diclofenac / capsaicin

NSAIDs, like diclofenac in diclofenac/capsaicin, can raise your risk of blood clots, heart attacks, or strokes. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time. To prevent heart attack or stroke, your provider will prescribe the lowest possible dose of diclofenac/capsaicin for the shortest amount of time that works well for you. If you have heart problems, talk to your healthcare provider before starting this medication. Don't use diclofenac/capsaicin if you've had or will be having heart bypass surgery. Call 911 or seek immediate help if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side of your body, or trouble speaking or walking.

Topical diclofenac in diclofenac/capsaicin can put you at risk for stomach ulcers (sores) and bleeds. Stomach bleeding is a dangerous condition that requires treatment right away. Make sure to tell your provider or pharmacist about all of your conditions and medications before starting diclofenac/capsaicin so they can determine your risk for stomach bleeding. Some medications, such as oral corticosteroids and blood thinners, can raise your risk of stomach bleeding. If you're feeling faint, vomiting blood, have bloody or dark stools, or have severe stomach pain or discomfort that doesn't go away while taking diclofenac/capsaicin, seek medical attention right away.

Rarely, diclofenac (an ingredient in diclofenac/capsaicin) taken by mouth has caused life-threatening liver damage. Your risk is higher if you use diclofenac/capsaicin with other medications that can also cause liver damage, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol). Liver damage can happen with or without symptoms, so it's best to use the lowest possible dose for the shortest possible time to minimize your risk. Your provider might order blood tests to check your liver function regularly. Stop diclofenac/capsaicin and talk to your 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, or dark urine.

Diclofenac can raise your blood pressure by causing your body to hold onto more water. This can lead to new or worsening blood pressure problems, heart failure, and swelling of your arms and legs. Diclofenac/capsaicin can also cause some medications used to treat these conditions to work less well, such as furosemide (Lasix), lisinopril (Zestril), and losartan (Cozaar). Monitor your blood pressure closely while using diclofenac/capsaicin. Make sure to tell your provider about all your medical conditions before starting diclofenac/capsaicin. Let your provider know immediately 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/capsaicin 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/capsaicin.

Rarely, diclofenac/capsaicin can cause life-threatening allergic reactions. Diclofenac in diclofenac/capsaicin 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 or other NSAIDs in the past should avoid diclofenac/capsaicin. Get medical help right away if your throat tightens and you can't breathe.

Diclofenac in diclofenac/capsaicin might cause sudden and serious skin reactions (e.g., DRESS). Symptoms can include fever, body aches, rash, peeling skin, painful blisters all over your body, and swelling of the face. Stop diclofenac/capsaicin and get medical attention right away if you experience these symptoms. Don't apply this medication to open wounds, skin infections, or inflamed skin as this can change how the medication gets absorbed or delay you from receiving the right medication in the meantime.

Diclofenac/capsaicin can lower the level of red blood cells in your body (anemia). This might be due to stomach bleeding or swelling caused by diclofenac. Your provider will monitor your blood cell counts during treatment if you seem weaker than usual, have cold hands and feet, or shortness of breath. This is to make sure your red blood cell count doesn't drop too low. Please let your provider know if you have a history of blood problems or if you take certain medications that raise your risk of bleeding (e.g., blood thinners, SSRIs, SNRIs). Your provider can make sure diclofenac/capsaicin is safe for you.

Diclofenac and other NSAIDs should be avoided after 20 weeks of pregnancy because it might cause problems to your unborn baby (such as heart, lung, or kidney problems) or cause complications during delivery. If you're pregnant, talk to your provider first before using diclofenac/capsaicin to make sure it's safe for you.

Diclofenac/capsaicin should only be used on your skin. Don't take this medication by mouth, and never use it in your eyes, nose, or ears. If you think that your child might’ve accidentally swallowed this medication, call your Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away.