Diclofenac & Misoprostol

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About Diclofenac & Misoprostol

This belongs to the group of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

It is a combined medicine containing Diclofenac and Misoprostol.

This medicine is used to relieve pain and inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Diclofenac works by preventing the production of irritant chemicals that cause pain and inflammation in the body.

Misoprostol help to protect the stomach against irritation and ulcers, which can be caused by Diclofenac.

This medicine is available in tablet form.

The brand available is Arthrotec.

Before Taking Diclofenac & Misoprostol

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from liver, kidney or heart problems
• if you suffer from hypertension (high blood pressure) or SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus)
• if you suffer from rhinitis, asthma, breathing problems, Sjogren's syndrome or thyroid problems
• if you have ever had an unusual reaction after taking aspirin or NSAIDs. Other NSAIDs include Ibuprofen, Naproxen and Piroxicam.
• if you get indigestion or heartburn or if you suffer from peptic ulcer, inflammatory bowel disease or any other gastrointestinal problems
• if you have ever had blood clotting problems
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Take Diclofenac & Misoprostol

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Swallow these tablets whole, not chewed or crushed.
• Take this medicine with or immediately after food.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside this medicine.
• It is IMPORTANT not to become pregnant while you are being treated with this preparation. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about effective methods of contraception.
• This medicine may cause drowsiness and dizziness. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
• Keep your regular appointment with your doctor so your progress can be checked.
• This medicine can cause a dry mouth. If you experience this try chewing sugar-free gum, sucking sugar-free sweets or pieces of ice. If a dry mouth becomes too troublesome, discuss the problem with your doctor or pharmacist.
• Before having any kind of surgery, including dental or emergency treatment, tell the doctor, dentist or surgeon you are taking this medicine.
• This medicine may cause your skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than it is usually. Try to avoid sunlight and sunbeds or use a sun protection cream higher than factor 15 until you know how your skin reacts.

Can Diclofenac & Misoprostol cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Feeling or being sick, diarrhoea, indigestion, rash, headache, dizziness, tiredness, nervousness, depression, drowsiness, problems sleeping, ringing in the ears, tummy pain, excessive wind, irregular menstrual periods or vaginal bleeding in postmenopausal women.

Important: If you experience swelling of the lips, mouth and throat or breathing problems stop taking this medicine immediately and consult your doctor or accident and emergency department of your local hospital as soon as possible

Important: If you experience black or bloody stools or blood in the urine, stop taking this medicine and make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store Diclofenac & Misoprostol

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 18/02/2005   

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