually reversible once you stop taking this medication. If you have very severe kidney problems, don't use this medication unless the benefit is greater than the risk of side effects. Let your provider know if you notice a change in how often you urinate after starting diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel).

Diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel) can cause your airways to tighten, which might lead to severe asthma attacks. Be careful using this medication if you have asthma. People who've experienced asthma attacks triggered by aspirin (Aspir-Low) or other NSAIDs in the past should avoid diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel). Get medical help right away if your throat tightens and you can't breathe.

Diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel) might cause sudden, very serious, and sometimes life-threatening allergic and skin reactions. Symptoms include fever, body aches, rash, peeling skin, painful blisters all over your body, and swelling of the face. Stop the medication and get help right away if you experience these symptoms.