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Diclofenac and misoprostol

  • These tablets contain diclofenac which is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
  • They also contain misoprostol which is used to prevent stomach ulcers.
  • Tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any other NSAID.
  • It is very important that women do not become pregnant whilst being treated with misoprostol. If you are a woman of childbearing age you must use effective contraception. Ask your doctor if you are unsure.

About diclofenac and misoprostol

Type of medicineNon-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
Used forRheumatoid arthritis
Osteoarthritis
Also calledArthrotec® 50
Arthrotec® 75
Available asTablets

This is a combined medicine containing diclofenac and misoprostol. Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and is used to relieve pain and inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Misoprostol helps to protect the stomach against irritation and ulcers which can be caused by taking diclofenac over a long period.

Diclofenac works by blocking the action of a substance in the body called cyclo-oxygenase (COX) which is involved in the production of various chemicals in the body, including prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are produced in response to conditions such as arthritis, and they are responsible for causing pain, swelling and inflammation.

By blocking the action of COX, diclofenac stops the production of these prostaglandins and this results in less pain, swelling and inflammation.

Before taking diclofenac and misoprostol

Before taking diclofenac and misoprostol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have ever had stomach problems such as stomach ulcers.
  • If you have liver or kidney problems.
  • If you suffer with allergies or asthma.
  • if you have ever had blood clotting problems.
  • If you have a heart condition or any disease of the blood vessels.
  • if you have low or high blood pressure.
  • If you suffer from porphyria (a rare blood disorder).
  • If you have ever had an allergic or unusual reaction after taking this medicine, any other NSAID (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, indometacin) or any other medicine.
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

How to take diclofenac and misoprostol

  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Take diclofenac and misoprostol exactly as directed by your doctor.
  • Take these tablets with or immediately after food. Swallow them whole, not chewed or crushed.
  • Try to take these tablets at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
  • If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose in which case skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • If you are a woman who has not yet been through the menopause, it is important that you speak to your doctor or pharmacist about effective methods of contraception. You must not become pregnant while you are taking these tablets.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking these tablets.
  • Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can diclofenac and misoprostol cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicineWhat can I do if I experience this
Feeling or being sick, indigestionEat little and often. Stick to simple foods
DiarrhoeaMake sure you take these tablets with or after food to reduce this. Drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids. Avoid antacids that contain magnesium
DizzinessMake sure you are unaffected before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were to become dizzy
Headache, difficulty sleepingIf troublesome, speak with your doctor
Vaginal bleeding and bleeding between periodsSpeak with your doctor or pharmacist

Important: if you experience any sign of bleeding in the stomach or intestine, such as blood in vomit or black stools, speak with your doctor immediately or go to your local accident and emergency department without delay.

Important: if you experience any shortness of breath, skin rash or swelling of the mouth or face, speak with your doctor immediately or go to your local accident and emergency department without delay.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store diclofenac and misoprostol

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2010DocID: 3502DocRef: dils2817Last Reviewed: 1 Sep 2010Version: 22
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