Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) of the acetic acid chemical class. The oral delayed-release diclofenac sodium tablets were approved for the treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Various other dosage forms have been approved for the treatment of different types of pain or inflammation. A 3% topical gel formulation is approved for the treatment of actinic keratoses. As with other NSAIDs, diclofenac also possesses analgesic and antipyretic properties. All NSAIDs, including diclofenac, increase the risk for serious gastrointestinal adverse effects including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines and may increase the risk for serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke. The lowest effective diclofenac dose for the shortest possible duration is recommended, as the risk for adverse effects may increase with increased drug exposure.
General Administration Information
For storage information, see the specific product information within the How Supplied section.
Route-Specific Administration
Oral Administration
Oral Solid Formulations
Tablets and capsules:
-Do not crush delayed-release or extended-release formulations (e.g., Voltaren or Voltaren XR).
-Administration of Zorvolex capsules with food may reduce efficacy.
-Administer with food to minimize GI irritation. Extended-release forms (e.g., Voltaren or Voltaren XR) may be administered with food to ensure more consistent blood concentrations.
Oral Liquid Formulations
Powder for oral solution:
-Empty the contents of 1 packet into a cup containing 1 to 2 ounces (30 to 60 mL) of water, mix well, and drink immediately. Do not use liquids other than water.
-Administration with food may reduce efficacy.
Injectable Administration
-Visually inspect parenteral products for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration whenever solution and container permit. If visibly opaque particles, discoloration, or other foreign particles are observed, the solution should not be used.
Intravenous Administration
-Adequately hydrate patients before administering IV diclofenac to reduce the risk of renal adverse reactions.
-Inject by IV bolus over no less than 15 seconds.
Topical Administration
-Wash hands before and after applying or handling diclofenac topical products unless hands are a treated area.
-Do not apply to damaged skin (e.g., exudative dermatitis, eczema, infected lesion, wounds, burns).
-Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. If eye contact occurs, immediately wash out the eye with water or saline, and consult a physician if irritation persists.
Cream/Ointment/Lotion Formulations
Topical gel, Solaraze 3% Gel:
-Gently apply gel to lesion areas.
-Avoid application of cosmetics, sunscreens, and other topical medications on the area being treated with topical diclofenac.
-Protect the treated area from natural and artificial sunlight.
Topical gel, Voltaren 1% Gel:
-Use the dosing card for each application of drug product. Apply the gel within the oblong area of the dosing card up to the 2 gram (2.25 inches) or 4 gram (4.5 inches) line.
-Gently massage the gel into the skin to ensure application to the entire affected area. The entire foot includes the sole, top of the foot, and the toes. The entire hand includes the palm, back of the hands, and the fingers. If gel is used to treat hand osteoarthritis, do not wash the hand for at least 1 hour after application.
-Do not apply occlusive dressings or external heat (i.e., heating pad) to treated areas.
-Do not use on more than 2 body areas at the same time.
-Avoid application of cosmetics, sunscreens, lotions, moisturizers, insect repellants, and other topical medications on the area being treated with topical diclofenac. Concomitant administration has not been tested and should be avoided because of the potential to alter local tolerability and absorption.
-Avoid covering a treated area with clothes or gloves for at least 10 minutes after applying the gel, and avoid showering or bathing for at least 1 hour after the application.
-Avoid exposure of the treated joint(s) to sunlight.
-The gel may take up to 7 days to work for arthritis pain; it is not for immediate relief.
-The dosing card is re-usable.
Topical gel, Venngel One 1% Gel:
-Use the dosing card for each application of drug product. Apply the gel within the oblong area of the dosing card up to the 2 gram (2.25 inches) or 4 gram (4.5 inches) line.
-Gently massage the gel into the skin to ensure application to the entire affected area. The entire foot includes the sole, top of the foot, and the toes. The entire hand includes the palm, back of the hands, and the fingers.
-Do not apply occlusive dressings to treated areas.
-Do not use more than 8 g daily to any single joint of the upper extremities or 16 g to any single join of the lower extremities. Total dose should not exceed 32 g per day, over all affected joints.
-Avoid application of cosmetics, sunscreens, lotions, moisturizers, insect repellants, and other topical medications on the area being treated with topical diclofenac. Concomitant administration has not been tested and should be avoided because of the potential to alter local tolerability and absorption.
-Avoid covering a treated area with clothes or gloves for at least 10 minutes after applying the gel, and avoid showering or bathing for at least 1 hour after the application.
-If gel is used to treat hand osteoarthritis, do not wash the hand for at least 1 hour after application.
-Avoid exposure of the treated joint(s) to natural or artificial sunlight.
-Application of a heat patch for 15 minutes before gel application or gel application followed by a 20-minute treadmill exercise did not lead to clinically relevant differences of systemic absorption and tolerability. Pharmacokinetics of the gel were not tested under the condition of heat application after gel application; therefore, concurrent use of the gel and external heat is not recommended.
-The dosing card is re-usable.
Topical solution, Pennsaid Topical Solution:
-Apply to clean, dry skin.
-Do not apply external heat or occlusive dressings to treated areas.
-Wait until the treated area is dry before covering with clothing or applying lotions, cosmetics, sunscreens, and other topical medications.
-Wait at least 30 minutes after application of diclofenac topical solution before bathing.
-Protect the treated area from natural and artificial sunlight.
-Pennsaid 1.5% topical solution: Utilizing 10 drops at a time to minimize spills, spread solution over the front, back, and sides of the knee; repeat until full dose is applied. May apply directly to treatment area or into the hand for application.
-Pennsaid 2% topical solution: Prime pump before first use by fully depressing the pump 4 times while holding the bottle upright. Discard this portion to ensure proper priming. No further priming should be necessary. Fully depress the pump twice to dispense the prescribed dosage for one knee. Deliver the product directly into the palm of the hand and apply evenly around the front, back, and sides of the knee.
Topical solution, Inflamma-K kit (diclofenac 1.5% topical solution with Salonpas patch) or Diclovix (diclofenac 1.5% topical solution with Viva patch) :
-Apply to clean, dry skin.
-Dispense 10 drops of solution at a time either directly onto the knee or first into the hand and then onto the knee. Spread the solution evenly around front, back, and sides of the knee. Rub into skin until completely absorbed. Repeat this procedure until 40 drops have been applied and the knee is completely covered with solution.
-Remove the patch from the film and apply to the affected area for recommended durations. Do not apply other occlusive dressings to the affected area.
-Wait until the treated area is dry before covering or applying lotions, cosmetics, sunscreens, and other topical medications.
-Protect the treated area from natural and artificial sunlight.
-Do not apply external sources of heat to the treated area.
Transdermal Patch Formulations
Topical patch (Flector)
NOTE: Each patch contains 180 mg of diclofenac epolamine and 13 mg of diclofenac epolamine per gram of adhesive.
-Remove the release liner before applying the patch to the skin.
-Apply to normal, intact skin.
-Do not wear while bathing or showering.
-If patch begins to peel off edges may be secured with adhesive tape. A mesh netting sleeve may also be used to secure patch if needed, particularly if the patch is applied over ankles, knees, or elbows. The mesh netting sleeve must allow air to pass through and not be occlusive.
-Once removed, discard a used patch in a waste receptacle out of the reach of children and pets. A used patch may contain as much as 170 mg of diclofenac eoplamine. Serious adverse effects may occur if a patch is chewed or ingested.
Topical system (Licart)
-Apply to normal, intact skin.
-Do not wear while bathing or showering.
-If the system begins to peel off, the edges may be taped down. If adhesion problems persist, an overlay with a mesh netting sleeve may be placed over the system. The mesh netting sleeve must allow air to pass through and not be occlusive.
Ophthalmic Administration
-Instruct patient on proper instillation of eye solution.
-Do not to touch the tip of the dropper to the eye, fingertips, or other surface.
-When used after surgery, using the same bottle for both eyes is not recommended.
NSAIDs, including diclofenac, can cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events, such as inflammation, bleeding, and ulceration, as well as perforation of the stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. Symptoms can occur at any time, with or without warning symptoms. Only 20% of patients who develop a serious upper GI event are symptomatic. Upper GI ulcers, gross bleeding, or perforation occur in approximately 1% of patients treated for 3 to 6 months and in about 2% to 4% treated for 1 year. Gastrointestinal bleeding or erosive gastritis can be minor or life-threatening and may result from a combination of direct irritant action on the stomach mucosa and increased bleeding time, due to changes in platelet aggregation. Older patients appear to be more affected by GI ulceration or bleeding; most fatal GI events occur in older or debilitated patients. Occult GI bleeding occurs in many patients and is not necessarily correlated with GI distress. GI effects reported with oral administration in more than 1% of adult patients include abdominal distension, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, nausea, peptic ulcer, and pyrosis (heartburn). Vomiting (10% or less) was reported with oral and topical formulations. After oral administration, 1% to 10% of patients reported GI bleeding, GI perforation, and dyspepsia. During oral and topical clinical trials, 2% of patients reported abdominal discomfort and dysgeusia, and 3% reported gastritis and upper abdominal pain. Halitosis occurred in 1% of patients. Rectal hemorrhage was seen more often when oral and topical diclofenac were both used (3%), compared to oral administration alone (less than 1%). Nausea (14.3%), constipation (8.2%), abdominal pain (4.1%), and vomiting (4.1%) have been reported in pediatric trials for oral diclofenac; nausea (3%) and dyspepsia (3%) were reported with topical use. Other GI reactions include bloody diarrhea, xerostomia, melena, stomatitis (including ulcerative stomatitis), aphthous stomatitis, gastroenteritis, glossitis, hematemesis, rectal bleeding, colitis, eructation, decreased appetite, oral ulceration, unspecified taste disorder, and intestinal perforation. Intravenous administration, in clinical studies of moderate to severe postoperative pain (n = 187), caused nausea (24%), constipation (13%), flatulence (8%), and vomiting (6%). Abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting were reported in 3% or fewer patients using the ophthalmic solution. Limit diclofenac use to the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration, discontinuing use if a serious GI event is suspected. Patients on prolonged therapy should undergo regular blood monitoring.
Rare cases of esophagitis have been reported in patients receiving NSAIDs, including orally administered diclofenac; this condition is not reported in patients using topical or ophthalmic diclofenac products. NSAID-induced esophagitis is characterized by sudden onset odynophagia, pyrosis (heartburn), retrosternal pain, and dysphagia. Severe complications such as esophageal ulceration, esophageal stricture, esophageal lesions, bleeding, and perforation have been reported rarely. Risk factors for NSAID-induced esophageal effects include taking the medication without water and at night. Symptoms usually resolve within days to weeks after stopping the medication.
NSAID-associated GI bleeding usually does not account for significant blood loss, though iron deficiency anemia can occur. Retaining excess fluid and/or an incompletely described effect upon erythropoiesis may also contribute to anemia. Anemia has been reported with oral diclofenac (1% to 10%). Patients on prolonged therapy should undergo regular blood monitoring. In general, diclofenac should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration. NSAIDs cause transient and reversible platelet dysfunction by inhibiting platelet aggregation. The occurrence of platelet dysfunction appears to correlate with effective plasma concentrations of the drug, therefore the individual half-life of the NSAID determines the duration of this effect. Prolonged bleeding time has been reported (1% to 10%). Other adverse hematologic and lymphatic reactions reported with oral diclofenac include agranulocytosis, hemolytic anemia, purpura, pancytopenia, eosinophilia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, lymphadenopathy, allergic purpura, hemoglobin decrease, and aplastic anemia. Ecchymosis has been noted with oral diclofenac and the topical solution (2%). Anemias are not expected with topical or ophthalmic diclofenac; however, the product manufacturers caution that use may exacerbate bleeding tendencies.
Adverse hepatic events have been reported with oral and topical diclofenac administration, due to systemic drug absorption, and not with ophthalmic administration. There have been rare cases of severe hepatic reactions including cirrhosis, hepatic necrosis, jaundice, hepatic failure, hepatitis, and fulminant hepatitis with and without jaundice, with some being fatal or resulting in liver transplantation. Postmarketing experience shows that severe hepatic reactions can occur at any time during treatment. Increased ALT (4%) and AST (3%) have been reported with borderline elevated hepatic enzymes (less than 3-times the upper limit of normal) in up to 15% of patients, including those using the diclofenac epolamine patch. In an open-label controlled trial (n = 3,700), 4% of patients treated for 2 to 6 months had meaningful elevations of ALT and/or AST; elevations more than 8 times the ULN occurred in 1%. In the first 2 months elevations were seen in 42 of 51 patients and all marked elevations were reported. Almost all enzyme elevations were detected before symptoms were present. Laboratory abnormalities may progress, remain unchanged, or may be transient with continued treatment. While optimum timing for transaminase monitoring is not known, it is recommended to measure liver function tests, specifically ALT or SGPT markers, 4 to 8 weeks after initiating therapy and then at regular intervals. Abnormal liver test results, or signs or symptoms of liver dysfunction, should be further evaluated for evidence of a severe hepatic reaction. Discontinue diclofenac if clinical signs and symptoms consistent with liver disease develop, if abnormal liver tests persist or worsen, or if systemic manifestations such as eosinophilia occur. Instruct patients to stop diclofenac and to get immediate medical treatment if signs or symptoms of hepatotoxicity develop. Pancreatitis and hepatorenal syndrome have been reported postmarketing. In rare instances, hepatic porphyria was exacerbated by diclofenac.
Adverse CNS reactions have been reported during diclofenac oral, topical, and ophthalmic clinical trials, including dizziness (1% or more), headache (1% or more), and insomnia (6% or less). Asthenia (less than 3%), somnolence or drowsiness (1% to 2.6%), and paresthesias (2% or less) were reported with oral and topical administration. Migraine (0% to 1%) was observed with the topical gel, and hyperkinesis and hypoesthesia with the topical patch. In pediatric trials, headache and dizziness were reported in 10.2% and 4.1% of patients receiving oral diclofenac, respectively. Intravenous administration trials yielded reports of dizziness (10%), headache (10%), and insomnia (6%). Anxiety, confusion, depression, nightmares, abnormal dreams, malaise, nervousness, tremor, vertigo, seizures, coma, hallucinations, lethargy, irritability, memory impairment, disorientation, psychosis, procedural pain (3%), pain (less than 3%), and abnormal coordination were also reported. Falls, contusions, and accidental injury (0% to 4%) have been observed. Gait disturbance has been reported during postmarketing experience with topical diclofenac products.Overuse of drugs for treating acute headaches, including NSAIDs, may lead to medication overuse headache. Patients may experience migraine-like daily headaches or a significant increase in migraine attack frequency. Discontinuation of the overused drug and treatment of withdrawal symptoms (e.g., transient worsening of headache) may be necessary. Advise patients about the risks of medication overuse (e.g., use of NSAIDs or any combination of therapy for at least 10 days/month) and encourage them to keep a written record of headache frequency and drug use.
NSAIDs, such as diclofenac, may increase the risk of serious, potentially fatal, cardiovascular thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Increased relative risk estimates range from 10% to 50% or more based on the drug and dose studied. Risk may increase with increased exposure, as measured in dose or duration. Significant cardiovascular risk has been observed within days to weeks of NSAID initiation. The relative increase in cardiovascular thromboembolism over baseline appears to be similar in patients with or without cardiovascular disease or risk factors for it; however, patients with known cardiovascular disease or risk factors may be at greater risk because of a higher baseline risk of events. Observational studies found that giving NSAIDs in the post-MI period increases the risk of reinfarction, CV-related death, and all-cause mortality, beginning in the first week of treatment. Death occurred at a rate of 20 per 100 person years in NSAID recipients compared to 12 per 100 person years in non-exposed patients. An increased relative risk of death persisted over 5 years of follow-up. There is no consistent evidence that aspirin mitigates the increased risk of these serious events. NSAIDs are contraindicated in CABG surgery patients because, when used for post-operative CABG pain control, there was an increased risk of myocardial infarction and stroke. NSAIDs may increase the risk for heart failure; a meta-analysis demonstrated a 2-fold increase in hospitalization for heart failure in patients treated with nonselective or COX-2 selective NSAIDs compared to those who got placebo. In patients with heart failure, NSAID use has been associated with increased risk of MI, hospitalization for heart failure, and death. Avoid diclofenac in patients with severe heart failure unless treatment benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening heart failure. Retaining fluid has been observed with NSAIDs. NSAIDs inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, which potentiates water reabsorption. Hyponatremia due to water intoxication has been reported. Retaining fluid (more than 1%) has been seen with oral diclofenac. Hypertension (1% to 3%) was reported with oral and topical diclofenac; NSAID use can lead to new onset, or can worsen preexisting, hypertension. Hypotension (5%) was observed during oral, topical, and intravenous clinical trials. Arrhythmia exacerbation, chest pain (unspecified) (1% to 2%), blood pressure increase, sinus tachycardia, palpitations, flushing, premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), vasculitis, syncope, and other unspecified cardiovascular disorders were also seen with oral or topical administration. Cardiovascular events are not expected with ophthalmic use, as there is minimal systemic absorption and a short duration of therapy. Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of CV events, and advise them to seek medical help immediately if they occur. It is recommended to monitor cardiovascular function, weight, fluid status, blood pressure, serum creatinine concentrations, and blood urea nitrogen concentrations.
Renal and genitourinary adverse reactions are typically reported with oral diclofenac, as opposed to with ophthalmic or topical administration. Renal effects include renal dysfunction (1% to 10%), azotemia, interstitial nephritis, acute renal failure (unspecified), nephrotic syndrome, cystitis, dysuria, oliguria, polyuria, proteinuria, renal failure, nocturia, and increased urinary frequency. Increased serum creatinine and hematuria, however, were reported with both oral (0% to 2% rate for both reactions) and topical gel administration. Genitourinary effects include impotence (erectile dysfunction) and vaginal bleeding. Renal injury, including renal papillary necrosis, has occurred with long-term NSAIDs administration. Vasodilatory renal prostaglandins work in concert with the potent vasoconstrictor angiotensin II to maintain renal blood flow. NSAIDs potentiate water reabsorption by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. Renal toxicity has been reported for those in whom renal prostaglandins have a compensatory role in the maintenance of renal perfusion. Monitor renal function with long term diclofenac therapy. Hyperkalemia has been reported. In patients with severely impaired renal function, consider dose adjustment or an alternative therapy. Those most at risk have congestive heart failure, have impaired hepatic or renal function, take concomitant diuretics or nephrotoxic drugs, and are geriatric. Discontinue diclofenac if clinical signs and symptoms consistent with renal disease develop.
Several metabolic adverse events were reported with oral or topical diclofenac, though not with ophthalmic use. Weight gain, weight loss, appetite stimulation, appetite reduction, hyperglycemia (0% to 1%), hypoglycemia, hypercholesterolemia (0% to 1%), and creatine phosphokinase increase (0% to 4%) have been reported. Fluid retention has been observed with NSAIDs. Edema has been reported after oral administration (1% to 10%), although at higher rates (33% vs. 32% placebo) in a phase 3 postsurgical pain study with diclofenac 18 mg or 35 mg capsules by mouth 3 times daily. Use NSAIDs cautiously in patients with heart failure because of the potential for fluid retention and edema. Avoid diclofenac in anyone with severe heart failure unless any benefit outweighs the risk of worsening heart failure.
Unspecified infections and associated symptoms have been observed with oral, topical (3% to 4%), and ophthalmic (10% or less) diclofenac. Rhinitis and fever were reported with all formulations (2% and 4% with oral/topical, respectively; less than 3% for both with ophthalmic). During clinical trials for oral or topical administration sepsis, meningitis, pneumonia (0% to 2%), sinusitis (0% to 5%), upper respiratory tract infections (8%), urinary tract infection (3% to 7%), naso-pharyngitis (2% to 6%), bronchitis (3%), influenza (3%), sinus congestion (2%), laryngitis, flu syndrome (1% to 10%), and cough (4%) were reported. Chills (less than 3%), viral infection (less than 3%), and conjunctivitis (10% or less) have been observed with the ophthalmic solution.
There are rare reports of aseptic meningitis (1% or less) with NSAID therapy, including diclofenac but most commonly ibuprofen. Aseptic meningitis is not related to NSAID chemical class or prostaglandin inhibition. If it develops from 1 NSAID, use of another NSAID is not precluded; most patients can receive another drug without incident. There is 1 report of a patient with Sjogren's syndrome who experienced aseptic meningitis due to 3 different NSAIDs (naproxen, ibuprofen, and rofecoxib). It developed about 1 week after treatment initiation on each occasion and symptoms abated roughly 2 days after stopping each drug. The proposed mechanism of drug-induced aseptic meningitis is a Type III or IV immunological hypersensitivity reaction that occurs shortly after drug initiation, but can occur after years of drug usage. NSAID-induced aseptic meningitis is primarily reported with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but has occurred in healthy patients and in those with ankylosing spondylitis, connective tissue disease, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms include confusion, drowsiness, a general feeling of illness, severe headache, nausea, nuchal rigidity, and photophobia. It is a diagnosis of exclusion; if symptoms occur, discontinue the suspected drug and do not restart it unless rechallenge is desired.
Musculoskeletal adverse reactions have been observed with oral and topical diclofenac during clinical trials and postmarketing. Many reports may be related to the underlying condition being treated. Extremity pain (3%), osteoarthritis (5%), back pain (3%), arthralgia (3%), neck rigidity, and muscle cramps were reported with oral administration, and myalgia (2% to 3%), neck pain (0% to 2%), and arthrosis (0% to 2%) with the topical solution or gel. Musculoskeletal stiffness has been reported during postmarketing experience with topical diclofenac products. In pediatric trials, back pain (4.1%) and musculoskeletal pain (4.1%) were reported in patients receiving oral diclofenac.
Patients with asthma may experience exacerbations with diclofenac. It should be used with caution in those with asthma, and is contraindicated in aspirin-sensitive asthma. Those with aspirin-sensitive asthma may have chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, potential severe bronchospasm, and/or intolerance aspirin or other NSAIDs. Asthma exacerbations were reported in diclofenac clinical trials (0% to 2%; it is unknown if the reports were in those with aspirin-sensitive asthma). Dyspnea (2%), respiratory depression, laryngismus, epistaxis, hyperventilation, laryngeal edema, and edema of the pharynx were also reported.
Diclofenac use is associated with a variety of allergic and/or dermal reactions; advise patients to report signs and symptoms of skin rash, fever, and other hypersensitivity reactions. Dermatologic reactions reported with topical (gel, solution, or patch) and oral diclofenac include rash (unspecified) (2% to 46%; more than 1%, respectively), pruritus (4% to 52%; more than 1%), skin hypertrophy (less than 1%; less than 1%), alopecia (1% to 2%; less than 1%), pain (2%; 1% to 2%), photosensitivity (0% to 3%; less than 1%), skin discoloration (4%; less than 1%), skin carcinoma (less than 1%; 0% to 2%), vesicular rash (0% to 4%; less than 1%), and xerosis (4% to 32%; 0% to 3%). An application site reaction was reported with the 3% topical gel after use for 90 days (84% vs. 70% placebo), including symptoms of pruritus, rash, dermatitis, vesicles, irritation, and papules. Topical gel, solution, or patch use was also associated with application site reactions described as acneiform rash (0% to 1%), blister (0.9%), burning (less than 1%), contact dermatitis (2% to 33%), edema (3% to 4%), erythema (0.9% to 9%), hyperesthesia (0% to 3%), skin inflammation (0.9%), maculopapular rash (less than 1%), paresthesias (8% to 20%), pruritus (0.9%), purpuric rash (less than 1%), unspecified rash (0.9%), scabbing, skin atrophy (4%), skin exfoliation (6% to 24%), skin hypertonia (less than 1%), skin induration (2% to 9%), and skin irritation (0.9% to 4%). Systemic dermal allergic reactions may also occur. Oral administration yielded reports of bullous eruption, dermatitis, diaphoresis (1.2%), eczema, hyperhidrosis (4%), body odor, peripheral vasodilation (less than 1%), seborrhea (less than 1%), skin ulcer (1% to 2%), and urticaria (less than 1%). Serious allergic reactions including anaphylactoid reactions, angioedema, face edema, lip swelling, tongue swelling, and throat swelling have been reported and are possible with any formulation. Toxic epidermal necrolysis, exfoliative dermatitis, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome are also serious and potentially fatal skin reactions that have been (rarely) reported. Instruct patients to discontinue the medication and contact their health care provider if erythema, rash, blisters, or related skin reactions develop. Diclofenac has been associated with acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP). The nonfollicular, pustular, erythematous rash starts suddenly, is associated with fever above 38 degrees C, and is distinct from pustular psoriasis, although biopsy results in each reveal spongiform subcorneal pustules. Drugs are the main cause of AGEP. A period of 2 to 3 weeks after an inciting drug exposure appears necessary for the first episode of AGEP. Unintentional reexposure may cause a second episode within 2 days. Clinical presentation is diverse with cutaneous lesions beyond erythema and pustules present in half of the cases. For example, bullous lesions, edema, purpura, pruritus, and mucosal erosions are possible. The mean duration of the pustules is 9.7 days followed by annular desquamation, as long as the causative drug or factor is discontinued. The physiopathological mechanisms of AGEP have not been determined but the pathological criteria of edema, leukocytoclastic vasculitis, eosinophil exocytosis, and focal keratinocyte necrosis are distinctive. Pustule confluence or very small pustules may lead a clinician to make an incorrect diagnosis of TEN, drug-induced erythroderma, or staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome.
Diclofenac administration has caused adverse visual and auditory sensory effects. In clinical trials tinnitus (1% or more), hearing loss (reversible and irreversible), ear pain, and hearing impairment were reported. Ophthalmic reactions are usually observed with the ophthalmic solution, but have occurred with oral or topical use. Administration by any route can cause visual impairment or blurred vision (10% or less); systemic administration can cause cataracts and other unspecified eye disorders. Increased intraocular pressure (IOP) is not expected with ophthalmic administration. Reports of ocular hypertension (or elevated intraocular pressure) after cataract surgery (15%) or in other populations (10%) are not likely due to ophthalmic diclofenac. Similarly, keratitis was reported during cataract surgery studies (28% or less), but it was reported prior to drug therapy which makes ophthalmic diclofenac an unlikely contributor. Ocular pain (transient burning and stinging, 15%) and xerophthalmia (eye dryness, 30%) were reported after incisional refractive surgery. Ophthalmic administration may cause corneal erosion, which can lead to sight threatening ulceration or perforation; immediately discontinue use when there is evidence of corneal breakdown. Other adverse events reported with ophthalmic administration include lacrimation or lacrimation disorders (30% or less) and the following (all 10% or less): ocular irritation, ocular pruritus, ocular allergy, iritis, eyelid swelling, eye redness, corneal edema, corneal opacification, corneal deposits, corneal lesion, and ocular discharge. Counsel patients that adherence to the dosing recommendation may reduce the risk of serious adverse events. Postmarketing, corneal infiltrates, corneal thinning, and epithelial breakdown were reported with ophthalmic administration, and scotoma, vitreous floaters, night blindness, amblyopia, and diplopia were reported with oral administration.
Injection site reaction including infusion site pain (10%) and infusion site extravasation (3%) has been reported with diclofenac injectable solution.
Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), a multi-organ hypersensitivity reaction, has occurred with NSAIDs. Some of these events have been life-threatening or fatal. DRESS typically presents as fever, rash, and/or lymphadenopathy in conjunction with other organ system involvement including hepatitis, nephritis, hematologic abnormalities, myocarditis, or myositis sometimes resembling an acute viral infection. Eosinophilia is often present. Early manifestations such as fever and lymphadenopathy may be present without evidence of a rash. Discontinue the NSAID in patients presenting with such signs and symptoms in whom an alternative etiology cannot be identified.
Intravenous, oral, or topical diclofenac is contraindicated in patients with salicylate hypersensitivity or NSAID hypersensitivity who have experienced asthma, urticaria, or other allergic reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Severe, rarely fatal, anaphylactoid reactions to diclofenac have been reported in such patients. In addition, the use of immediate-release gel capsules is contraindicated in patients with bovine protein hypersensitivity. Cautious use of diclofenac is recommended for patients with asthma, and diclofenac should not be used in asthma patients with aspirin-sensitive asthma or the aspirin triad because of the approximate 5% cross-sensitivity that occurs between aspirin and NSAIDs. The triad typically occurs in asthmatic patients who experience rhinitis with or without nasal polyps, or who experience severe, potentially fatal, acute bronchospasm after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. The use of NSAIDs, including diclofenac, may cause serious and potentially fatal skin reactions including exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis. These serious events may occur without warning. Patients should be instructed to discontinue the medication and contact their health care provider if erythema, rash, blisters, or related skin reactions develop.
Chronic use of diclofenac can result in gastritis, ulceration with or without GI perforation, and/or GI bleeding, which can occur at any time, often without preceding symptoms. Serious and fatal GI adverse reactions including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine have been reported in patients receiving NSAIDs. Therefore, use intravenous, oral, or topical diclofenac with caution, if at all, in patients with a history of or active GI disease, including peptic ulcer disease or GI bleeding. Use with caution in patients with other factors known to increase GI bleeding risk including: concomitant oral corticosteroid therapy, anticoagulant therapy, antiplatelet drug use (including low-dose aspirin), chemotherapy, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), longer duration of NSAID therapy, tobacco smoking, alcoholism or use of alcohol, older age, poor general health status, ulcerative colitis, or Crohn's disease.Most spontaneous reports of fatal GI reactions are in elderly or debilitated patients; special care should be taken in treating this population. Consider alternative (non-NSAID) therapy in at-risk patients. Inform patients to promptly report signs and symptoms of GI ulcer or bleeding. Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest possible duration, and avoid use of more than 1 NSAID at a time. If a serious GI adverse event is suspected, promptly begin evaluation and treatment; discontinue diclofenac until a serious GI event is ruled out. In the setting of low-dose aspirin for cardiac prophylaxis, monitor patients closely for GI bleeding.
All forms of diclofenac should be used cautiously in patients with preexisting hematological disease (e.g., coagulopathy or hemophilia) or thrombocytopenia because of its effect on platelet function and vascular response to bleeding. Like other NSAIDs, diclofenac can prolong bleeding time. Diclofenac should be used with caution in patients undergoing surgery when a high degree of hemostasis is required. Diclofenac should be used with caution in patients with immunosuppression or neutropenia following myelosuppressive chemotherapy. NSAIDs may mask the signs of infection such as fever and pain in patients with bone marrow suppression.
There have been reports that ophthalmic administration of diclofenac may cause increased bleeding of ocular tissues (including hyphema) in conjunction with ocular surgery. Therefore, diclofenac ophthalmic solution should be used with caution in ocular surgery patients with known bleeding tendencies or who are receiving other medications that may prolong bleeding time. Ocular diclofenac is recommended to be used with caution in patients with diabetes, corneal denervation, corneal epithelial defects, xerophthalmia, rheumatoid arthritis, or repeat ocular surgery within a short time period, as they may be at greater risk for corneal adverse events. Some ocular adverse effects may be sight-threatening. Patients who are wearers of hydrogel soft contact lenses should use the diclofenac ophthalmic preparation with caution; use of ophthalmic diclofenac has caused ocular irritation, erythema, and burning in this patient population.
Anemia may be exacerbated with the use of NSAIDs, including orally administered and systemically absorbed topical diclofenac. This may be due to fluid retention, GI blood loss, or an incompletely described effect upon erythrogenesis. Patients who have initial hemoglobin values of 10 g/dL or less and who are to receive long-term NSAID therapy should have hemoglobin values determined periodically. Anemia has not been reported after the use of ophthalmic diclofenac products.
As oral diclofenac has been associated with serious hepatic adverse reactions in patients with and without a previous history of hepatic disease, such reactions may be possible in patients who receive any diclofenac product with systemic absorption, including intravenous, oral, and topical gel, patch, and solution formulations. Postmarketing experience has shown that severe hepatic reactions may occur at any time during systemic diclofenac therapy. Hepatic transaminases should be monitored within 4 to 8 weeks of beginning chronic diclofenac therapy and then at regular intervals thereafter. If signs and symptoms consistent with hepatic disease develop or if systemic manifestations occur (e.g., eosinophilia, rash, abdominal pain, diarrhea, dark urine, etc.) and abnormal liver tests are detected, persist, or worsen, diclofenac should be discontinued immediately. Patients should be informed of the warning signs and symptoms of hepatic toxicity (e.g., nausea, fatigue, lethargy, diarrhea, pruritus, jaundice, right upper quadrant tenderness, and 'flu-like' symptoms), and the appropriate action to take if they notice these symptoms. In rare instances, diclofenac has exacerbated hepatic porphyria; therefore, diclofenac should be avoided in this patient population.
The intravenous formulation of diclofenac is contraindicated in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment or renal failure in the perioperative period and who are at risk for hypovolemia. Correct volume status in dehydrated or hypovolemic patients prior to initiating diclofenac. Acute renal decompensation was observed in patients with renal impairment treated with intravenous diclofenac during clinical trials in the perioperative period. Intravenous diclofenac use is not recommended in patients with moderate to severe renal insufficiency. The use of topical diclofenac gel, solution, patch, and/or diclofenac oral products is not recommended in patients with advanced renal disease because of a lack of data. Due to the role of prostaglandins in renal function and hemodynamics, patients with renal disease should be closely observed (monitor the patient's renal function) during therapy with diclofenac due to an increased risk for adverse reactions during treatment. Dosage adjustment of oral therapy may be necessary. Avoid the use of diclofenac in patients with severe heart failure unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of worsening heart failure. Congestive heart failure and hypertension can be exacerbated by diclofenac. A meta-analysis of randomized, controlled trials demonstrated an approximately 2-fold increase in hospitalizations for heart failure among non-selective and COX-2 selective-treated patients compared to placebo. In patients with hypertension, monitor blood pressure during the initiation of NSAID treatment and throughout therapy. A meta-analysis demonstrated that the effect of NSAIDs on blood pressure is the greatest in hypertensive individuals receiving antihypertensive medication. Normotensive patients receiving antihypertensive therapy had higher increases in blood pressure than subjects with uncontrolled hypertension or normotensive subjects receiving no hypertensive therapy. Patients with renal impairment, renal failure, hepatic disease, diabetes mellitus, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), congestive heart failure, rheumatoid arthritis, edema, extracellular volume depletion (i.e., hypovolemia or dehydration), or sepsis; those taking diuretics or nephrotoxic drugs; and the elderly are at the highest risk for complications related to suboptimal renal perfusion. It is recommended not to initiate therapy with maximum doses in these patients due to the likely increased frequency of adverse reactions. Closely monitor the patient's blood pressure, renal function, and fluid status during intravenous, oral or topical diclofenac receipt. Such precautions do not apply to the use of diclofenac ophthalmic products; minimal systemic absorption and a short duration of therapy is associated with ophthalmic use of diclofenac.
The intravenous, oral, topical gel, topical solution, and patch formulations of diclofenac are contraindicated for the treatment of peri-operative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG); the package labeling for diclofenac ophthalmic products does not contain this contraindication. An increased incidence of myocardial infarction and stroke was found through analysis of data from two clinical trials involving the use of a COX-2 selective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for the treatment of pain in the first 10 to 14 days after CABG surgery. Diclofenac, like all NSAIDs, may cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thromboembolism, myocardial infarction, and stroke, which can be fatal. The FDA has warned that the risk of myocardial infarction or stroke can occur as early as the first weeks of using a NSAID, and risk may increase with higher doses and longer duration of use. NSAIDs may increase the risk of a cardiovascular thrombotic event in patients with or without underlying heart disease or risk factors for heart disease. Patients with known heart disease or risk factors appear to have a greater likelihood of an event following NSAID use, likely due to a higher baseline risk. Current evidence is insufficient to determine if the risk of an event is higher or lower for any particular NSAID compared to other NSAIDs. There is no consistent evidence that concomitant use of aspirin mitigates the increased risk for cardiovascular thrombotic events. Clinical practice guidelines state NSAIDs should not be administered to patients presenting with and hospitalized for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) due to increased risk of mortality, reinfarction, hypertension, heart failure, and myocardial rupture associated with their use. Avoid the use of diclofenac in patients with a recent myocardial infarction unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risks. Observational data from a national registry demonstrated that patients treated with NSAIDs in the post-MI period were at increased risk of reinfarction, cardiovascular-related death, and all-cause mortality beginning the first week of treatment. An increased relative risk of death in NSAID users continued during the follow-up period of 4 years. Data demonstrate that patients treated with NSAIDs were more likely to die in the first year following a myocardial infarction compared to those not treated with NSAIDs. Caution is recommended when administering diclofenac to patients with cardiac disease, cardiomyopathy, cardiac arrhythmias (e.g., tachycardia), significant coronary artery disease (including acute myocardial infarction, angina, or history of myocardial infarction), peripheral vascular disease, cerebrovascular disease (e.g., stroke, transient ischemic attack), hypertension, pre-existing renal disease, or fluid retention. Closely monitor blood pressure during diclofenac receipt. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible to minimize the potential risk for an adverse cardiovascular event. Inform patients to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any signs or symptoms of a cardiovascular thrombotic event.
Avoid diclofenac use during the third trimester of pregnancy (starting at 30 weeks of gestation) due to the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus and persistent pulmonary hypertension in the neonate. If NSAID treatment is deemed necessary between 20 to 30 weeks of pregnancy, limit use to the lowest effective dose and shortest duration possible. Consider ultrasound monitoring of amniotic fluid if NSAID treatment extends beyond 48 hours. Discontinue the NSAID if oligohydramnios occurs and follow up according to clinical practice. Use of NSAIDs around 20 weeks gestation or later in pregnancy may cause fetal renal dysfunction leading to oligohydramnios, and in some cases, neonatal renal impairment. These adverse outcomes are seen, on average, after days to weeks of treatment, although oligohydramnios has been infrequently reported as soon as 48 hours after NSAID initiation. Oligohydramnios is often, but not always, reversible with treatment discontinuation. Complications of prolonged oligohydramnios may include limb contractures and delayed lung maturation. In some postmarketing cases of impaired neonatal renal function, invasive procedures such as exchange transfusion or dialysis were required. Observational data regarding embryofetal risks of NSAID use during the first trimester is inconclusive. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of diclofenac in pregnant women.
Diclofenac is excreted in human milk in small amounts. A diclofenac concentration of 100 mcg/L, equivalent to an infant dose of approximately 0.03 mg/kg/day, was detected in the milk of 1 woman treated with 150 mg/day oral diclofenac salt. Diclofenac was not detectable in the breast milk of 12 women using either 100 mg/day orally for 7 days or a single 50 mg intramuscular dose in the immediate postpartum period. There are no data on the effects of diclofenac on milk production or the breastfed infant. Alternative analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs considered by previous American Academy of Pediatric recommendations to be usually compatible with breast-feeding include acetaminophen, ibuprofen, indomethacin, naproxen, and piroxicam. Systemic absorption of diclofenac following ophthalmic administration is below quantifiable limits. It is unknown whether diclofenac reaches detectable quantities in breast milk following ophthalmic administration. Consider the developmental and health benefits of breast-feeding along with the mother's clinical need for diclofenac and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from diclofenac or the underlying maternal condition.
The use of diclofenac epolamine patch is contraindicated on non-intact skin or damaged skin such as open wounds (skin abrasion), skin infections or infected lesions, eczema, burns, or exudative dermatitis; additionally, do not apply the patch to skin with exfoliative dermatitis. Diclofenac 3% topical gel (Solaraze) is contraindicated on damaged skin resulting from any etiology, including exudative dermatitis, eczema, infected lesions, burn, or wounds. Do not apply the topical solution to open wounds, skin infections, inflammations, or exfoliative dermatitis. Do not use occlusive dressing over topical applications of diclofenac; such use has not been studied with diclofenac gel formulation and is specifically prohibited with topical solution. Clothes and gloves that cover the site of application should not be worn for at least 10 minutes following application. Diclofenac topical patch may be covered with non-occlusive mesh netting or the edges taped if needed to secure the application. Further, advise patients prescribed diclofenac topical solution to avoid use of a heating pad over area of product application ; similar caution may be reasonable with other topical formulations. Avoid ocular exposure of the topical gel, solution, and patch. If eye contact occurs, immediately wash out the eye with water or saline. Evaluate the patient if irritation persists for more than an hour.
Avoid artificial and natural sunlight (UV) exposure including sunlamps while using topical diclofenac gel or solution; photosensitivity has been reported with use. Also, in animal studies, topical diclofenac treatment resulted in an earlier onset of ultraviolet light-induced skin tumors. Use of diclofenac 3% topical gel is contraindicated in patients with a known benzyl alcohol hypersensitivity.
Physicians and dispensing pharmacists are encouraged to question patients or caregivers about the presence of children and pets in the home, either full time or temporary, and to counsel patients regarding the dangers to children and pets from accidental exposure to the diclofenac epolamine patch. Children or pets could suffer serious side effects from chewing or ingesting a new or used patch. Instruct patients to store and dispose the patches out of the reach of children and pets.
Diclofenac powder for oral solution (Cambia) contains phenylalanine; do not prescribe this dosage form for patients with phenylketonuria or other phenylketone-related sensitivity.
As with any systemic NSAID, the use of diclofenac should be approached with caution in the geriatric patient. The elderly and debilitated are typically at the highest risk for developing complications related to NSAID therapy, such as GI ulceration, fluid retention, cardiovascular side effects, and reduced renal perfusion. Ophthalmic NSAIDs such as diclofenac do not warrant these same precautions. According to the Beers Criteria, NSAIDs are considered potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) for use in geriatric patients. NSAIDs may cause new or worsening gastric and duodenal ulcers, and there is an increased risk of GI bleeding and peptic ulcer disease in those above 75 years of age, or those taking oral or parenteral corticosteroids, anticoagulants, or antiplatelet medications. The risk of ulcers, gross bleeding, or perforation is cumulative with continued use. Avoid the chronic use of systemic NSAIDs in high-risk geriatric patients, unless other alternatives are not effective and the patient can take a gastroprotective agent. Avoid use in patients with a history of gastric or duodenal ulcers unless other alternatives are not effective, and the patient can take a gastroprotective agent. The use of a gastroprotective agent, like a proton pump inhibitor or misoprostol, reduces but does not eliminate GI risks. NSAIDs may also increase blood pressure and induce kidney injury. The Beers Panel recommends avoiding NSAIDs in geriatric patients with the following conditions due to the potential for symptom exacerbation or adverse effects: symptomatic heart failure or chronic kidney disease Stage 4 or higher (CrCl less than 30 mL/minute) (acute kidney injury, further decline of renal function). Use caution in patients with asymptomatic heart failure. The federal Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (OBRA) regulates medication use in residents of long-term care facilities (LTCFs); NSAIDs should be reserved for symptoms and inflammatory conditions for which lower risk analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen) have either failed or are not clinically indicated. NSAIDs may cause GI bleeding in patients with a prior history of, or with increased risk for, GI bleeding. Also, NSAIDs may cause or worsen renal failure, increase blood pressure, or exacerbate heart failure.
NSAIDs, such as diclofenac, may pose a reproductive risk by delaying or preventing prostaglandin-mediated rupture of ovarian follicles, which has been associated with reversible infertility. Small studies of women treated with NSAIDs demonstrated a reversible delay in ovulation. Consider withdrawal of NSAIDs in women who have difficulties conceiving or who are undergoing infertility evaluation.
For the treatment of osteoarthritis:
NOTE: Different oral formulations of diclofenac are not bioequivalent even if of equivalent milligram strength.
Oral dosage (immediate-release tablets, Cataflam):
Adults: 50 mg PO 2 to 3 times daily. Dosages more than 150 mg/day are not recommended. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual treatment goals.
Oral dosage (immediate-release capsules, Zorvolex):
Adults: 35 mg PO 3 times daily. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual treatment goals.
Oral dosage (delayed-release tablets only, Voltaren):
Adults: 50 mg PO 2 to 3 times daily or 75 mg PO twice daily. Dosages more than 150 mg/day are not recommended. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual treatment goals.
Oral dosage (extended-release tablets, Voltaren XR):
Adults: 100 mg PO once daily. Dosages more than 150 mg/day are not recommended. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual treatment goals. Diclofenac extended-release tablets are not indicated for the management of acute exacerbations and should only be used as chronic maintenance therapy.
Topical dosage (Voltaren and generic equivalents):
NOTE: Diclofenac gel is only indicated for the relief of the pain of osteoarthritis of joints amenable to topical treatment such as the knees and hands. The gel was not evaluated for use on joints of the spine, hip, or shoulder.
Adults: 4 g (4.5 inches) topically per knee, ankle, or foot joint 4 times daily (Max: 16 g/day per lower extremity joint) and/or 2 g (2.25 inches) topically per elbow, wrist, or hand joint 4 times daily (Max: 8 g/day per upper extremity joint). Do not exceed a total dose of 32 g/day over all affected joints. Do not use on more than 2 body areas at the same time.
Topical dosage (Venngel One 1% gel):
NOTE: Diclofenac gel is only indicated for the relief of the pain of osteoarthritis of joints amenable to topical treatment such as the knees and hands. The gel was not evaluated for use on joints of the spine, hip, or shoulder.
Adults: 4 g (4.5 inches) topically per knee, ankle, or foot joint 4 times daily (Max: 16 g/day per lower extremity joint) and/or 2 g (2.25 inches) topically per elbow, wrist, or hand joint 4 times daily (Max: 8 g/day per upper extremity joint). Do not exceed a total dose of 32 g/day over all affected joints.
Topical dosage (Pennsaid 1.5% Topical Solution and generic equivalents):
NOTE: The topical solution is indicated for the relief of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee(s) and was not evaluated for use on other joints.
Adults: 40 drops topically to each affected knee 4 times daily. Apply 10 drops at a time, directly on the knee or first into the hand and then onto the knee; spread the 10 drops around the knee, and repeat this procedure until the entire dose of 40 drops has been applied.
Topical dosage (Inflamma-K kit; diclofenac 1.5% topical solution with Salonpas patch):
Adults: 40 drops topically to each affected knee 4 times daily. Apply 10 drops at a time, directly on the knee or first into the hand and then onto the knee; spread the 10 drops around the knee, and repeat this procedure until the entire dose of 40 drops has been applied. Cover affected area with the Salonpas patch for up to 8 hours after an application.
Topical dosage (Diclovix kit; diclofenac 1.5% topical solution with Viva patch):
Adults: 40 drops topically to each affected knee 4 times daily. Apply 10 drops at a time, directly on the knee or first into the hand and then onto the knee; spread the 10 drops around the knee, and repeat this procedure until the entire dose of 40 drops has been applied. Cover affected area with the Viva patch for 8 to 12 hours after an application.
Topical dosage (Pennsaid 2% Topical Solution):
Adults: 40 mg (2 pump actuations) topically to each affected knee twice daily. Deliver the entire dose directly into the palm of the hand then apply evenly around the front, back, and sides of the knee.
For the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis:
NOTE: Different oral formulations of diclofenac are not bioequivalent even if of equivalent milligram strength.
Oral dosage (immediate-release tablets only, Cataflam):
Adults: 50 mg PO 3 to 4 times daily. Dosages greater than 200 mg/day PO are not recommended.
Oral dosage (delayed-release tablets only, Voltaren):
Adults: 50 mg PO 3 to 4 times daily, or 75 mg PO twice daily. Dosages greater than 200 mg/day PO are not recommended.
Oral dosage (extended-release tablets only, Voltaren XR):
Adults: 100 mg PO once daily for chronic therapy. In the rare cases where 100 mg/day is unsatisfactory, the dose may be increased to 100 mg PO twice daily if the benefits outweigh the risks. Dosages greater than 200 mg/day PO are not recommended. Voltaren-XR is not indicated for the management of acute exacerbations and should only be used as chronic maintenance therapy.
For the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis:
NOTE: Different oral formulations of diclofenac are not bioequivalent even if of equivalent milligram strength.
Oral dosage (delayed-release tablets only, Voltaren):
Adults: 100 to 125 mg/day PO in 4 to 5 divided doses. Usually 25 mg PO 4 times daily with an additional 25-mg dose at bedtime, if needed. When a satisfactory response is achieved the dosage should be reduced to the minimum required to provide relief of symptoms. The safe and effective use of doses exceeding 125 mg/day PO has not been established for ankylosing spondylitis.
For the acute treatment of migraine with or without aura:
NOTE: Different oral formulations of diclofenac are not bioequivalent even if of equivalent milligram strength.
NOTE: Diclofenac is not indicated for migraine prophylaxis.
Oral dosage (powder for oral solution, Cambia):
Adults: 50 mg PO as a single dose. Guidelines classify diclofenac as having established efficacy for the treatment of acute migraine.
For the treatment of mild pain or moderate pain:
NOTE: Different oral formulations of diclofenac are not bioequivalent even if of equivalent milligram strength.
NOTE: Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals.
Oral dosage (immediate-release tablets, Cataflam):
Adults: 50 mg PO 3 times daily. May give 100 mg PO once initially.
Oral dosage (immediate-release capsules, Zipsor):
Adults: 25 mg PO 4 times daily.
Children and Adolescents 12 to 17 years: 25 mg PO 4 times daily.
Oral dosage (immediate-release capsules, Zorvolex):
Adults: 18 or 35 mg PO 3 times daily.
Topical dosage (topical system, Flector):
Adults: 1 topical system to the most painful area twice daily. Guidelines recommend treating patients with acute pain from non-low back, musculoskeletal injuries with topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with or without menthol gel as first-line therapy.
Children and Adolescents 6 to 17 years: 1 topical system to the most painful area twice daily.
Topical dosage (topical system, Licart):
Adults: 1 topical system to the most painful area once daily.
Intravenous dosage:
Adults: 37.5 mg IV every 6 hours as needed. Max: 150 mg/day.
For the treatment of moderate to severe pain alone or in combination with opioid analgesics:
Intravenous dosage:
Adults: 37.5 mg IV every 6 hours as needed. Do not exceed 150 mg/day.
For the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea:
Oral dosage (immediate-release tablets, Cataflam):
Adults: 50 mg PO 3 times daily. May give 100 mg PO once initially.
For the treatment of postoperative ocular inflammation after cataract extraction:
Ophthalmic dosage:
Adults: 1 drop to the affected eye(s) 4 times daily, starting 24 hours after cataract surgery and continuing for 2 weeks.
For the treatment of ocular pain and photophobia in patients undergoing corneal refractive surgery:
Ophthalmic dosage:
Adults: 1 drop to the operative eye within 1 hour before surgery, then 1 to 2 drops to the operative eye within 15 minutes after surgery, followed by 1 to 2 drops to the operative eye 4 times daily for up to 3 days.
For the treatment of actinic keratosis:
Topical dosage (3% gel):
Adults: Apply amount sufficient to adequately cover each lesion (i.e., 0.5 g on each 5 cm x 5 cm lesion site) topically twice daily for 60 to 90 days. Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals. Complete healing of the lesion(s) or optimal therapeutic effect may not be evident for up to 30 days after the cessation of therapy.
For the treatment of acute gout* or acute gouty arthritis*:
Oral dosage (delayed-release tablets, Voltaren):
Adults: 75 mg PO twice daily as needed until the attack has subsided.
Maximum Dosage Limits:
-Adults
150 mg/day IV; 200 mg/day PO in rheumatoid arthritis; 150 mg/day PO in osteoarthritis, dysmenorrhea, or mild-to-moderate pain; 125 mg/day PO in ankylosing spondylitis; 32 g/day of the 1% topical gel (Voltaren and Venngel One) (16 g/day to any 1 affected joint of the lower extremities or 8 g/day to any 1 affected joint of the upper extremities), do not use the 1% topical gel on more than 2 body areas at the same time (Voltaren); 160 drops/knee/day of the topical solution; 2 patches/day topically (Flector); 1 topical system/day topically (Licart).
-Geriatric
150 mg/day IV; 200 mg/day PO in rheumatoid arthritis; 150 mg/day PO in osteoarthritis, dysmenorrhea, or mild-to-moderate pain; 125 mg/day PO in ankylosing spondylitis; 32 g/day of the 1% topical gel (Voltaren and Venngel One) (16 g/day to any 1 affected joint of the lower extremities or 8 g/day to any 1 affected joint of the upper extremities), do not use the 1% topical gel on more than 2 body areas at the same time (Voltaren); 160 drops/knee/day of the topical solution; 2 patches/day topically (Flector); 1 topical system/day topically (Licart).
-Adolescents
2 patches/day topically (Flector); 100 mg/day PO for mild to moderate pain (Zipsor); safety and efficacy of other dosage forms have not been established.
-Children
12 years: 2 patches/day topically (Flector); 100 mg/day PO for mild to moderate pain (Zipsor); safety and efficacy of other dosage forms have not been established.
6 to 11 years: 2 patches/day topically (Flector); safety and efficacy of other dosage forms have not been established.
1 to 5 years: Safety and efficacy have not been established.
-Infants
Safety and efficacy have not been established.
-Neonates
Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Patients with Hepatic Impairment Dosing
Patients with hepatic impairment may require reduced doses of diclofenac compared to patients with normal hepatic function. Initiate therapy at the lowest dose and discontinue if not effective. Immediately discontinue diclofenac if signs and symptoms consistent with hepatic disease develop or if systemic manifestations occur (e.g., eosinophilia, rash, etc.) and abnormal liver tests are detected, persist, or worsen.
Patients with Renal Impairment Dosing
Intravenous diclofenac is contraindicated in patients with moderate to severe renal insufficiency in the perioperative period and who are at risk for volume depletion. Specific guidelines for dosage adjustments in renal impairment are not available; dosage reduction or initiation of diclofenac therapy at the lower end of the usual dosage range is prudent in patients with renal impairment. According to the manufacturers, use of diclofenac intravenous solution, topical gel, patch, or solution, oral tablet or capsule, or diclofenac potassium oral tablet, capsule, or powder for solution is not recommended in patients with advanced renal disease. Patients must be well hydrated prior to the use of the intravenous formulation, and caution should be used when initiating intravenous diclofenac therapy in patients with considerable dehydration.
*non-FDA-approved indication
Abciximab: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant platelet inhibitor and chronic nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of bleeding.
Acebutolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin, ASA; Caffeine: (Major) Concomitant use of analgesic doses of aspirin and diclofenac is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of bleeding and renal impairment. Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone. Diclofenac is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin: (Major) Concomitant use of analgesic doses of aspirin and diclofenac is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of bleeding and renal impairment. Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone. Diclofenac is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin; Diphenhydramine: (Major) Concomitant use of analgesic doses of aspirin and diclofenac is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of bleeding and renal impairment. Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone. Diclofenac is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection.
Acetaminophen; Ibuprofen: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Acyclovir: (Moderate) Monitor patients for signs of worsening renal function during coadministration of acyclovir and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Coadministration may increase the risk for drug-induced nephrotoxicity.
Adefovir: (Moderate) Chronic coadministration of adefovir with nephrotoxic drugs, such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs may increase the risk of developing nephrotoxicity even in patients who have normal renal function. The use of adefovir with NSAIDs may be done cautiously. As stated in the current adefovir prescribing information, 'Ibuprofen (800 mg PO three times daily), when given concomitantly with adefovir dipivoxil, increased the adefovir Cmax by 33% and AUC by 23%, as well as urinary recovery. The increase appears to be due to higher oral bioavailability, not a reduction in renal clearance of adefovir.' In an in vitro investigation, the antiviral effect of adefovir was unaltered and the renal proximal tubule accumulation of adefovir was inhibited by the presence of a NSAID. Adefovir is efficiently transported by the human renal organic anion transporter 1, and the presence of this transporter appears to mediate the accumulation of the drug in renal proximal tubules. The in vitro study suggests that the use of a NSAID with adefovir may potentially reduce the nephrotoxic potential of adefovir. Of course, NSAIDs are associated with nephrotoxicity of their own; therefore, further data on the interaction between NSAIDs and adefovir in humans are needed.
Albuterol; Budesonide: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Aldesleukin, IL-2: (Major) Aldesleukin, IL-2 may cause nephrotoxicity. Concurrent administration of drugs possessing nephrotoxic effects, such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents (NSAIDs), with Aldesleukin, IL-2 may increase the risk of kidney dysfunction. In addition, reduced kidney function secondary to Aldesleukin, IL-2 treatment may delay elimination of concomitant medications and increase the risk of adverse events from those drugs.
Alendronate: (Minor) Monitor for gastrointestinal adverse events during concurrent use of alendronate and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Both medications have been associated with gastrointestinal irritation although data suggest concomitant use introduces little additional risk for adverse effects for most patients.
Alendronate; Cholecalciferol: (Minor) Monitor for gastrointestinal adverse events during concurrent use of alendronate and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Both medications have been associated with gastrointestinal irritation although data suggest concomitant use introduces little additional risk for adverse effects for most patients.
Aliskiren: (Moderate) NSAIDs may attenuate the antihypertensive effects of aliskiren by inhibiting the synthesis of vasodilatory prostaglandins. In patients who are elderly, volume-depleted (including those on diuretic therapy), or with compromised renal function who are being treated with NSAIDs, the coadministration of aliskiren may result in a further deterioration of renal function, including acute renal failure. These effects are usually reversible. Therefore, blood pressure and renal function should be monitored closely when an NSAID is administered to a patient taking aliskiren.
Aliskiren; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) NSAIDs may attenuate the antihypertensive effects of aliskiren by inhibiting the synthesis of vasodilatory prostaglandins. In patients who are elderly, volume-depleted (including those on diuretic therapy), or with compromised renal function who are being treated with NSAIDs, the coadministration of aliskiren may result in a further deterioration of renal function, including acute renal failure. These effects are usually reversible. Therefore, blood pressure and renal function should be monitored closely when an NSAID is administered to a patient taking aliskiren.
Alpha-blockers: (Moderate) If nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and an antihypertensive drug are concurrently used, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of renal insufficiency and blood pressure control. Doses of antihypertensive medications may require adjustment in patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs. NSAIDs, to varying degrees, have been associated with an elevation in blood pressure. This effect is most significant in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive agents and long-term NSAID therapy. NSAIDs cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation, which may result in a reduction in renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and an increase in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain. Patients who rely upon renal prostaglandins to maintain renal perfusion may have acute renal blood flow reduction with NSAID usage. Elderly patients may be at increased risk of adverse effects from combined long-term NSAID therapy and antihypertensive agents, especially diuretics, due to age-related decreases in renal function and an increased risk of stroke and coronary artery disease.
Alteplase: (Moderate) NSAIDs can cause GI bleeding, inhibit platelet aggregation, prolong bleeding time; these pharmacodynamic effects may be increased when administered to patients receiving thrombolytic agents. Patients receiving these drugs concurrently should be monitored closely for bleeding.
Altretamine: (Major) Altretamine causes mild to moderate dose-related myelosuppression. Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of altretamine, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Amikacin: (Moderate) It is possible that additive nephrotoxicity may occur in patients who receive nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) concurrently with other nephrotoxic agents, such as amikacin.
Amiloride: (Moderate) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may reduce the natriuretic effect of diuretics in some patients. NSAIDS have been associated with an inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which may result in reduced renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and increases in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain. Patients taking diuretics and NSAIDS concurrently are at higher risk of developing renal insufficiency. If an NSAID and a diuretic are used concurrently, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of decreased renal function and diuretic efficacy.
Amiloride; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may reduce the natriuretic effect of diuretics in some patients. NSAIDS have been associated with an inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which may result in reduced renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and increases in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain. Patients taking diuretics and NSAIDS concurrently are at higher risk of developing renal insufficiency. If an NSAID and a diuretic are used concurrently, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of decreased renal function and diuretic efficacy.
Aminolevulinic Acid: (Moderate) Agents that inhibit prostaglandin synthesis such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), could decrease the efficacy of photosensitizing agents used in photodynamic therapy. Avoidance of NSAIDs before and during photodynamic therapy may be advisable.
Aminosalicylate sodium, Aminosalicylic acid: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with aminosalicylic acid due to an increased risk of gastrointestinal toxicity and renal impairment, with little or no increase in efficacy.
Amiodarone: (Moderate) Monitor for an increase in diclofenac-related adverse reactions if coadministration with amiodarone is necessary; adjust the dose of diclofenac if needed. Diclofenac is a CYP2C9 substrate and amiodarone is a moderate CYP2C9 inhibitor.
Amlodipine; Benazepril: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Amlodipine; Celecoxib: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of celecoxib with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Amlodipine; Olmesartan: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Amlodipine; Valsartan: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Amlodipine; Valsartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Amobarbital: (Moderate) Caution is advised when administering diclofenac with inducers of CYP2C9, such as barbiturates. When used together, the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may decrease, potentially resulting in impaired efficacy. Higher diclofenac doses may be needed. In addition, phenobarbital toxicity has been reported to have occurred in a patient on chronic phenobarbital treatment after diclofenac initiation.
Amphotericin B lipid complex (ABLC): (Moderate) Concurrent use of amphotericin B and other nephrotoxic medications, including nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may enhance the potential for drug-induced renal toxicity. Monitor renal function carefully during concurrent therapy. Amphotericin B dosage reduction may be necessary if renal impairment occurs.
Amphotericin B liposomal (LAmB): (Moderate) Concurrent use of amphotericin B and other nephrotoxic medications, including nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may enhance the potential for drug-induced renal toxicity. Monitor renal function carefully during concurrent therapy. Amphotericin B dosage reduction may be necessary if renal impairment occurs.
Amphotericin B: (Moderate) Concurrent use of amphotericin B and other nephrotoxic medications, including nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may enhance the potential for drug-induced renal toxicity. Monitor renal function carefully during concurrent therapy. Amphotericin B dosage reduction may be necessary if renal impairment occurs.
Anagrelide: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant platelet inhibitor and chronic nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of bleeding.
Angiotensin II receptor antagonists: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Antithrombin III: (Moderate) An additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving anticoagulants in combination with other agents known to increase the risk of bleeding such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Monitor clinical and laboratory response closely during concurrent use.
Apalutamide: (Moderate) Monitor for decreased efficacy of diclofenac if coadministration with apalutamide is necessary; a dosage adjustment of diclofenac may be necessary. Diclofenac is a CYP2C9 substrate and apalutamide is a CYP2C9 inducer.
Apixaban: (Major) An additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving anticoagulants in combination with other agents known to increase the risk of bleeding such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Monitor clinical and laboratory response closely during concurrent use.
Aprepitant, Fosaprepitant: (Moderate) Use caution if diclofenac and aprepitant, fosaprepitant are used concurrently, and monitor for an increase in diclofenac-related adverse effects for several days after administration of a multi-day aprepitant regimen. In vitro, diclofenac is a CYP3A4 substrate. Aprepitant, when administered as a 3-day oral regimen (125 mg/80 mg/80 mg), is a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor and inducer and may increase plasma concentrations of diclofenac. For example, a 5-day oral aprepitant regimen increased the AUC of another CYP3A4 substrate, midazolam (single dose), by 2.3-fold on day 1 and by 3.3-fold on day 5. After a 3-day oral aprepitant regimen, the AUC of midazolam (given on days 1, 4, 8, and 15) increased by 25% on day 4, and then decreased by 19% and 4% on days 8 and 15, respectively. As a single 125 mg or 40 mg oral dose, the inhibitory effect of aprepitant on CYP3A4 is weak, with the AUC of midazolam increased by 1.5-fold and 1.2-fold, respectively. After administration, fosaprepitant is rapidly converted to aprepitant and shares many of the same drug interactions. However, as a single 150 mg intravenous dose, fosaprepitant only weakly inhibits CYP3A4 for a duration of 2 days; there is no evidence of CYP3A4 induction. Fosaprepitant 150 mg IV as a single dose increased the AUC of midazolam (given on days 1 and 4) by approximately 1.8-fold on day 1; there was no effect on day 4. Less than a 2-fold increase in the midazolam AUC is not considered clinically important. Aprepitant is also a CYP2C9 inducer and diclofenac is a CYP2C9 substrate in vitro. Administration of a CYP2C9 substrate, tolbutamide, on days 1, 4, 8, and 15 with a 3-day regimen of oral aprepitant (125 mg/80 mg/80 mg) decreased the tolbutamide AUC by 23% on day 4, 28% on day 8, and 15% on day 15. The AUC of tolbutamide was decreased by 8% on day 2, 16% on day 4, 15% on day 8, and 10% on day 15 when given prior to oral administration of aprepitant 40 mg on day 1, and on days 2, 4, 8, and 15. The effects of aprepitant on tolbutamide were not considered significant.
Aprotinin: (Moderate) The manufacturer recommends using aprotinin cautiously in patients that are receiving drugs that can affect renal function, such as NSAIDs, as the risk of renal impairment may be increased.
Argatroban: (Moderate) An additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving anticoagulants in combination with other agents known to increase the risk of bleeding such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Monitor clinical and laboratory response closely during concurrent use.
Arsenic Trioxide: (Minor) A theoretical increased risk of bleeding may occur when NSAIDs are used with agents that cause clinically significant thrombocytopenia including myelosuppressive antineoplastic agents.
Artesunate: (Moderate) Monitor for an increase in artesunate-related side effects if coadministered with diclofenac. Coadministration may increase the exposure of the active metabolite of artesunate, dihydroartemisinin (DHA). DHA is a UGT substrate, and diclofenac is a strong UGT inhibitor.
Aspirin, ASA: (Major) Concomitant use of analgesic doses of aspirin and diclofenac is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of bleeding and renal impairment. Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone. Diclofenac is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection.
Aspirin, ASA; Butalbital; Caffeine: (Major) Concomitant use of analgesic doses of aspirin and diclofenac is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of bleeding and renal impairment. Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone. Diclofenac is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection. (Moderate) Caution is advised when administering diclofenac with inducers of CYP2C9, such as barbiturates. When used together, the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may decrease, potentially resulting in impaired efficacy. Higher diclofenac doses may be needed. In addition, phenobarbital toxicity has been reported to have occurred in a patient on chronic phenobarbital treatment after diclofenac initiation.
Aspirin, ASA; Caffeine: (Major) Concomitant use of analgesic doses of aspirin and diclofenac is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of bleeding and renal impairment. Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone. Diclofenac is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection.
Aspirin, ASA; Caffeine; Orphenadrine: (Major) Concomitant use of analgesic doses of aspirin and diclofenac is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of bleeding and renal impairment. Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone. Diclofenac is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection.
Aspirin, ASA; Carisoprodol: (Major) Concomitant use of analgesic doses of aspirin and diclofenac is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of bleeding and renal impairment. Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone. Diclofenac is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection.
Aspirin, ASA; Carisoprodol; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of analgesic doses of aspirin and diclofenac is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of bleeding and renal impairment. Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone. Diclofenac is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection.
Aspirin, ASA; Citric Acid; Sodium Bicarbonate: (Major) Concomitant use of analgesic doses of aspirin and diclofenac is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of bleeding and renal impairment. Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone. Diclofenac is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection.
Aspirin, ASA; Dipyridamole: (Major) Concomitant use of analgesic doses of aspirin and diclofenac is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of bleeding and renal impairment. Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone. Diclofenac is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection. (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant platelet inhibitor and chronic nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of bleeding.
Aspirin, ASA; Omeprazole: (Major) Concomitant use of analgesic doses of aspirin and diclofenac is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of bleeding and renal impairment. Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone. Diclofenac is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection.
Aspirin, ASA; Oxycodone: (Major) Concomitant use of analgesic doses of aspirin and diclofenac is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of bleeding and renal impairment. Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone. Diclofenac is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection.
Aspirin, ASA; Pravastatin: (Major) Concomitant use of analgesic doses of aspirin and diclofenac is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of bleeding and renal impairment. Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone. Diclofenac is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection.
Atazanavir: (Moderate) Caution is warranted when atazanavir is administered with diclofenac as there is a potential for elevated diclofenac concentrations. Diclofenac is a substrate of CYP3A4; atazanavir is an inhibitor of CYP3A4.
Atazanavir; Cobicistat: (Moderate) Caution is warranted when atazanavir is administered with diclofenac as there is a potential for elevated diclofenac concentrations. Diclofenac is a substrate of CYP3A4; atazanavir is an inhibitor of CYP3A4. (Moderate) Caution is warranted when cobicistat is administered with diclofenac as there is a potential for increased diclofenac concentrations. Diclofenac is a substrate of CYP3A4 and CYP2C9. Cobicistat is an inhibitor of CYP3A4.
Atenolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Atenolol; Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Azathioprine: (Moderate) NSAIDs should be used with caution in patients receiving immunosuppressives as they may mask fever, pain, swelling and other signs and symptoms of an infection.
Azelastine; Fluticasone: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Azilsartan: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Azilsartan; Chlorthalidone: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Bacitracin: (Major) Avoid concurrent use of bacitracin with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Coadministration may increase the risk for drug-induced nephrotoxicity.
Barbiturates: (Moderate) Caution is advised when administering diclofenac with inducers of CYP2C9, such as barbiturates. When used together, the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may decrease, potentially resulting in impaired efficacy. Higher diclofenac doses may be needed. In addition, phenobarbital toxicity has been reported to have occurred in a patient on chronic phenobarbital treatment after diclofenac initiation.
Beclomethasone: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Benazepril: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Benazepril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Benzoic Acid; Hyoscyamine; Methenamine; Methylene Blue; Phenyl Salicylate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with phenyl salicylate due to an increased risk of gastrointestinal toxicity and renal impairment, with little or no increase in efficacy.
Beta-blockers: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Betamethasone: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Betaxolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Betrixaban: (Major) Monitor patients closely and promptly evaluate any signs or symptoms of bleeding if betrixaban and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used concomitantly. Coadministration of betrixaban and NSAIDs may increase the risk of bleeding.
Bictegravir; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Alafenamide: (Moderate) Monitor for nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) or emtricitabine-related adverse events during concomitant use. Concomitant use may increase NSAID or emtricitabine concentrations. Coadministration of drugs that reduce renal function or compete for active tubular secretion, such as NSAIDs and emtricitabine, may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Bismuth Subsalicylate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with bismuth subsalicylate due to an increased risk of gastrointestinal toxicity and renal impairment, with little or no increase in efficacy.
Bismuth Subsalicylate; Metronidazole; Tetracycline: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with bismuth subsalicylate due to an increased risk of gastrointestinal toxicity and renal impairment, with little or no increase in efficacy.
Bisoprolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Bisoprolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Bivalirudin: (Moderate) An additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving anticoagulants in combination with other agents known to increase the risk of bleeding such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Monitor clinical and laboratory response closely during concurrent use.
Brimonidine; Timolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Budesonide: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Budesonide; Formoterol: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Budesonide; Glycopyrrolate; Formoterol: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Bumetanide: (Moderate) If a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and a diuretic are used concurrently, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of decreased renal function and diuretic efficacy. Patients taking diuretics and NSAIDs concurrently are at higher risk of developing renal insufficiency. NSAIDs may reduce the natriuretic effect of diuretics in some patients. NSAIDs have been associated with an inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which may result in reduced renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and increases in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain.
Bupivacaine; Meloxicam: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Busulfan: (Major) Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of busulfan, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors, including aspirin, ASA, strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Butabarbital: (Moderate) Caution is advised when administering diclofenac with inducers of CYP2C9, such as barbiturates. When used together, the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may decrease, potentially resulting in impaired efficacy. Higher diclofenac doses may be needed. In addition, phenobarbital toxicity has been reported to have occurred in a patient on chronic phenobarbital treatment after diclofenac initiation.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen: (Moderate) Caution is advised when administering diclofenac with inducers of CYP2C9, such as barbiturates. When used together, the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may decrease, potentially resulting in impaired efficacy. Higher diclofenac doses may be needed. In addition, phenobarbital toxicity has been reported to have occurred in a patient on chronic phenobarbital treatment after diclofenac initiation.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen; Caffeine: (Moderate) Caution is advised when administering diclofenac with inducers of CYP2C9, such as barbiturates. When used together, the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may decrease, potentially resulting in impaired efficacy. Higher diclofenac doses may be needed. In addition, phenobarbital toxicity has been reported to have occurred in a patient on chronic phenobarbital treatment after diclofenac initiation.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Codeine: (Moderate) Caution is advised when administering diclofenac with inducers of CYP2C9, such as barbiturates. When used together, the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may decrease, potentially resulting in impaired efficacy. Higher diclofenac doses may be needed. In addition, phenobarbital toxicity has been reported to have occurred in a patient on chronic phenobarbital treatment after diclofenac initiation.
Butalbital; Aspirin; Caffeine; Codeine: (Major) Concomitant use of analgesic doses of aspirin and diclofenac is generally not recommended due to the increased risk of bleeding and renal impairment. Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone. Diclofenac is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection. (Moderate) Caution is advised when administering diclofenac with inducers of CYP2C9, such as barbiturates. When used together, the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may decrease, potentially resulting in impaired efficacy. Higher diclofenac doses may be needed. In addition, phenobarbital toxicity has been reported to have occurred in a patient on chronic phenobarbital treatment after diclofenac initiation.
Calcium Carbonate; Risedronate: (Minor) Monitor for gastrointestinal adverse events during concurrent use of risedronate and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Both medications have been associated with gastrointestinal irritation although data suggest concomitant use introduces little additional risk for adverse effects for most patients.
Calcium Phosphate, Supersaturated: (Moderate) Concomitant use of medicines with potential to alter renal perfusion or function such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk of acute phosphate nephropathy in patients taking sodium phosphate monobasic monohydrate; sodium phosphate dibasic anhydrous.
Calcium-channel blockers: (Moderate) If nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and an antihypertensive drug are concurrently used, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of renal insufficiency and blood pressure control. Doses of antihypertensive medications may require adjustment in patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs. NSAIDs, to varying degrees, have been associated with an elevation in blood pressure. This effect is most significant in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive agents and long-term NSAID therapy. NSAIDs cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation, which may result in a reduction in renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and an increase in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain. Patients who rely upon renal prostaglandins to maintain renal perfusion may have acute renal blood flow reduction with NSAID usage. Elderly patients may be at increased risk of adverse effects from combined long-term NSAID therapy and antihypertensive agents, especially diuretics, due to age-related decreases in renal function and an increased risk of stroke and coronary artery disease.
Candesartan: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Candesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Cannabidiol: (Moderate) Consider a dose reduction of diclofenac as clinically appropriate, if adverse reactions occur when administered with cannabidiol. Increased diclofenac exposure is possible. Diclofenac is a CYP2C9 substrate. In vitro data predicts inhibition of CYP2C9 by cannabidiol potentially resulting in clinically significant interactions.
Capecitabine: (Moderate) The dose of diclofenac may need to be reduced if coadministration with capecitabine is necessary; monitor for an increase in diclofenac-related adverse reactions. Diclofenac is a CYP2C9 substrate and capecitabine is a weak CYP2C9 inhibitor.
Capreomycin: (Major) Because capreomycin is primarily eliminated by the kidney, coadministration with other potentially nephrotoxic drugs, including nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may increase serum concentrations of either drug. Theoretically, the chronic coadministration of these drugs may increase the risk of developing nephrotoxicity, even in patients who have normal renal function. Monitor patients for changes in renal function if these drugs are coadministered.
Captopril: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Captopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Carbamazepine: (Moderate) Monitor for decreased efficacy of diclofenac if coadministered with carbamazepine. A dosage increase of diclofenac may be needed. Systemic concentrations of diclofenac may decrease. Diclofenac is a CYP2C9 substrate and carbamazepine is a moderate CYP2C9 inducer.
Carmustine, BCNU: (Major) Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of carmustine, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors, including aspirin, ASA, strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding. These additive effects may not occur for at least 6 weeks after the administration of carmustine due to the delayed myelosuppressive effects of carmustine.
Carteolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Carvedilol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Cefotaxime: (Minor) Cefotaxime's product label states that cephalosporins may potentiate the adverse renal effects of nephrotoxic agents, such as aminoglycosides, nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and loop diuretics. Carefully monitor renal function, especially during prolonged therapy or use of high aminoglycoside doses. The majority of reported cases involve the combination of aminoglycosides and cephalothin or cephaloridine, which are associated with dose-related nephrotoxicity as singular agents. Limited but conflicting data with other cephalosporins have been noted.
Celecoxib: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of celecoxib with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Celecoxib; Tramadol: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of celecoxib with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Ceritinib: (Moderate) Monitor for an increase in diclofenac-related adverse reactions if coadministration with ceritinib is necessary; adjust the dose of diclofenac if needed. Diclofenac is a CYP2C9 substrate and ceritinib is a weak CYP2C9 inhibitor.
Chlorambucil: (Major) Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of chlorambucil, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors, including aspirin, ASA, strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Chlorpheniramine; Ibuprofen; Pseudoephedrine: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Chlorpropamide: (Moderate) NSAIDs may enhance hypoglycemia in diabetic patients via inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which indirectly increases insulin secretion. If NSAIDs are administered or discontinued in patients receiving oral antidiabetic agents, patients should be monitored for hypoglycemia or loss of blood glucose control. No clinically significant interaction between sulindac at daily doses of 400 mg and oral hypoglycemic agents has been observed. Sulindac, its sulfide metabolite, and sulfonylureas are highly bound to protein. Sulindac could displace the sulfonylureas, altering hypoglycemic activity. Careful patient monitoring is recommended to ensure that no change in their diabetes medicine dosage is required. A sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be needed, especially if sulindac doses greater than 400 mg daily are used or if the drug combination is used in patients with renal impairment or other metabolic defects that might increase sulindac blood concentrations.
Cholestyramine: (Moderate) Limited data suggest that cholestyramine can substantially reduce the bioavailability of diclofenac. In a randomized cross-over study, six healthy subjects took a single oral dose of diclofenac with water, cholestyramine (8 g), or colestipol (10 g). Diclofenac AUC was reduced by 62% or 33%, respectively, during coadministration with cholestyramine or colestipol. Although the clinical implications of this pharmacokinetic interaction are uncertain, clinicians should be alert to loss of antiinflammatory or analgesic effect with diclofenac. Staggering the administration times may prevent this interaction.
Choline Salicylate; Magnesium Salicylate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with choline salicylate due to an increased risk of gastrointestinal toxicity and renal impairment, with little or no increase in efficacy. (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with magnesium salicylate due to an increased risk of gastrointestinal toxicity and renal impairment, with little or no increase in efficacy.
Cholinesterase inhibitors: (Moderate) NSAIDs may cause additive pharmacodynamic GI effects with cholinesterase inhibitors, leading to gastrointestinal intolerance. Patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs should be monitored closely for symptoms of active or occult gastrointestinal bleeding. While NSAIDs appear to suppress microglial activity, which in turn may slow inflammatory neurodegenerative processes important for the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), there are no clinical data at this time to suggest that NSAIDs alone or as combined therapy with AD agents result in synergistic effects in AD.
Ciclesonide: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Cidofovir: (Contraindicated) The concomitant administration of cidofovir and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is contraindicated due to the potential for increased nephrotoxicity. NSAIDs should be discontinued 7 days prior to beginning cidofovir.
Cilostazol: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant platelet inhibitor and chronic nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of bleeding.
Citalopram: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use due to increased risk for bleeding. Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an association between use of psychotropic drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and the occurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Cladribine: (Major) Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of cladribine, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors, including aspirin, strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Clofarabine: (Major) Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of clofarabine, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Clopidogrel: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant platelet inhibitor and chronic nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of bleeding.
Cobicistat: (Moderate) Caution is warranted when cobicistat is administered with diclofenac as there is a potential for increased diclofenac concentrations. Diclofenac is a substrate of CYP3A4 and CYP2C9. Cobicistat is an inhibitor of CYP3A4.
Colestipol: (Moderate) Limited data suggest that colestipol can substantially reduce the bioavailability of diclofenac. In a randomized cross-over study, six healthy subjects took a single oral dose of diclofenac with water, cholestyramine (8 g), or colestipol (10 g). Diclofenac AUC was reduced by 62% or 33%, respectively, during coadministration with cholestyramine or colestipol. Although the clinical implications of this pharmacokinetic interaction are uncertain, clinicians should be alert to loss of antiinflammatory or analgesic effect with diclofenac. Staggering the administration times may prevent this interaction.
Colistimethate, Colistin, Polymyxin E: (Major) The administration of colistimethate sodium may increase the risk of developing nephrotoxicity, even in patients who have normal renal function. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk for nephrotoxicity when used concurrently. Monitor patients for changes in renal function if these drugs are coadministered. Since colistimethate sodium is eliminated by the kidney, coadministration with other potentially nephrotoxic drugs, including nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may theoretically increase serum concentrations of either drug.
Colistin: (Major) The administration of colistimethate sodium may increase the risk of developing nephrotoxicity, even in patients who have normal renal function. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk for nephrotoxicity when used concurrently. Monitor patients for changes in renal function if these drugs are coadministered. Since colistimethate sodium is eliminated by the kidney, coadministration with other potentially nephrotoxic drugs, including nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may theoretically increase serum concentrations of either drug.
Corticosteroids: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Cortisone: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Cyclosporine: (Major) Significant interactions may occur between systemic cyclosporine and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as diclofenac. Clinical status and serum creatinine and potassium concentrations should be closely monitored when cyclosporine is given with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Renal dysfunction associated with cyclosporine may be potentiated by concurrent usage of diclofenac, especially in a dehydrated patient. Although concomitant administration of diclofenac does not affect cyclosporine blood concentrations, a doubling of diclofenac blood concentrations and occasional reports of reversible decreases in renal function have been noted. Consequently, the dose of diclofenac should be in the lower end of the therapeutic range. The mechanism of the interaction may be inhibition of diclofenac metabolism, as diclofenac is a substrate for and cyclosporine an inhibitor of CYP3A4. NSAIDs may mask fever, pain, swelling and other signs and symptoms of an infection; use NSAIDs with caution in patients receiving immunosuppressants such as cyclosporine. Interactions with skin and eye products containing these drugs are not expected. Increased tear production was not seen in patients receiving ophthalmic NSAIDs or using punctual plugs concurrently with cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion.
Cytarabine, ARA-C: (Major) The main toxic effect of cytarabine, ARA-C is bone marrow suppression with leukopenia, thrombocytopenia and anemia. Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of cytarabine, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding. Dipyridamole can block membrane transport of cytarabine in tumor cells, therefore decreasing its antineoplastic activity.
Dabigatran: (Major) Educate patients about the signs of increased bleeding and the need to report these signs to a healthcare provider immediately if coadministration of dabigatran and a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) is necessary. Dabigatran can cause significant and, sometimes, fatal bleeding. This risk may be increased by concurrent use of chronic NSAID therapy.
Dabrafenib: (Moderate) The concomitant use of dabrafenib, a CYP29 inducer, and diclofenac, a CYP2C9 substrate, may result in decreased levels of diclofenac; avoid concomitant use if possible. If another agent cannot be substituted and coadministration of these agents is unavoidable, monitor patients closely for loss of diclofenac efficacy. In addition, an increased risk of bleeding may occur when NSAIDs are used with agents that cause clinically significant thrombocytopenia. Patients should be monitored closely for bleeding.
Dacarbazine, DTIC: (Major) Leukopenia and thrombocytopenia are common toxicities of dacarbazine, DTIC. Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of dacarbazine, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors, including aspirin, ASA, strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Dalteparin: (Moderate) An additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving anticoagulants in combination with other agents known to increase the risk of bleeding such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Monitor clinical and laboratory response closely during concurrent use.
Darunavir: (Moderate) Caution is warranted when darunavir is administered with diclofenac as there is a potential for elevated diclofenac concentrations. Diclofenac is a substrate of CYP3A4; darunavir is an inhibitor of CYP3A4.
Darunavir; Cobicistat: (Moderate) Caution is warranted when cobicistat is administered with diclofenac as there is a potential for increased diclofenac concentrations. Diclofenac is a substrate of CYP3A4 and CYP2C9. Cobicistat is an inhibitor of CYP3A4. (Moderate) Caution is warranted when darunavir is administered with diclofenac as there is a potential for elevated diclofenac concentrations. Diclofenac is a substrate of CYP3A4; darunavir is an inhibitor of CYP3A4.
Darunavir; Cobicistat; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir alafenamide: (Moderate) Caution is warranted when cobicistat is administered with diclofenac as there is a potential for increased diclofenac concentrations. Diclofenac is a substrate of CYP3A4 and CYP2C9. Cobicistat is an inhibitor of CYP3A4. (Moderate) Caution is warranted when darunavir is administered with diclofenac as there is a potential for elevated diclofenac concentrations. Diclofenac is a substrate of CYP3A4; darunavir is an inhibitor of CYP3A4. (Moderate) Monitor for nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) or emtricitabine-related adverse events during concomitant use. Concomitant use may increase NSAID or emtricitabine concentrations. Coadministration of drugs that reduce renal function or compete for active tubular secretion, such as NSAIDs and emtricitabine, may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Dasatinib: (Major) Due to the thrombocytopenic and possible platelet inhibiting effects of dasatinib, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors (including aspirin), strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding. Caution should be exercised if patients are required to take medications that inhibit platelet function or anticoagulants concomitantly with dasatinib.
Deferasirox: (Moderate) Because gastric ulceration and GI bleeding have been reported in patients taking deferasirox, use caution when coadministering with other drugs known to increase the risk of peptic ulcers or gastric hemorrhage including NSAIDs. In addition, coadministration of deferasirox with other potentially nephrotoxic drugs, including NSAIDs, may increase the acute renal failure. Monitor serum creatinine and/or creatinine clearance in patients who are receiving deferasirox and nephrotoxic drugs concomitantly.
Deferiprone: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of deferiprone and diclofenac. Deferiprone is a UDP glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 1A6 substrate, and diclofenac inhibits UGT1A6. The in vitro glucuronidation of deferiprone was reduced by 78% in the presence of another UGT1A6 inhibitor. Side effects, such as nausea, increased liver enzymes, or risk for neutropenia may be increased.
Deflazacort: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Delavirdine: (Moderate) If possible, avoid concurrent use of diclofenac with inhibitors of CYP2C9, such as delavirdine; if coadministration is required, do not exceed a total daily diclofenac dose of 100 mg. When used with a CYP2C9 inhibitor the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may increase, potentially resulting in adverse events.
Desirudin: (Moderate) An additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving anticoagulants in combination with other agents known to increase the risk of bleeding such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Monitor clinical and laboratory response closely during concurrent use.
Desmopressin: (Major) Additive hyponatremic effects may be seen in patients treated with desmopressin and drugs associated with hyponatremia including NSAIDs. Use combination with caution, and monitor patients for signs and symptoms of hyponatremia. A woman who took both desmopressin and ibuprofen was found in a comatose state. As her serum sodium concentration was 121 mmol/L, and her plasma osmolality was low in the presence of a high-normal urine osmolality and normal sodium excretion, she was treated with fluid restriction. Her serum sodium concentration was 124 mmol/L within a day and was 135 mmol/L by the second day. The woman had previously received desmopressin without the development of clinical symptoms of hyponatremia.
Desvenlafaxine: (Moderate) Platelet aggregation may be impaired by desvenlafaxine due to platelet serotonin depletion, possibly increasing the risk of a bleeding complication (e.g., gastrointestinal bleeding, ecchymoses, epistaxis, hematomas, petechiae, hemorrhage) in patients receiving nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of bleeding while taking desvenlafaxine with NSAIDs.
Dexamethasone: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Diflunisal: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diflunisal with any other NSAID, including COX-2 inhibitors, due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Digoxin: (Moderate) Monitor digoxin concentrations before and during concomitant use of diclofenac and reduce the digoxin dose if necessary. Elevated digoxin concentrations and prolonged digoxin half-life have been observed when diclofenac has been coadministered with digoxin.
Diphenhydramine; Ibuprofen: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Diphenhydramine; Naproxen: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID, including COX-2 inhibitors, due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Dipyridamole: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant platelet inhibitor and chronic nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of bleeding.
Docetaxel: (Major) Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of docetaxel, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors (including aspirin), strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Donepezil: (Moderate) NSAIDs may cause additive pharmacodynamic GI effects with cholinesterase inhibitors, leading to gastrointestinal intolerance. Patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs should be monitored closely for symptoms of active or occult gastrointestinal bleeding. While NSAIDs appear to suppress microglial activity, which in turn may slow inflammatory neurodegenerative processes important for the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), there are no clinical data at this time to suggest that NSAIDs alone or as combined therapy with AD agents result in synergistic effects in AD.
Donepezil; Memantine: (Moderate) NSAIDs may cause additive pharmacodynamic GI effects with cholinesterase inhibitors, leading to gastrointestinal intolerance. Patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs should be monitored closely for symptoms of active or occult gastrointestinal bleeding. While NSAIDs appear to suppress microglial activity, which in turn may slow inflammatory neurodegenerative processes important for the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), there are no clinical data at this time to suggest that NSAIDs alone or as combined therapy with AD agents result in synergistic effects in AD.
Doravirine; Lamivudine; Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate: (Moderate) Avoid administering tenofovir, PMPA concurrently with or recently after a nephrotoxic agent, such as high-dose or multiple nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Cases of acute renal failure, some requiring hospitalization and renal replacement therapy, have been reported after high-dose or multiple NSAIDs were initiated in patients who appeared stable on tenofovir. Consider alternatives to NSAIDs in patients at risk for renal dysfunction. If these drugs must be coadministered, carefully monitor the estimated creatinine creatinine, serum phosphorus, urine glucose, and urine protein prior to, and periodically during, treatment.
Dorzolamide; Timolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Doxazosin: (Moderate) If nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and an antihypertensive drug are concurrently used, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of renal insufficiency and blood pressure control. Doses of antihypertensive medications may require adjustment in patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs. NSAIDs, to varying degrees, have been associated with an elevation in blood pressure. This effect is most significant in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive agents and long-term NSAID therapy. NSAIDs cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation, which may result in a reduction in renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and an increase in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain. Patients who rely upon renal prostaglandins to maintain renal perfusion may have acute renal blood flow reduction with NSAID usage. Elderly patients may be at increased risk of adverse effects from combined long-term NSAID therapy and antihypertensive agents, especially diuretics, due to age-related decreases in renal function and an increased risk of stroke and coronary artery disease.
Dronedarone: (Moderate) Dronedarone is metabolized by and is an inhibitor of CYP3A. Diclofenac is a substrate for CYP3A4. The concomitant administration of dronedarone and CYP3A substrates may result in increased exposure of the substrate and should, therefore, be undertaken with caution.
Drospirenone: (Minor) Drospirenone has antimineralocorticoid effects; the progestin may increase serum potassium. Other drugs that may have additive effects on serum potassium with drospirenone include chronic treatment with NSAIDs, and monitoring of serum potassium in the 1st month of concurrent therapy is recommended.
Drospirenone; Estetrol: (Minor) Drospirenone has antimineralocorticoid effects; the progestin may increase serum potassium. Other drugs that may have additive effects on serum potassium with drospirenone include chronic treatment with NSAIDs, and monitoring of serum potassium in the 1st month of concurrent therapy is recommended.
Drospirenone; Estradiol: (Minor) Drospirenone has antimineralocorticoid effects; the progestin may increase serum potassium. Other drugs that may have additive effects on serum potassium with drospirenone include chronic treatment with NSAIDs, and monitoring of serum potassium in the 1st month of concurrent therapy is recommended.
Drospirenone; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Minor) Drospirenone has antimineralocorticoid effects; the progestin may increase serum potassium. Other drugs that may have additive effects on serum potassium with drospirenone include chronic treatment with NSAIDs, and monitoring of serum potassium in the 1st month of concurrent therapy is recommended.
Drospirenone; Ethinyl Estradiol; Levomefolate: (Minor) Drospirenone has antimineralocorticoid effects; the progestin may increase serum potassium. Other drugs that may have additive effects on serum potassium with drospirenone include chronic treatment with NSAIDs, and monitoring of serum potassium in the 1st month of concurrent therapy is recommended.
Duloxetine: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant duloxetine and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use due to increased risk for bleeding. Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an association between use of psychotropic drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and the occurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Edoxaban: (Major) An additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving anticoagulants in combination with other agents known to increase the risk of bleeding such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Monitor clinical and laboratory response closely during concurrent use.
Efavirenz: (Moderate) If possible, avoid concurrent use of diclofenac with inhibitors of CYP2C9, such as efavirenz; if coadministration is required, do not exceed a total daily diclofenac dose of 100 mg. When used with a CYP2C9 inhibitor the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may increase, potentially resulting in adverse events.
Efavirenz; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Avoid administering tenofovir, PMPA concurrently with or recently after a nephrotoxic agent, such as high-dose or multiple nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Cases of acute renal failure, some requiring hospitalization and renal replacement therapy, have been reported after high-dose or multiple NSAIDs were initiated in patients who appeared stable on tenofovir. Consider alternatives to NSAIDs in patients at risk for renal dysfunction. If these drugs must be coadministered, carefully monitor the estimated creatinine creatinine, serum phosphorus, urine glucose, and urine protein prior to, and periodically during, treatment. (Moderate) If possible, avoid concurrent use of diclofenac with inhibitors of CYP2C9, such as efavirenz; if coadministration is required, do not exceed a total daily diclofenac dose of 100 mg. When used with a CYP2C9 inhibitor the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may increase, potentially resulting in adverse events. (Moderate) Monitor for nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) or emtricitabine-related adverse events during concomitant use. Concomitant use may increase NSAID or emtricitabine concentrations. Coadministration of drugs that reduce renal function or compete for active tubular secretion, such as NSAIDs and emtricitabine, may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Efavirenz; Lamivudine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Avoid administering tenofovir, PMPA concurrently with or recently after a nephrotoxic agent, such as high-dose or multiple nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Cases of acute renal failure, some requiring hospitalization and renal replacement therapy, have been reported after high-dose or multiple NSAIDs were initiated in patients who appeared stable on tenofovir. Consider alternatives to NSAIDs in patients at risk for renal dysfunction. If these drugs must be coadministered, carefully monitor the estimated creatinine creatinine, serum phosphorus, urine glucose, and urine protein prior to, and periodically during, treatment. (Moderate) If possible, avoid concurrent use of diclofenac with inhibitors of CYP2C9, such as efavirenz; if coadministration is required, do not exceed a total daily diclofenac dose of 100 mg. When used with a CYP2C9 inhibitor the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may increase, potentially resulting in adverse events.
Elbasvir; Grazoprevir: (Moderate) Administering diclofenac with elbasvir; grazoprevir may result in elevated diclofenac plasma concentrations. Diclofenac is a substrate of CYP3A; grazoprevir is a weak CYP3A inhibitor. If these drugs are used together, closely monitor for signs of adverse events.
Elexacaftor; tezacaftor; ivacaftor: (Moderate) Increased monitoring is recommended if ivacaftor is administered concurrently with diclofenac. Ivacaftor is an inhibitor of CYP3A and a weak inhibitor of CYP2C9; diclofenac is metabolized by CYP3A and CYP2C9. Co-administration can theoretically increase diclofenac exposure leading to increased or prolonged therapeutic effects and adverse events. Do not exceed a total daily diclofenac dose of 100 mg.
Eltrombopag: (Moderate) Eltrombopag is a UDP-glucuronyltransferase inhibitor. NSAIDs are a substrate of UDP-glucuronyltransferases. The significance or effect of this interaction is not known; however, elevated concentrations of the NSAID are possible. Monitor patients for adverse reactions if eltrombopag is administered with an NSAID.
Elvitegravir; Cobicistat; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Alafenamide: (Moderate) Caution is warranted when cobicistat is administered with diclofenac as there is a potential for increased diclofenac concentrations. Diclofenac is a substrate of CYP3A4 and CYP2C9. Cobicistat is an inhibitor of CYP3A4. (Moderate) Caution is warranted when elvitegravir is administered with diclofenac as there is a potential for decreased diclofenac concentrations. Diclofenac is a substrate of CYP2C9; elvitegravir is a CYP2C9 inducer. (Moderate) Monitor for nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) or emtricitabine-related adverse events during concomitant use. Concomitant use may increase NSAID or emtricitabine concentrations. Coadministration of drugs that reduce renal function or compete for active tubular secretion, such as NSAIDs and emtricitabine, may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Elvitegravir; Cobicistat; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Avoid administering tenofovir, PMPA concurrently with or recently after a nephrotoxic agent, such as high-dose or multiple nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Cases of acute renal failure, some requiring hospitalization and renal replacement therapy, have been reported after high-dose or multiple NSAIDs were initiated in patients who appeared stable on tenofovir. Consider alternatives to NSAIDs in patients at risk for renal dysfunction. If these drugs must be coadministered, carefully monitor the estimated creatinine creatinine, serum phosphorus, urine glucose, and urine protein prior to, and periodically during, treatment. (Moderate) Caution is warranted when cobicistat is administered with diclofenac as there is a potential for increased diclofenac concentrations. Diclofenac is a substrate of CYP3A4 and CYP2C9. Cobicistat is an inhibitor of CYP3A4. (Moderate) Caution is warranted when elvitegravir is administered with diclofenac as there is a potential for decreased diclofenac concentrations. Diclofenac is a substrate of CYP2C9; elvitegravir is a CYP2C9 inducer. (Moderate) Monitor for nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) or emtricitabine-related adverse events during concomitant use. Concomitant use may increase NSAID or emtricitabine concentrations. Coadministration of drugs that reduce renal function or compete for active tubular secretion, such as NSAIDs and emtricitabine, may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Emtricitabine: (Moderate) Monitor for nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) or emtricitabine-related adverse events during concomitant use. Concomitant use may increase NSAID or emtricitabine concentrations. Coadministration of drugs that reduce renal function or compete for active tubular secretion, such as NSAIDs and emtricitabine, may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Emtricitabine; Rilpivirine; Tenofovir alafenamide: (Moderate) Monitor for nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) or emtricitabine-related adverse events during concomitant use. Concomitant use may increase NSAID or emtricitabine concentrations. Coadministration of drugs that reduce renal function or compete for active tubular secretion, such as NSAIDs and emtricitabine, may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Emtricitabine; Rilpivirine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Avoid administering tenofovir, PMPA concurrently with or recently after a nephrotoxic agent, such as high-dose or multiple nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Cases of acute renal failure, some requiring hospitalization and renal replacement therapy, have been reported after high-dose or multiple NSAIDs were initiated in patients who appeared stable on tenofovir. Consider alternatives to NSAIDs in patients at risk for renal dysfunction. If these drugs must be coadministered, carefully monitor the estimated creatinine creatinine, serum phosphorus, urine glucose, and urine protein prior to, and periodically during, treatment. (Moderate) Monitor for nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) or emtricitabine-related adverse events during concomitant use. Concomitant use may increase NSAID or emtricitabine concentrations. Coadministration of drugs that reduce renal function or compete for active tubular secretion, such as NSAIDs and emtricitabine, may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Emtricitabine; Tenofovir alafenamide: (Moderate) Monitor for nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) or emtricitabine-related adverse events during concomitant use. Concomitant use may increase NSAID or emtricitabine concentrations. Coadministration of drugs that reduce renal function or compete for active tubular secretion, such as NSAIDs and emtricitabine, may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Avoid administering tenofovir, PMPA concurrently with or recently after a nephrotoxic agent, such as high-dose or multiple nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Cases of acute renal failure, some requiring hospitalization and renal replacement therapy, have been reported after high-dose or multiple NSAIDs were initiated in patients who appeared stable on tenofovir. Consider alternatives to NSAIDs in patients at risk for renal dysfunction. If these drugs must be coadministered, carefully monitor the estimated creatinine creatinine, serum phosphorus, urine glucose, and urine protein prior to, and periodically during, treatment. (Moderate) Monitor for nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) or emtricitabine-related adverse events during concomitant use. Concomitant use may increase NSAID or emtricitabine concentrations. Coadministration of drugs that reduce renal function or compete for active tubular secretion, such as NSAIDs and emtricitabine, may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Enalapril, Enalaprilat: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Enalapril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Enoxaparin: (Major) Whenever possible, discontinue agents which may enhance the risk of hemorrhage, including nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs, before initiation of enoxaparin therapy. If coadministration is essential, conduct close clinical and laboratory monitoring.
Entecavir: (Moderate) The manufacturer of entecavir recommends monitoring for adverse effects when coadministered with NSAIDs. Entecavir is primarily eliminated by the kidneys; NSAIDs can affect renal function. Concurrent administration may increase the serum concentrations of entecavir and adverse events.
Eplerenone: (Major) Monitor serum potassium and serum creatinine concentrations within 3 to 7 days of initiating coadministration of eplerenone and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and monitor blood pressure. The concomitant use of other potassium-sparing antihypertensives with NSAIDs has been shown to reduce the antihypertensive effect in some patients and result in severe hyperkalemia in patients with impaired renal function. Patients who develop hyperkalemia may continue eplerenone with proper dose adjustment; eplerenone dose reduction decreases potassium concentrations.
Epoprostenol: (Moderate) NSAIDs may decrease the effect of antihypertensive agents through various mechanisms, including renal and peripheral vasoactive pathways.
Eprosartan: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Eprosartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Eptifibatide: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant platelet inhibitor and chronic nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of bleeding.
Erlotinib: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Escitalopram: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use due to increased risk for bleeding. Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an association between use of psychotropic drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and the occurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Esmolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Estramustine: (Minor) An increased risk of bleeding may occur when NSAIDs, such as diclofenac, are used with agents that cause clinically significant thrombocytopenia, such as myelosuppressive antineoplastic agents. Monitor closely for bleeding.
Ethacrynic Acid: (Moderate) If a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and a diuretic are used concurrently, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of decreased renal function and diuretic efficacy. Patients taking diuretics and NSAIDs concurrently are at higher risk of developing renal insufficiency. NSAIDs may reduce the natriuretic effect of diuretics in some patients. NSAIDs have been associated with an inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which may result in reduced renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and increases in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain.
Ethanol: (Major) Advise patients to avoid alcohol and alcohol-containing products while taking NSAIDs. Concomitant ingestion of alcohol with NSAIDs increases the risk of developing gastric irritation and GI mucosal bleeding. Alcohol is a mucosal irritant and NSAIDs decrease platelet aggregation. Routine ingestion of alcohol and NSAIDs can cause significant GI bleeding, which may or may not be overt. Even occasional concomitant use of NSAIDs and alcohol should be avoided. Chronic alcohol ingestion is often associated with hypoprothrombinemia and this condition increases the risk of bleeding.
Ethiodized Oil: (Moderate) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk for nephrotoxicity when given to patients receiving a contrast agents. When possible, withhold NSAID therapy during administration of a contrast agent.
Etidronate: (Minor) Monitor for gastrointestinal adverse events during concurrent use of etidronate and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Both medications have been associated with gastrointestinal irritation although data suggest concomitant use introduces little additional risk for adverse effects for most patients.
Etodolac: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Etravirine: (Moderate) If possible, avoid concurrent use of diclofenac with inhibitors of CYP2C9, such as etravirine; if coadministration is required, do not exceed a total daily diclofenac dose of 100 mg. When used with a CYP2C9 inhibitor the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may increase, potentially resulting in adverse events.
Fenofibric Acid: (Minor) At therapeutic concentrations, fenofibric acid is a mild-to-moderate inhibitor of CYP2C9. Concomitant use of fenofibric acid with CYP2C9 substrates, such as diclofenac, has not been formally studied. Fenofibric acid may theoretically increase plasma concentrations of CYP2C9 substrates and could lead to toxicity for drugs that have a narrow therapeutic range. Monitor the therapeutic effect of diclofenac during coadministration with fenofibric acid.
Fenoprofen: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Flavocoxid, Flavocoxid; Citrated Zinc Bisglycinate: (Major) Flavocoxid exerts similar pharmacologic characteristics to other systemic NSAIDs. Additive pharmacodynamic effects, including a potential for additive adverse cardiac and GI effects, may be seen if flavocoxid is used with NSAIDs. In general, the concurrent use of flavocoxid and NSAIDs should be avoided.
Floxuridine: (Major) Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of floxuridine, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors, including aspirin, strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Fluconazole: (Moderate) Monitor for diclofenac toxicity if coadministered with fluconazole; a diclofenac dosage adjustment may be necessary. Concurrent use may increase diclofenac exposure. Diclofenac is a CYP2C9 substrate and fluconazole is a CYP2C9 inhibitor.
Fludrocortisone: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Flunisolide: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Fluorouracil, 5-FU: (Major) Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of fluorouracil, 5-FU, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors, including aspirin, strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Fluoxetine: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use due to increased risk for bleeding. Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an association between use of psychotropic drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and the occurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Flurbiprofen: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Fluticasone: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Fluticasone; Salmeterol: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Fluticasone; Umeclidinium; Vilanterol: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Fluticasone; Vilanterol: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Fluvastatin: (Moderate) If possible, avoid concurrent use of diclofenac with inhibitors of CYP2C9, such as fluvastatin; if coadministration is required, do not exceed a total daily diclofenac dose of 100 mg. When used with a CYP2C9 inhibitor the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may increase, potentially resulting in adverse events. In addition, exposure to fluvastatin may also be increased during concurrent use.
Fluvoxamine: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use due to increased risk for bleeding. Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an association between use of psychotropic drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and the occurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Fondaparinux: (Moderate) An additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving anticoagulants in combination with other agents known to increase the risk of bleeding such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Monitor clinical and laboratory response closely during concurrent use.
Formoterol; Mometasone: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Foscarnet: (Minor) The risk of renal toxicity may be increased if foscarnet is used in conjuction with other nephrotoxic agents, such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Monitor renal function carefully during concurrent therapy.
Fosinopril: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Fosinopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Furosemide: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure as well as for signs of worsening renal function and loss of diuretic efficacy, including antihypertensive effects, during concomitant furosemide and diclofenac use. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may cause a dose-dependent reduction in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal decompensation, and concomitant diuretic use increases the risk of this reaction. NSAIDs have been shown to reduce the natriuretic effect of [loop/thiazide diuretics] and are associated with fluid retention which may blunt the cardiovascular effects of diuretics.
Galantamine: (Moderate) NSAIDs may cause additive pharmacodynamic GI effects with cholinesterase inhibitors, leading to gastrointestinal intolerance. Patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs should be monitored closely for symptoms of active or occult gastrointestinal bleeding. While NSAIDs appear to suppress microglial activity, which in turn may slow inflammatory neurodegenerative processes important for the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), there are no clinical data at this time to suggest that NSAIDs alone or as combined therapy with AD agents result in synergistic effects in AD.
Ganciclovir: (Minor) Concurrent use of nephrotoxic agents, such as NSAIDs, with ganciclovir should be done cautiously to avoid additive nephrotoxicity. Monitor renal function carefully if concomitant therapy is required.
Garlic, Allium sativum: (Minor) Garlic, Allium sativum may produce clinically-significant antiplatelet effects; until more data are available, garlic should be used cautiously in patients receiving drugs with a known potential risk for bleeding such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Gemfibrozil: (Moderate) If possible, avoid concurrent use of diclofenac with inhibitors of CYP2C9, such as gemfibrozil; if coadministration is required, do not exceed a total daily diclofenac dose of 100 mg. When used with a CYP2C9 inhibitor the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may increase, potentially resulting in adverse events.
Gentamicin: (Moderate) It is possible that additive nephrotoxicity may occur in patients who receive nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) concurrently with other nephrotoxic agents, such as gentamicin.
Ginger, Zingiber officinale: (Minor) Patients receiving regular therapy with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should use ginger with caution, due to a theoretical risk of bleeding resulting from additive pharmacology related to the COX enzymes. However, clinical documentation of interactions is lacking. Several pungent constituents of ginger (Zingiber officinale) are reported to inhibit arachidonic acid (AA) induced platelet activation in human whole blood. The constituent (8)-paradol is the most potent inhibitor of COX-1 and exhibits the greatest anti-platelet activity versus other gingerol analogues. The mechanism of ginger-associated platelet inhibition may be related to decreased COX-1/Thomboxane synthase enzymatic activity.
Ginkgo, Ginkgo biloba: (Moderate) Monitor for signs or symptoms of bleeding with coadministration of ginkgo biloba and NSAIDs as an increased bleeding risk may occur. Although data are mixed, ginkgo biloba is reported to inhibit platelet aggregation and several case reports describe bleeding complications with ginkgo biloba, with or without concomitant drug therapy.
Glimepiride: (Moderate) NSAIDs may enhance hypoglycemia in diabetic patients via inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which indirectly increases insulin secretion. If NSAIDs are administered or discontinued in patients receiving oral antidiabetic agents, patients should be monitored for hypoglycemia or loss of blood glucose control. No clinically significant interaction between sulindac at daily doses of 400 mg and oral hypoglycemic agents has been observed. Sulindac, its sulfide metabolite, and sulfonylureas are highly bound to protein. Sulindac could displace the sulfonylureas, altering hypoglycemic activity. Careful patient monitoring is recommended to ensure that no change in their diabetes medicine dosage is required. A sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be needed, especially if sulindac doses greater than 400 mg daily are used or if the drug combination is used in patients with renal impairment or other metabolic defects that might increase sulindac blood concentrations.
Glimepiride; Rosiglitazone: (Moderate) NSAIDs may enhance hypoglycemia in diabetic patients via inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which indirectly increases insulin secretion. If NSAIDs are administered or discontinued in patients receiving oral antidiabetic agents, patients should be monitored for hypoglycemia or loss of blood glucose control. No clinically significant interaction between sulindac at daily doses of 400 mg and oral hypoglycemic agents has been observed. Sulindac, its sulfide metabolite, and sulfonylureas are highly bound to protein. Sulindac could displace the sulfonylureas, altering hypoglycemic activity. Careful patient monitoring is recommended to ensure that no change in their diabetes medicine dosage is required. A sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be needed, especially if sulindac doses greater than 400 mg daily are used or if the drug combination is used in patients with renal impairment or other metabolic defects that might increase sulindac blood concentrations.
Glipizide: (Moderate) NSAIDs may enhance hypoglycemia in diabetic patients via inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which indirectly increases insulin secretion. If NSAIDs are administered or discontinued in patients receiving oral antidiabetic agents, patients should be monitored for hypoglycemia or loss of blood glucose control. No clinically significant interaction between sulindac at daily doses of 400 mg and oral hypoglycemic agents has been observed. Sulindac, its sulfide metabolite, and sulfonylureas are highly bound to protein. Sulindac could displace the sulfonylureas, altering hypoglycemic activity. Careful patient monitoring is recommended to ensure that no change in their diabetes medicine dosage is required. A sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be needed, especially if sulindac doses greater than 400 mg daily are used or if the drug combination is used in patients with renal impairment or other metabolic defects that might increase sulindac blood concentrations.
Glipizide; Metformin: (Moderate) NSAIDs may enhance hypoglycemia in diabetic patients via inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which indirectly increases insulin secretion. If NSAIDs are administered or discontinued in patients receiving oral antidiabetic agents, patients should be monitored for hypoglycemia or loss of blood glucose control. No clinically significant interaction between sulindac at daily doses of 400 mg and oral hypoglycemic agents has been observed. Sulindac, its sulfide metabolite, and sulfonylureas are highly bound to protein. Sulindac could displace the sulfonylureas, altering hypoglycemic activity. Careful patient monitoring is recommended to ensure that no change in their diabetes medicine dosage is required. A sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be needed, especially if sulindac doses greater than 400 mg daily are used or if the drug combination is used in patients with renal impairment or other metabolic defects that might increase sulindac blood concentrations.
Glyburide: (Moderate) NSAIDs may enhance hypoglycemia in diabetic patients via inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which indirectly increases insulin secretion. If NSAIDs are administered or discontinued in patients receiving oral antidiabetic agents, patients should be monitored for hypoglycemia or loss of blood glucose control. No clinically significant interaction between sulindac at daily doses of 400 mg and oral hypoglycemic agents has been observed. Sulindac, its sulfide metabolite, and sulfonylureas are highly bound to protein. Sulindac could displace the sulfonylureas, altering hypoglycemic activity. Careful patient monitoring is recommended to ensure that no change in their diabetes medicine dosage is required. A sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be needed, especially if sulindac doses greater than 400 mg daily are used or if the drug combination is used in patients with renal impairment or other metabolic defects that might increase sulindac blood concentrations.
Glyburide; Metformin: (Moderate) NSAIDs may enhance hypoglycemia in diabetic patients via inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which indirectly increases insulin secretion. If NSAIDs are administered or discontinued in patients receiving oral antidiabetic agents, patients should be monitored for hypoglycemia or loss of blood glucose control. No clinically significant interaction between sulindac at daily doses of 400 mg and oral hypoglycemic agents has been observed. Sulindac, its sulfide metabolite, and sulfonylureas are highly bound to protein. Sulindac could displace the sulfonylureas, altering hypoglycemic activity. Careful patient monitoring is recommended to ensure that no change in their diabetes medicine dosage is required. A sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be needed, especially if sulindac doses greater than 400 mg daily are used or if the drug combination is used in patients with renal impairment or other metabolic defects that might increase sulindac blood concentrations.
Gold: (Moderate) Due to the inhibition of renal prostaglandins by NSAIDs, concurrent use with other nephrotoxic agents, such as gold compounds, may lead to additive nephrotoxicity. Monitor renal function carefully during concurrent therapy.
Guanfacine: (Moderate) NSAIDs may decrease the effect of antihypertensive agents through various mechanisms, including renal and peripheral vasoactive pathways.
Heparin: (Moderate) An additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving anticoagulants in combination with other agents known to increase the risk of bleeding such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Monitor clinical and laboratory response closely during concurrent use.
Hyaluronidase, Recombinant; Immune Globulin: (Moderate) Immune Globulin (IG) products have been reported to be associated with renal dysfunction, acute renal failure, osmotic nephrosis, and death. Patients predisposed to acute renal failure include patients receiving known nephrotoxic drugs like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and salicylates. Coadminister IG products at the minimum concentration available and the minimum rate of infusion practicable. Also, closely monitor renal function.
Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Methyldopa: (Moderate) If nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and an antihypertensive drug are concurrently used, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of renal insufficiency and blood pressure control. Doses of antihypertensive medications may require adjustment in patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs. NSAIDs, to varying degrees, have been associated with an elevation in blood pressure. This effect is most significant in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive agents and long-term NSAID therapy. NSAIDs cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation, which may result in a reduction in renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and an increase in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain. Patients who rely upon renal prostaglandins to maintain renal perfusion may have acute renal blood flow reduction with NSAID usage. Elderly patients may be at increased risk of adverse effects from combined long-term NSAID therapy and antihypertensive agents, especially diuretics, due to age-related decreases in renal function and an increased risk of stroke and coronary artery disease.
Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ; Moexipril: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Hydrocodone; Ibuprofen: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Hydrocortisone: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Hyoscyamine; Methenamine; Methylene Blue; Phenyl Salicylate; Sodium Biphosphate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with phenyl salicylate due to an increased risk of gastrointestinal toxicity and renal impairment, with little or no increase in efficacy.
Ibandronate: (Moderate) Monitor renal function and for gastrointestinal adverse events during concurrent use of intravenous or oral ibandronate, respectively, and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Acute renal failure has been observed with intravenous ibandronate and concomitant use of other nephrotoxic agents may increase this risk. Additionally, the oral formulations of both medications have been associated with gastrointestinal irritation although data suggest concomitant use introduces little additional risk for adverse effects for most patients.
Ibritumomab Tiuxetan: (Major) During and after therapy, avoid the concomitant use of Yttrium (Y)-90 ibrutumomab tiuxetan with drugs that interfere with platelet function such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); the risk of bleeding may be increased. If coadministration with NSAIDs is necessary, monitor platelet counts more frequently for evidence of thrombocytopenia.
Ibuprofen lysine: (Major) Because ibuprofen lysine exerts similar pharmacologic characteristics to other systemic NSAIDs, including COX-2 inhibitors, additive pharmacodynamic effects, including a potential increase for additive adverse GI effects, may be seen if ibuprofen lysine is used with other NSAIDs. In general, concurrent use of ibuprofen lysine and another NSAID should be avoided.
Ibuprofen: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Ibuprofen; Famotidine: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Ibuprofen; Oxycodone: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Ibuprofen; Pseudoephedrine: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Idelalisib: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of idelalisib, a strong CYP3A inhibitor, with diclofenac, a CYP3A substrate, as diclofenac toxicities may be significantly increased. The AUC of a sensitive CYP3A substrate was increased 5.4-fold when coadministered with idelalisib.
Iloprost: (Moderate) If nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and an antihypertensive drug are concurrently used, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of renal insufficiency and blood pressure control. Doses of antihypertensive medications may require adjustment in patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs. NSAIDs, to varying degrees, have been associated with an elevation in blood pressure. This effect is most significant in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive agents and long-term NSAID therapy. NSAIDs cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation, which may result in a reduction in renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and an increase in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain. Patients who rely upon renal prostaglandins to maintain renal perfusion may have acute renal blood flow reduction with NSAID usage. Elderly patients may be at increased risk of adverse effects from combined long-term NSAID therapy and antihypertensive agents, especially diuretics, due to age-related decreases in renal function and an increased risk of stroke and coronary artery disease.
Immune Globulin IV, IVIG, IGIV: (Moderate) Immune Globulin (IG) products have been reported to be associated with renal dysfunction, acute renal failure, osmotic nephrosis, and death. Patients predisposed to acute renal failure include patients receiving known nephrotoxic drugs like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and salicylates. Coadminister IG products at the minimum concentration available and the minimum rate of infusion practicable. Also, closely monitor renal function.
Indapamide: (Moderate) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may reduce the natriuretic effect of diuretics in some patients. NSAIDS have been associated with an inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which may result in reduced renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and increases in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain. Patients taking diuretics and NSAIDS concurrently are at higher risk of developing renal insufficiency. If an NSAID and a diuretic are used concurrently, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of decreased renal function and diuretic efficacy.
Indomethacin: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Inotersen: (Moderate) Use caution with concomitant use of inotersen and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) due to the risk of glomerulonephritis and nephrotoxicity as well as the potential risk of bleeding from thrombocytopenia. Consider discontinuation of NSAIDs in a patient taking inotersen with a platelet count of less than 50,000 per microliter.
Iodipamide Meglumine: (Moderate) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk for nephrotoxicity when given to patients receiving a contrast agents. When possible, withhold NSAID therapy during administration of a contrast agent.
Iodixanol: (Moderate) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk for nephrotoxicity when given to patients receiving a contrast agents. When possible, withhold NSAID therapy during administration of a contrast agent.
Iohexol: (Moderate) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk for nephrotoxicity when given to patients receiving a contrast agents. When possible, withhold NSAID therapy during administration of a contrast agent.
Iomeprol: (Moderate) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk for nephrotoxicity when given to patients receiving a contrast agents. When possible, withhold NSAID therapy during administration of a contrast agent.
Ionic Contrast Media: (Moderate) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk for nephrotoxicity when given to patients receiving a contrast agents. When possible, withhold NSAID therapy during administration of a contrast agent.
Iopamidol: (Moderate) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk for nephrotoxicity when given to patients receiving a contrast agents. When possible, withhold NSAID therapy during administration of a contrast agent.
Iopromide: (Moderate) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk for nephrotoxicity when given to patients receiving a contrast agents. When possible, withhold NSAID therapy during administration of a contrast agent.
Ioversol: (Moderate) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk for nephrotoxicity when given to patients receiving a contrast agents. When possible, withhold NSAID therapy during administration of a contrast agent.
Ioxaglate Meglumine; Ioxaglate Sodium: (Moderate) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk for nephrotoxicity when given to patients receiving a contrast agents. When possible, withhold NSAID therapy during administration of a contrast agent.
Irbesartan: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Irbesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Isavuconazonium: (Moderate) Concomitant use of isavuconazonium with diclofenac may result in increased serum concentrations of diclofenac. Diclofenac is a substrate of the hepatic isoenzyme CYP3A4; isavuconazole, the active moiety of isavuconazonium, is a moderate inhibitor of this enzyme. Caution and close monitoring are advised if these drugs are used together.
Isosulfan Blue: (Moderate) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk for nephrotoxicity when given to patients receiving a contrast agents. When possible, withhold NSAID therapy during administration of a contrast agent.
Ivacaftor: (Moderate) Increased monitoring is recommended if ivacaftor is administered concurrently with diclofenac. Ivacaftor is an inhibitor of CYP3A and a weak inhibitor of CYP2C9; diclofenac is metabolized by CYP3A and CYP2C9. Co-administration can theoretically increase diclofenac exposure leading to increased or prolonged therapeutic effects and adverse events. Do not exceed a total daily diclofenac dose of 100 mg.
Ketoprofen: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Ketorolac: (Contraindicated) Concomitant use of ketorolac with another NSAID is contraindicated. Increased adverse gastrointestinal effects are possible if ketorolac is used with other systemic nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Labetalol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Lamivudine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Avoid administering tenofovir, PMPA concurrently with or recently after a nephrotoxic agent, such as high-dose or multiple nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Cases of acute renal failure, some requiring hospitalization and renal replacement therapy, have been reported after high-dose or multiple NSAIDs were initiated in patients who appeared stable on tenofovir. Consider alternatives to NSAIDs in patients at risk for renal dysfunction. If these drugs must be coadministered, carefully monitor the estimated creatinine creatinine, serum phosphorus, urine glucose, and urine protein prior to, and periodically during, treatment.
Lansoprazole; Naproxen: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID, including COX-2 inhibitors, due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Leflunomide: (Moderate) In vitro studies indicate that the M1 metabolite of leflunomide inhibits cytochrome P450 2C9, the enzyme responsible for the metabolism of many NSAIDs. Leflunomide altered protein binding and thus, increased the free fraction of ibuprofen by 13% to 50%. The clinical significance of the interactions with NSAIDs is unknown. There was extensive concomitant use of NSAIDs in phase III clinical studies of leflunomide in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, and no clinical differential effects were observed. However, because some NSAIDs have been reported to cause hepatotoxic effects, some caution may be warranted in their use with leflunomide.
Levobetaxolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Levobunolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Levomilnacipran: (Moderate) Platelet aggregation may be impaired by SNRIs such as levomilnacipran due to platelet serotonin depletion, possibly increasing the risk of a bleeding complication (e.g., gastrointestinal bleeding, ecchymoses, epistaxis, hematomas, petechiae, hemorrhage) in patients receiving nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding in patients taking levomilnacipran and NSAIDs.
Lisinopril: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Lisinopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Lithium: (Moderate) Monitor serum lithium concentrations during concomitant nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) use; reduce the lithium dose based on serum lithium concentrations and clinical response. NSAIDs decrease renal blood flow, resulting in decreased renal clearance and increased serum lithium concentrations.
Lomustine, CCNU: (Major) Due to the bone marrow suppressive and thrombocytopenic effects of lomustine, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors, including aspirin, ASA, strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Lopinavir; Ritonavir: (Moderate) Concurrent administration of diclofenac with ritonavir may result in elevated diclofenac plasma concentrations. Diclofenac is metabolized by the hepatic isoenzyme CYP3A4; ritonavir is an inhibitor of this enzyme. Caution and close monitoring for adverse effects are advised if these drugs are administered together.
Losartan: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Losartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Lumacaftor; Ivacaftor: (Minor) Concomitant use of diclofenac and lumacaftor; ivacaftor may alter diclofenac exposure; monitor for diclofenac efficacy and adverse events. Diclofenac metabolism is primarily mediated by CYP2C9, with CYP3A4 and possibly CYP2C8 playing a lesser role. Lumacaftor is a strong CYP3A inducer; in vitro data also suggest that lumacaftor; ivacaftor may induce and/or inhibit CYP2C9 and CYP2C8. Although induction of diclofenac's metabolism through the CYP3A pathway may lead to decreased drug efficacy, the net effect of lumacaftor; ivacaftor on CYP2C9- and CYP2C8-mediated metabolism is not clear.
Lumacaftor; Ivacaftor: (Moderate) Increased monitoring is recommended if ivacaftor is administered concurrently with diclofenac. Ivacaftor is an inhibitor of CYP3A and a weak inhibitor of CYP2C9; diclofenac is metabolized by CYP3A and CYP2C9. Co-administration can theoretically increase diclofenac exposure leading to increased or prolonged therapeutic effects and adverse events. Do not exceed a total daily diclofenac dose of 100 mg.
Macimorelin: (Major) Avoid use of macimorelin with drugs that directly affect pituitary growth hormone secretion, such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Healthcare providers are advised to discontinue NSAID therapy and observe a sufficient washout period before administering macimorelin. Use of these medications together may impact the accuracy of the macimorelin growth hormone test.
Magnesium Salicylate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with magnesium salicylate due to an increased risk of gastrointestinal toxicity and renal impairment, with little or no increase in efficacy.
Magnesium Sulfate; Potassium Sulfate; Sodium Sulfate: (Moderate) Use caution when prescribing sulfate salt bowel preparation in patients taking concomitant medications that may affect renal function such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Mannitol: (Major) Avoid use of mannitol and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), if possible. If use together is necessary, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of decreased renal function and diuretic efficacy. Concomitant administration of nephrotoxic drugs, such as NSAIDs, increases the risk of renal failure after administration of mannitol. NSAIDs may reduce the natriuretic effect of diuretics in some patients. NSAIDS have been associated with an inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which may result in reduced renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and increases in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain.
Mecamylamine: (Moderate) If nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and an antihypertensive drug are concurrently used, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of renal insufficiency and blood pressure control. Doses of antihypertensive medications may require adjustment in patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs. NSAIDs, to varying degrees, have been associated with an elevation in blood pressure. This effect is most significant in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive agents and long-term NSAID therapy. NSAIDs cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation, which may result in a reduction in renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and an increase in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain. Patients who rely upon renal prostaglandins to maintain renal perfusion may have acute renal blood flow reduction with NSAID usage. Elderly patients may be at increased risk of adverse effects from combined long-term NSAID therapy and antihypertensive agents, especially diuretics, due to age-related decreases in renal function and an increased risk of stroke and coronary artery disease.
Mechlorethamine, Nitrogen Mustard: (Major) Mechlorethamine, nitrogen mustard is highly toxic and is associated with lymphocytopenia, granulocytopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of mechlorethamine, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors, including aspirin, ASA, strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Meclofenamate Sodium: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Mefenamic Acid: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Meloxicam: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Mesalamine, 5-ASA: (Minor) The concurrent use of mesalamine with known nephrotoxic agents such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk of nephrotoxicity.
Methenamine; Sodium Salicylate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with sodium salicylate due to an increased risk of gastrointestinal toxicity and renal impairment, with little or no increase in efficacy.
Methohexital: (Moderate) Caution is advised when administering diclofenac with inducers of CYP2C9, such as barbiturates. When used together, the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may decrease, potentially resulting in impaired efficacy. Higher diclofenac doses may be needed. In addition, phenobarbital toxicity has been reported to have occurred in a patient on chronic phenobarbital treatment after diclofenac initiation.
Methotrexate: (Major) Do not administer nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) before or concomitantly with high doses of methotrexate, such as used in the treatment of osteosarcoma. Concomitant administration of some NSAIDs with high dose methotrexate therapy has been reported to elevate and prolong serum methotrexate concentrations, resulting in deaths from severe hematologic and gastrointestinal toxicity. Use caution when NSAIDs are administered concomitantly with lower doses of methotrexate as they have been reported to reduce the tubular secretion of methotrexate in an animal model and may enhance its toxicity. Despite potential interactions, patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are often receiving concurrent treatment with NSAIDs without apparent problems. However, these doses are lower than those used in psoriasis or malignancy; higher methotrexate doses may lead to unexpected toxicity in combination with NSAIDs. NSAIDs may be continued in patients with RA receiving treatment with methotrexate, although the possibility of increased toxicity has not been fully explored.
Methoxsalen: (Minor) Preclinical data suggest agents that inhibit prostaglandin synthesis such as diclofenac could decrease the efficacy of photosensitizing agents used in photodynamic therapy. Avoidance of diclofenac before and during photodynamic therapy may be advisable.
Methyldopa: (Moderate) If nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and an antihypertensive drug are concurrently used, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of renal insufficiency and blood pressure control. Doses of antihypertensive medications may require adjustment in patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs. NSAIDs, to varying degrees, have been associated with an elevation in blood pressure. This effect is most significant in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive agents and long-term NSAID therapy. NSAIDs cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation, which may result in a reduction in renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and an increase in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain. Patients who rely upon renal prostaglandins to maintain renal perfusion may have acute renal blood flow reduction with NSAID usage. Elderly patients may be at increased risk of adverse effects from combined long-term NSAID therapy and antihypertensive agents, especially diuretics, due to age-related decreases in renal function and an increased risk of stroke and coronary artery disease.
Methylprednisolone: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Methylsulfonylmethane, MSM: (Moderate) Patients taking methylsulfonylmethane, MSM have reported increased bruising or blood in the stool. These effects have not been confirmed in published medical literature or during clinical studies. Use methylsulfonylmethane, MSM with caution in patients who are taking drugs with the potential for additive bleeding, including nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). During an available, published clinical trials in patients with osteoarthritis, patients with bleeding disorders or using anticoagulants or platelet inhibiting drugs were excluded from enrollment. Patients who choose to consume methylsulfonylmethane, MSM while receiving NSAIDs should be observed for potential bleeding.
Metoprolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Metoprolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Mifepristone: (Moderate) Mifepristone significantly increased exposure of drugs metabolized by CYP2C8/2C9 in interaction studies. Therefore, when mifepristone is used chronically, as in the treatment of Cushing's syndrome, use caution with coadministered CYP2C8/2C9 substrates, including the NSAIDs. Use the lowest doses of the substrate and patients should be monitored closely for adverse reactions.
Milnacipran: (Moderate) Platelet aggregation may be impaired by milnacipran due to platelet serotonin depletion, possibly increasing the risk of a bleeding complication (e.g., gastrointestinal bleeding, ecchymoses, epistaxis, hematomas, petechiae, hemorrhage) in patients receiving nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding in patients taking milnacipran and NSAIDs.
Mitotane: (Major) Use caution if mitotane and diclofenac are used concomitantly, and monitor for decreased efficacy of diclofenac and a possible change in dosage requirements. Mitotane is a strong CYP3A4 inducer and diclofenac is a CYP3A4 substrate in vitro; coadministration may result in decreased plasma concentrations of diclofenac.
Mitoxantrone: (Major) Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of mitoxantrone, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors, including aspirin, strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Modafinil: (Moderate) If possible, avoid concurrent use of diclofenac with inhibitors of CYP2C9, such as modafinil; if coadministration is required, do not exceed a total daily diclofenac dose of 100 mg. When used with a CYP2C9 inhibitor the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may increase, potentially resulting in adverse events.
Moexipril: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Mometasone: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Nabumetone: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Nadolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Naproxen: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID, including COX-2 inhibitors, due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Naproxen; Esomeprazole: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID, including COX-2 inhibitors, due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Naproxen; Pseudoephedrine: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID, including COX-2 inhibitors, due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Nebivolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Nebivolol; Valsartan: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible. (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Nelarabine: (Major) Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of nelarabine, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors, including aspirin, strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Neomycin: (Minor) It is possible that additive nephrotoxicity may occur in patients who receive NSAIDs concurrently with other nephrotoxic agents, such as aminoglycosides.
Neostigmine: (Moderate) NSAIDs may cause additive pharmacodynamic GI effects with cholinesterase inhibitors, leading to gastrointestinal intolerance. Patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs should be monitored closely for symptoms of active or occult gastrointestinal bleeding. While NSAIDs appear to suppress microglial activity, which in turn may slow inflammatory neurodegenerative processes important for the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), there are no clinical data at this time to suggest that NSAIDs alone or as combined therapy with AD agents result in synergistic effects in AD.
Neostigmine; Glycopyrrolate: (Moderate) NSAIDs may cause additive pharmacodynamic GI effects with cholinesterase inhibitors, leading to gastrointestinal intolerance. Patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs should be monitored closely for symptoms of active or occult gastrointestinal bleeding. While NSAIDs appear to suppress microglial activity, which in turn may slow inflammatory neurodegenerative processes important for the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), there are no clinical data at this time to suggest that NSAIDs alone or as combined therapy with AD agents result in synergistic effects in AD.
Nirmatrelvir; Ritonavir: (Moderate) Concurrent administration of diclofenac with ritonavir may result in elevated diclofenac plasma concentrations. Diclofenac is metabolized by the hepatic isoenzyme CYP3A4; ritonavir is an inhibitor of this enzyme. Caution and close monitoring for adverse effects are advised if these drugs are administered together.
Non-Ionic Contrast Media: (Moderate) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk for nephrotoxicity when given to patients receiving a contrast agents. When possible, withhold NSAID therapy during administration of a contrast agent.
Olanzapine; Fluoxetine: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use due to increased risk for bleeding. Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an association between use of psychotropic drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and the occurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Olmesartan: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Olmesartan; Amlodipine; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Olmesartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Olopatadine; Mometasone: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Omacetaxine: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of omacetaxine and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) when the platelet count is less than 50,000 cells/microliter due to an increased risk of bleeding.
Oritavancin: (Moderate) Coadministration of oritavancin and diclofenac may result in increases or decreases in bioactivation of diclofenac, which may increase side effects or decrease efficacy of diclofenac. Diclofenac is primarily bioactivated by CYP2C9, but also by CYP3A4. Oritavancin weakly induces CYP3A4, while weakly inhibiting CYP2C9. If these drugs are administered concurrently, monitor the patient for signs of toxicity or lack of efficacy.
Oxaprozin: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Paclitaxel: (Major) Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of paclitaxel, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors, including aspirin, strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Pamidronate: (Moderate) Monitor renal function during concomitant pamidronate and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug use due to risk for additive nephrotoxicity.
Paroxetine: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use due to increased risk for bleeding. Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an association between use of psychotropic drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and the occurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Pazopanib: (Moderate) Pazopanib is a weak inhibitor of CYP3A4. Coadministration of pazopanib and diclofenac, a CYP3A4 substrate, may cause an increase in systemic concentrations of diclofenac. Use caution when administering these drugs concomitantly.
Pemetrexed: (Major) Avoid administration of diclofenac for 2 days before, the day of, and 2 days after administration of pemetrexed in patients with a creatinine clearance (CrCl) between 45 mL/minute and 79 mL/minute due to the risk of increased pemetrexed exposure resulting in an increase in pemetrexed-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable, monitor these patients more frequently for myelosuppression, nephrotoxicity, and gastrointestinal toxicity.
Pentamidine: (Major) Avoid concurrent or sequential use of pentamidine with diclofenac. Coadministration may increase the risk for drug-induced nephrotoxicity. Closely monitor renal function if coadministration is unavoidable.
Pentobarbital: (Moderate) Caution is advised when administering diclofenac with inducers of CYP2C9, such as barbiturates. When used together, the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may decrease, potentially resulting in impaired efficacy. Higher diclofenac doses may be needed. In addition, phenobarbital toxicity has been reported to have occurred in a patient on chronic phenobarbital treatment after diclofenac initiation.
Pentosan: (Moderate) An additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving anticoagulants in combination with other agents known to increase the risk of bleeding such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Monitor clinical and laboratory response closely during concurrent use.
Pentostatin: (Major) Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of pentostatin, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors, including aspirin, strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Perindopril: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Perindopril; Amlodipine: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Pexidartinib: (Moderate) Monitor for evidence of hepatotoxicity if pexidartinib is coadministered with diclofenac. Avoid concurrent use in patients with increased serum transaminases, total bilirubin, or direct bilirubin (more than ULN) or active liver or biliary tract disease.
Phenobarbital: (Moderate) Caution is advised when administering diclofenac with inducers of CYP2C9, such as barbiturates. When used together, the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may decrease, potentially resulting in impaired efficacy. Higher diclofenac doses may be needed. In addition, phenobarbital toxicity has been reported to have occurred in a patient on chronic phenobarbital treatment after diclofenac initiation.
Phenobarbital; Hyoscyamine; Atropine; Scopolamine: (Moderate) Caution is advised when administering diclofenac with inducers of CYP2C9, such as barbiturates. When used together, the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may decrease, potentially resulting in impaired efficacy. Higher diclofenac doses may be needed. In addition, phenobarbital toxicity has been reported to have occurred in a patient on chronic phenobarbital treatment after diclofenac initiation.
Phenoxybenzamine: (Moderate) If nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and an antihypertensive drug are concurrently used, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of renal insufficiency and blood pressure control. Doses of antihypertensive medications may require adjustment in patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs. NSAIDs, to varying degrees, have been associated with an elevation in blood pressure. This effect is most significant in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive agents and long-term NSAID therapy. NSAIDs cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation, which may result in a reduction in renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and an increase in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain. Patients who rely upon renal prostaglandins to maintain renal perfusion may have acute renal blood flow reduction with NSAID usage. Elderly patients may be at increased risk of adverse effects from combined long-term NSAID therapy and antihypertensive agents, especially diuretics, due to age-related decreases in renal function and an increased risk of stroke and coronary artery disease.
Phentolamine: (Moderate) If nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and an antihypertensive drug are concurrently used, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of renal insufficiency and blood pressure control. Doses of antihypertensive medications may require adjustment in patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs. NSAIDs, to varying degrees, have been associated with an elevation in blood pressure. This effect is most significant in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive agents and long-term NSAID therapy. NSAIDs cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation, which may result in a reduction in renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and an increase in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain. Patients who rely upon renal prostaglandins to maintain renal perfusion may have acute renal blood flow reduction with NSAID usage. Elderly patients may be at increased risk of adverse effects from combined long-term NSAID therapy and antihypertensive agents, especially diuretics, due to age-related decreases in renal function and an increased risk of stroke and coronary artery disease.
Photosensitizing agents (topical): (Moderate) Agents that inhibit prostaglandin synthesis such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), could decrease the efficacy of photosensitizing agents used in photodynamic therapy. Avoidance of NSAIDs before and during photodynamic therapy may be advisable.
Physostigmine: (Moderate) NSAIDs may cause additive pharmacodynamic GI effects with cholinesterase inhibitors, leading to gastrointestinal intolerance. Patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs should be monitored closely for symptoms of active or occult gastrointestinal bleeding. While NSAIDs appear to suppress microglial activity, which in turn may slow inflammatory neurodegenerative processes important for the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), there are no clinical data at this time to suggest that NSAIDs alone or as combined therapy with AD agents result in synergistic effects in AD.
Pindolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Pioglitazone; Glimepiride: (Moderate) NSAIDs may enhance hypoglycemia in diabetic patients via inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which indirectly increases insulin secretion. If NSAIDs are administered or discontinued in patients receiving oral antidiabetic agents, patients should be monitored for hypoglycemia or loss of blood glucose control. No clinically significant interaction between sulindac at daily doses of 400 mg and oral hypoglycemic agents has been observed. Sulindac, its sulfide metabolite, and sulfonylureas are highly bound to protein. Sulindac could displace the sulfonylureas, altering hypoglycemic activity. Careful patient monitoring is recommended to ensure that no change in their diabetes medicine dosage is required. A sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be needed, especially if sulindac doses greater than 400 mg daily are used or if the drug combination is used in patients with renal impairment or other metabolic defects that might increase sulindac blood concentrations.
Piroxicam: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Platelet Inhibitors: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant platelet inhibitor and chronic nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of bleeding.
Pneumococcal Vaccine, Polyvalent: (Moderate) Concomitant administration of antipyretics, such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), may decrease an individual's immunological response to the pneumococcal vaccine. A post-marketing study conducted in Poland using a non-US vaccination schedule (2, 3, 4, and 12 months of age) evaluated the impact of prophylactic oral acetaminophen on antibody responses to Prevnar 13. Data show that acetaminophen, given at the time of vaccination and then dosed at 6 to 8 hour intervals for 3 doses on a scheduled basis, reduced the antibody response to some serotypes after the third dose of Prevnar 13 when compared to the antibody responses of infants who only received antipyretics 'as needed' for treatment. However, reduced antibody responses were not observed after the fourth dose of Prevnar 13 with prophylactic acetaminophen.
Polyethylene Glycol; Electrolytes: (Moderate) Use caution when prescribing sulfate salt bowel preparation in patients taking concomitant medications that may affect renal function such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Polyethylene Glycol; Electrolytes; Ascorbic Acid: (Moderate) Use caution when prescribing sulfate salt bowel preparation in patients taking concomitant medications that may affect renal function such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Polymyxin B: (Major) The chronic coadministration of systemic polymyxins may increase the risk of developing nephrotoxicity, even in patients who have normal renal function. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk for nephrotoxicity when used concurrently. Monitor patients for changes in renal function if these drugs are coadministered. Since Polymyxin B is eliminated by the kidney, coadministration with other potentially nephrotoxic drugs, including nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may theoretically increase serum concentrations of either drug.
Porfimer: (Minor) Preclinical data suggest agents that inhibit prostaglandin synthesis such as diclofenac could decrease the efficacy of photosensitizing agents used in photodynamic therapy. Avoidance of diclofenac before and during photodynamic therapy may be advisable.
Posaconazole: (Moderate) Posaconazole and diclofenac should be coadministered with caution due to an increased potential for diclofenac-related adverse events. Posaconazole is a potent inhibitor of CYP3A4, an isoenzyme partially responsible for the metabolism of diclofenac. These drugs used in combination may result in elevated diclofenac plasma concentrations, causing an increased risk for diclofenac-related adverse events.
Potassium: (Moderate) Monitor serum potassium concentrations closely if potassium supplements and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used together. Concomitant use may increase the risk of hyperkalemia.
Pralatrexate: (Major) Renal elimination accounts for approximately 34% of the overall clearance of pralatrexate. Concomitant administration of drugs that undergo substantial renal clearance, such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may result in delayed clearance of pralatrexate.
Prasugrel: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant platelet inhibitor and chronic nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of bleeding.
Prazosin: (Moderate) If nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and an antihypertensive drug are concurrently used, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of renal insufficiency and blood pressure control. Doses of antihypertensive medications may require adjustment in patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs. NSAIDs, to varying degrees, have been associated with an elevation in blood pressure. This effect is most significant in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive agents and long-term NSAID therapy. NSAIDs cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation, which may result in a reduction in renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and an increase in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain. Patients who rely upon renal prostaglandins to maintain renal perfusion may have acute renal blood flow reduction with NSAID usage. Elderly patients may be at increased risk of adverse effects from combined long-term NSAID therapy and antihypertensive agents, especially diuretics, due to age-related decreases in renal function and an increased risk of stroke and coronary artery disease.
Prednisolone: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Prednisone: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Pretomanid: (Major) Avoid coadministration of pretomanid with diclofenac, especially in patients with impaired hepatic function, due to increased risk for hepatotoxicity. Monitor for evidence of hepatotoxicity if coadministration is necessary. If new or worsening hepatic dysfunction occurs, discontinue hepatotoxic medications.
Primidone: (Moderate) Caution is advised when administering diclofenac with inducers of CYP2C9, such as barbiturates. When used together, the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may decrease, potentially resulting in impaired efficacy. Higher diclofenac doses may be needed. In addition, phenobarbital toxicity has been reported to have occurred in a patient on chronic phenobarbital treatment after diclofenac initiation.
Probenecid: (Major) Probenecid can decrease the renal clearance of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents (NSAIDs). Reduction of the NSAID dose may be necessary when it is used together with probenecid.
Probenecid; Colchicine: (Major) Probenecid can decrease the renal clearance of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agents (NSAIDs). Reduction of the NSAID dose may be necessary when it is used together with probenecid.
Procarbazine: (Major) Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of procarbazine, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors, including aspirin, strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Propranolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Propranolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Pyridostigmine: (Moderate) NSAIDs may cause additive pharmacodynamic GI effects with cholinesterase inhibitors, leading to gastrointestinal intolerance. Patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs should be monitored closely for symptoms of active or occult gastrointestinal bleeding. While NSAIDs appear to suppress microglial activity, which in turn may slow inflammatory neurodegenerative processes important for the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), there are no clinical data at this time to suggest that NSAIDs alone or as combined therapy with AD agents result in synergistic effects in AD.
Quinapril: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Quinapril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Quinolones: (Moderate) Use quinolones and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) concomitantly with caution due to potential increased risk of CNS stimulation and convulsive seizures. NSAIDs in combination with very high doses of quinolones have been shown to provoke convulsions in preclinical studies and postmarketing.
Ramipril: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Reteplase, r-PA: (Moderate) NSAIDs can cause GI bleeding, inhibit platelet aggregation, prolong bleeding time; these pharmacodynamic effects may be increased when administered to patients receiving thrombolytic agents. Patients receiving these drugs concurrently should be monitored closely for bleeding.
Riluzole: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of hepatic injury during coadministration of riluzole and diclofenac. Concomitant use may increase the risk for hepatotoxicity. Discontinue riluzole if clinical signs of liver dysfunction are present.
Risedronate: (Minor) Monitor for gastrointestinal adverse events during concurrent use of risedronate and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Both medications have been associated with gastrointestinal irritation although data suggest concomitant use introduces little additional risk for adverse effects for most patients.
Ritonavir: (Moderate) Concurrent administration of diclofenac with ritonavir may result in elevated diclofenac plasma concentrations. Diclofenac is metabolized by the hepatic isoenzyme CYP3A4; ritonavir is an inhibitor of this enzyme. Caution and close monitoring for adverse effects are advised if these drugs are administered together.
Rivaroxaban: (Major) An additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving anticoagulants in combination with other agents known to increase the risk of bleeding such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Monitor clinical and laboratory response closely during concurrent use.
Rivastigmine: (Moderate) NSAIDs may cause additive pharmacodynamic GI effects with cholinesterase inhibitors, leading to gastrointestinal intolerance. Patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs should be monitored closely for symptoms of active or occult gastrointestinal bleeding. While NSAIDs appear to suppress microglial activity, which in turn may slow inflammatory neurodegenerative processes important for the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), there are no clinical data at this time to suggest that NSAIDs alone or as combined therapy with AD agents result in synergistic effects in AD.
Rucaparib: (Moderate) Monitor for an increase in diclofenac-related adverse reactions if coadministration with rucaparib is necessary. Diclofenac is a CYP2C9 substrate and rucaparib is a weak CYP2C9 inhibitor.
Sacubitril; Valsartan: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Salsalate: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with salsalate due to an increased risk of gastrointestinal toxicity and renal impairment, with little or no increase in efficacy.
Secobarbital: (Moderate) Caution is advised when administering diclofenac with inducers of CYP2C9, such as barbiturates. When used together, the systemic exposure to diclofenac (a CYP2C9 substrate) may decrease, potentially resulting in impaired efficacy. Higher diclofenac doses may be needed. In addition, phenobarbital toxicity has been reported to have occurred in a patient on chronic phenobarbital treatment after diclofenac initiation.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use due to increased risk for bleeding. Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an association between use of psychotropic drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and the occurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Sertraline: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use due to increased risk for bleeding. Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an association between use of psychotropic drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and the occurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
Sodium Phosphate Monobasic Monohydrate; Sodium Phosphate Dibasic Anhydrous: (Moderate) Concomitant use of medicines with potential to alter renal perfusion or function such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk of acute phosphate nephropathy in patients taking sodium phosphate monobasic monohydrate; sodium phosphate dibasic anhydrous.
Sodium picosulfate; Magnesium oxide; Anhydrous citric acid: (Moderate) Use caution when prescribing sodium picosulfate; magnesium oxide; anhydrous citric acid in patients taking concomitant medications that may affect renal function such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Sotalol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Sparsentan: (Moderate) Monitor for worsening renal function during concomitant use of sparsentan and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including selective cyclooxygenase (COX-2) inhibitors. Concomitant use increases the risk for nephrotoxicity, especially in patients with additional risk factors such as hypovolemia and chronic renal impairment.
Spironolactone: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure as well as for signs of worsening renal function and loss of diuretic efficacy, including antihypertensive effects, during concomitant spironolactone and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. NSAIDs may cause a dose-dependent reduction in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal decompensation, and concomitant diuretic use increases the risk of this reaction. NSAIDs are associated with fluid retention which may blunt the cardiovascular effects of diuretics.
Spironolactone; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure as well as for signs of worsening renal function and loss of diuretic efficacy, including antihypertensive effects, during concomitant spironolactone and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. NSAIDs may cause a dose-dependent reduction in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal decompensation, and concomitant diuretic use increases the risk of this reaction. NSAIDs are associated with fluid retention which may blunt the cardiovascular effects of diuretics.
Streptomycin: (Moderate) It is possible that additive nephrotoxicity may occur in patients who receive nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) concurrently with other nephrotoxic agents, such as streptomycin.
Sulfonylureas: (Moderate) NSAIDs may enhance hypoglycemia in diabetic patients via inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which indirectly increases insulin secretion. If NSAIDs are administered or discontinued in patients receiving oral antidiabetic agents, patients should be monitored for hypoglycemia or loss of blood glucose control. No clinically significant interaction between sulindac at daily doses of 400 mg and oral hypoglycemic agents has been observed. Sulindac, its sulfide metabolite, and sulfonylureas are highly bound to protein. Sulindac could displace the sulfonylureas, altering hypoglycemic activity. Careful patient monitoring is recommended to ensure that no change in their diabetes medicine dosage is required. A sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be needed, especially if sulindac doses greater than 400 mg daily are used or if the drug combination is used in patients with renal impairment or other metabolic defects that might increase sulindac blood concentrations.
Sulindac: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Sumatriptan; Naproxen: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID, including COX-2 inhibitors, due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Tacrine: (Moderate) NSAIDs may cause additive pharmacodynamic GI effects with cholinesterase inhibitors, leading to gastrointestinal intolerance. Patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs should be monitored closely for symptoms of active or occult gastrointestinal bleeding. While NSAIDs appear to suppress microglial activity, which in turn may slow inflammatory neurodegenerative processes important for the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD), there are no clinical data at this time to suggest that NSAIDs alone or as combined therapy with AD agents result in synergistic effects in AD.
Tacrolimus: (Moderate) Monitor patients for signs of worsening renal function during coadministration of tacrolimus and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Coadministration may increase the risk for drug-induced nephrotoxicity.
Telavancin: (Minor) Concurrent or sequential use of telavancin with drugs that inhibit renal prostaglandins such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) may lead to additive nephrotoxicity. Closely monitor renal function and adjust telavancin doses based on calculated creatinine clearance.
Telmisartan: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Telmisartan; Amlodipine: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Telmisartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Temozolomide: (Major) Myelosuppression, primarily neutropenia and thrombocytopenia, is the dose-limiting toxicity of temozolomide. Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of temozolomide, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors, including aspirin, ASA, strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Tenecteplase: (Moderate) NSAIDs can cause GI bleeding, inhibit platelet aggregation, prolong bleeding time; these pharmacodynamic effects may be increased when administered to patients receiving thrombolytic agents. Patients receiving these drugs concurrently should be monitored closely for bleeding.
Teniposide: (Major) Dose-limiting bone marrow suppression is the most significant toxicity associated with teniposide, and may include thrombocytopenia. An additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding. Salicylates also displace protein-bound teniposide in fresh human serum to a small but significant extent. Because of the extremely high binding of teniposide to plasma proteins, these small decreases in binding could cause substantial increases in plasma free drug concentrations that could result in potentiation of teniposide toxicity, including bone marrow suppression.
Tenofovir Alafenamide: (Moderate) Monitor for changes in renal function if tenofovir alafenamide is administered in combination with nephrotoxic agents, such as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Tenofovir is primarily excreted via the kidneys by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion. Coadministration of tenofovir alafenamide with a drug that reduces renal function or competes for active tubular secretion may increase concentrations of tenofovir and other renally eliminated drugs, thus, increasing the risk of adverse reactions.
Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Avoid administering tenofovir, PMPA concurrently with or recently after a nephrotoxic agent, such as high-dose or multiple nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Cases of acute renal failure, some requiring hospitalization and renal replacement therapy, have been reported after high-dose or multiple NSAIDs were initiated in patients who appeared stable on tenofovir. Consider alternatives to NSAIDs in patients at risk for renal dysfunction. If these drugs must be coadministered, carefully monitor the estimated creatinine creatinine, serum phosphorus, urine glucose, and urine protein prior to, and periodically during, treatment.
Terazosin: (Moderate) If nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and an antihypertensive drug are concurrently used, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of renal insufficiency and blood pressure control. Doses of antihypertensive medications may require adjustment in patients receiving concurrent NSAIDs. NSAIDs, to varying degrees, have been associated with an elevation in blood pressure. This effect is most significant in patients receiving concurrent antihypertensive agents and long-term NSAID therapy. NSAIDs cause a dose-dependent reduction in prostaglandin formation, which may result in a reduction in renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and an increase in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain. Patients who rely upon renal prostaglandins to maintain renal perfusion may have acute renal blood flow reduction with NSAID usage. Elderly patients may be at increased risk of adverse effects from combined long-term NSAID therapy and antihypertensive agents, especially diuretics, due to age-related decreases in renal function and an increased risk of stroke and coronary artery disease.
Tezacaftor; Ivacaftor: (Moderate) Increased monitoring is recommended if ivacaftor is administered concurrently with diclofenac. Ivacaftor is an inhibitor of CYP3A and a weak inhibitor of CYP2C9; diclofenac is metabolized by CYP3A and CYP2C9. Co-administration can theoretically increase diclofenac exposure leading to increased or prolonged therapeutic effects and adverse events. Do not exceed a total daily diclofenac dose of 100 mg.
Thiazide diuretics: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure as well as for signs of worsening renal function and loss of diuretic efficacy, including antihypertensive effects, during concomitant nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) and thiazide diuretic use. NSAIDs may cause a dose-dependent reduction in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal decompensation, and concomitant diuretic use increases the risk of this reaction. NSAIDs have been shown to reduce the natriuretic effect of thiazide diuretics and are associated with fluid retention which may blunt the cardiovascular effects of diuretics.
Thioguanine, 6-TG: (Major) Due to the thrombocytopenic effects of thioguanine, an additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant anticoagulants, NSAIDs, platelet inhibitors, including aspirin, strontium-89 chloride, and thrombolytic agents. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Thrombolytic Agents: (Moderate) NSAIDs can cause GI bleeding, inhibit platelet aggregation, prolong bleeding time; these pharmacodynamic effects may be increased when administered to patients receiving thrombolytic agents. Patients receiving these drugs concurrently should be monitored closely for bleeding.
Ticagrelor: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant platelet inhibitor and chronic nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of bleeding.
Ticlopidine: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant platelet inhibitor and chronic nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of bleeding.
Timolol: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure during concomitant beta-blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of beta-blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs.
Tirofiban: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant platelet inhibitor and chronic nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of bleeding.
Tobacco: (Major) Advise patients to avoid smoking tobacco while taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Concomitant use of NSAIDs with tobacco smoking may enhance the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, including peptic ulcer and GI bleeding. Patients using tobacco and NSAIDs concurrently should be monitored closely for GI adverse reactions.
Tobramycin: (Moderate) It is possible that additive nephrotoxicity may occur in patients who receive nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) concurrently with other nephrotoxic agents, such as tobramycin.
Tolazamide: (Moderate) NSAIDs may enhance hypoglycemia in diabetic patients via inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which indirectly increases insulin secretion. If NSAIDs are administered or discontinued in patients receiving oral antidiabetic agents, patients should be monitored for hypoglycemia or loss of blood glucose control. No clinically significant interaction between sulindac at daily doses of 400 mg and oral hypoglycemic agents has been observed. Sulindac, its sulfide metabolite, and sulfonylureas are highly bound to protein. Sulindac could displace the sulfonylureas, altering hypoglycemic activity. Careful patient monitoring is recommended to ensure that no change in their diabetes medicine dosage is required. A sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be needed, especially if sulindac doses greater than 400 mg daily are used or if the drug combination is used in patients with renal impairment or other metabolic defects that might increase sulindac blood concentrations.
Tolbutamide: (Moderate) NSAIDs may enhance hypoglycemia in diabetic patients via inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which indirectly increases insulin secretion. If NSAIDs are administered or discontinued in patients receiving oral antidiabetic agents, patients should be monitored for hypoglycemia or loss of blood glucose control. No clinically significant interaction between sulindac at daily doses of 400 mg and oral hypoglycemic agents has been observed. Sulindac, its sulfide metabolite, and sulfonylureas are highly bound to protein. Sulindac could displace the sulfonylureas, altering hypoglycemic activity. Careful patient monitoring is recommended to ensure that no change in their diabetes medicine dosage is required. A sulfonylurea dose adjustment may be needed, especially if sulindac doses greater than 400 mg daily are used or if the drug combination is used in patients with renal impairment or other metabolic defects that might increase sulindac blood concentrations.
Tolmetin: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of diclofenac with any other NSAID due to the risk of additive serious NSAID toxicities including but not limited to GI bleeding, GI perforation, or peptic ulcers.
Toremifene: (Moderate) Monitor for an increase in diclofenac-related adverse reactions if coadministration with toremifene is necessary. Diclofenac is a CYP2C9 substrate and toremifene is a weak CYP2C9 inhibitor.
Torsemide: (Moderate) If a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and a diuretic are used concurrently, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of decreased renal function and diuretic efficacy. Patients taking diuretics and NSAIDs concurrently are at higher risk of developing renal insufficiency. NSAIDs may reduce the natriuretic effect of diuretics in some patients. NSAIDs have been associated with an inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which may result in reduced renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and increases in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain.
Tositumomab: (Major) The tositumomab therapeutic regimen frequently causes severe and prolonged thrombocytopenia. The potential benefits of medications that interfere with platelet function and/or anticoagulation should be weighed against the potential increased risk of bleeding and hemorrhage. An additive risk of bleeding may be seen in patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs. In addition, large doses of salicylates (>= 3-4 g/day) can cause hypoprothrombinemia, an additional risk factor for bleeding.
Trandolapril: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Trandolapril; Verapamil: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Trazodone: (Moderate) Platelet aggregation may be impaired by trazodone due to platelet serotonin depletion, possibly increasing the risk of a bleeding complication (e.g., gastrointestinal bleeding, ecchymoses, epistaxis, hematomas, petechiae, hemorrhage) in patients receiving nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Patients should be instructed to monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding while taking trazodone concurrently with medications that impair platelet function and to promptly report any bleeding events to the practitioner.
Treprostinil: (Moderate) NSAIDs may decrease the effect of antihypertensive agents through various mechanisms, including renal and peripheral vasoactive pathways.
Triamcinolone: (Moderate) Monitor for gastrointestinal toxicity during concurrent corticosteroid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of GI bleeding. The Beers criteria recommends that this drug combination be avoided in older adults; if coadministration cannot be avoided, provide gastrointestinal protection.
Triamterene: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure as well as for signs of worsening renal function and loss of diuretic efficacy, including antihypertensive effects, during concomitant triamterene and diclofenac use. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may cause a dose-dependent reduction in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal decompensation, and concomitant diuretic use increases the risk of this reaction. NSAIDs are associated with fluid retention which may blunt the cardiovascular effects of diuretics.
Triamterene; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure as well as for signs of worsening renal function and loss of diuretic efficacy, including antihypertensive effects, during concomitant triamterene and diclofenac use. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may cause a dose-dependent reduction in renal blood flow, which may precipitate overt renal decompensation, and concomitant diuretic use increases the risk of this reaction. NSAIDs are associated with fluid retention which may blunt the cardiovascular effects of diuretics.
Urea: (Moderate) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may reduce the natriuretic effect of diuretics in some patients. NSAIDS have been associated with an inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, which may result in reduced renal blood flow leading to renal insufficiency and increases in blood pressure that are often accompanied by peripheral edema and weight gain. Patients taking diuretics and NSAIDS concurrently are at higher risk of developing renal insufficiency. If an NSAID and a diuretic are used concurrently, carefully monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of decreased renal function and diuretic efficacy.
Valacyclovir: (Moderate) Monitor patients for signs of worsening renal function during coadministration of valacyclovir and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Coadministration may increase the risk for drug-induced nephrotoxicity.
Valganciclovir: (Minor) Concurrent use of nephrotoxic agents, such as NSAIDs, with valganciclovir should be done cautiously to avoid additive nephrotoxicity.
Valsartan: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Valsartan; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Monitor blood pressure and renal function periodically during concomitant angiotensin II blocker and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II blockers may be diminished by NSAIDs. In persons who are elderly, volume-depleted, or with compromised renal function, coadministration of angiotensin II blockers and NSAIDs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure; these effects are usually reversible.
Vancomycin: (Minor) It is possible that additive nephrotoxicity may occur in patients who receive NSAIDs concurrently with other nephrotoxic agents, including vancomycin.
Vemurafenib: (Minor) Concomitant use of vemurafenib and diclofenac may result in altered concentrations of diclofenac. Vemurafenib is an inhibitor of CYP2C9 and an inducer of CYP3A4. Diclofenac is a substrate of CYP2C9 and CYP3A4. Use caution and monitor patients for toxicity and efficacy.
Venlafaxine: (Moderate) Platelet aggregation may be impaired by venlafaxine due to platelet serotonin depletion, possibly increasing the risk of a bleeding complication (e.g., gastrointestinal bleeding, ecchymoses, epistaxis, hematomas, petechiae, hemorrhage) in patients receiving nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of bleeding when coadministering venlafaxine with NSAIDs.
Verteporfin: (Moderate) Use caution if coadministration of verteporfin with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is necessary due to the risk of decreased verteporfin efficacy. Oxaprozin may additionally worsen photosensitivity. Verteporfin is a light-activated drug. Once activated, local damage to neovascular endothelium results in a release of procoagulant and vasoactive factors resulting in platelet aggregation, fibrin clot formation, and vasoconstriction. Concomitant use of drugs that decrease platelet aggregation like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs could decrease the efficacy of verteporfin therapy.
Vigabatrin: (Minor) Vigabatrin is not significantly metabolized; however, it is an inducer of CYP2C9. In theory, decreased exposure of drugs that are extensively metabolized by CYP2C9, such as diclofenac, may occur during concurrent use of vigabatrin.
Vilazodone: (Moderate) Platelet aggregation may be impaired by vilazodone due to platelet serotonin depletion, possibly increasing the risk of a bleeding complication (e.g., gastrointestinal bleeding, ecchymoses, epistaxis, hematomas, petechiae, hemorrhage) in patients receiving nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Patients should be instructed to monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding while taking vilazodone concurrently with NSAIDs and to promptly report any bleeding events to the practitioner.
Voclosporin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of voclosporin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may result in additive nephrotoxicity. Monitor for renal toxicity if concomitant use is required.
Vorapaxar: (Moderate) Monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding during concomitant platelet inhibitor and chronic nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) use. Concomitant use increases the risk of bleeding.
Voriconazole: (Moderate) Voriconazole is known to be an inhibitor of CYP2C9 and may lead to increased plasma levels of some NSAIDs, including diclofenac. A maximum diclofenac dose of 50 mg twice daily is recommended if voriconazole is administered concurrently with diclofenac. Further, monitor for NSAID-induced toxicity such as GI irritation, GI bleeding, or renal dysfunction.
Vortioxetine: (Moderate) Platelet aggregation may be impaired by vortioxetine due to platelet serotonin depletion, possibly increasing the risk of a bleeding complication (e.g., gastrointestinal bleeding, ecchymoses, epistaxis, hematomas, petechiae, hemorrhage) in patients receiving nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Bleeding events related to drugs that inhibit serotonin reuptake have ranged from ecchymosis to life-threatening hemorrhages. Patients should be instructed to monitor for signs and symptoms of bleeding while taking vortioxetine concurrently with medications which impair platelet function and to promptly report any bleeding events to the practitioner.
Warfarin: (Moderate) Monitor patients for signs or symptoms of bleeding during concurrent use of warfarin and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). To minimize the potential for GI bleeding, use the lowest effective NSAID dose for the shortest possible duration. If signs or symptoms of bleeding occur, promptly evaluate and treat. Systemic hematological effects may also occur with the use of topical NSAIDs. NSAIDs inhibit platelet aggregation and may prolong bleeding time in some patients.
Zafirlukast: (Minor) Zafirlukast inhibits the CYP2C9 isoenzymes and should be used cautiously in patients stabilized on drugs metabolized by CYP2C9, such as diclofenac.
Zoledronic Acid: (Moderate) Monitor renal function during concomitant zoledronic acid and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug use due to risk for additive nephrotoxicity.
Diclofenac competitively inhibits both cyclooxygenase (COX) isoenzymes, COX-1 and COX-2, by blocking arachidonate binding resulting in analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory pharmacologic effects. The enzymes COX-1 and COX-2 catalyze the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandin G2 (PGG2), the first step of the synthesis prostaglandins and thromboxanes that are involved in rapid physiological responses. COX isoenzymes are also responsible for a peroxidase reaction, which is not affected by NSAIDs. In addition, NSAIDs do not suppress leukotriene synthesis by lipoxygenase pathways. COX-1 is constitutively expressed in almost all tissues, while COX-2 appears to only be constitutively expressed in the brain, kidney, bones, reproductive organs, and some neoplasms (e.g., colon and prostate cancers). COX-1 is responsible for prostaglandin synthesis in response to stimulation by circulating hormones, as well as maintenance of normal renal function, gastric mucosal integrity, and hemostasis. However, COX-2 is inducible in many cells in response to certain mediators of inflammation (e.g., interleukin-1, tumor necrosis factor, lipopolysaccharide, mitogens, and reactive oxygen intermediates).
-Anti-inflammatory Activity: The anti-inflammatory mechanism of diclofenac is due to decreased prostaglandin synthesis via inhibition of COX-1 and COX-2. It appears that the anti-inflammatory effects may be primarily due to inhibition of the COX-2 isoenzyme. However, COX-1 is expressed at some sites of inflammation. COX-1 is expressed in the joints of rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis patients, especially the synovial lining, and it is the primary enzyme of prostaglandin synthesis in human bursitis. Although diclofenac is considered a non-selective NSAID, it has been shown to have preferential inhibitory activity at COX-2 when tested ex vivo.
-Analgesic Activity: Diclofenac is effective in cases where inflammation has caused sensitivity of pain receptors (hyperalgesia). It appears prostaglandins, specifically prostaglandins E and F, are responsible for sensitizing the pain receptors; therefore, diclofenac has an indirect analgesic effect by inhibiting the production of further prostaglandins and does not directly affect hyperalgesia or the pain threshold.
-Antipyretic Activity: Diclofenac promotes a return to a normal body temperature set point in the hypothalamus by suppressing the synthesis of prostaglandins, specifically PGE2, in circumventricular organs in and near the hypothalamus. Although not indicated for the management of fever, diclofenac may mask fever in some patients, especially with high or chronic dosing.
-Ophthalmic Activity: Following topical application to the eye, diclofenac inhibits miosis by inhibiting the biosynthesis of ocular prostaglandins. Prostaglandins play a role in the miotic response produced during ocular surgery by constricting the iris sphincter independently of cholinergic mechanisms. In the eye, prostaglandins also have been shown to disrupt the blood-aqueous humor barrier, cause vasodilation, increase vascular permeability, promote leukocytosis, and increase intraocular pressure (IOP). The degree of ocular inflammatory response is correlated with prostaglandin-induced increases in ciliary epithelium permeability. When applied topically to the eye, NSAIDs inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandins in the iris, ciliary body, and conjunctiva. Thus, NSAIDs may prevent many of the manifestations of ocular inflammation. Diclofenac does not affect intraocular pressure or tonographic aqueous outflow resistance and does not interfere with the action of acetylcholine administered during ocular surgery. Diclofenac also does not prevent increases in intraocular pressure or decreases in aqueous outflow induced by topical corticosteroids.
-GI Effects: Gastrointestinal side effects of diclofenac are primarily contributed to COX-1 inhibition; however, potential role of COX-2 inhibition in the GI tract has not been fully elucidated.
-Platelet Effects: The inhibition of platelet aggregation seen with diclofenac is due to dose-dependent inhibition of COX-1 in platelets leading to decreased levels of platelet thromboxane A2 and an increase in bleeding time (see Adverse Reactions). The inhibition of platelet aggregation is reversible within 24 hours of discontinuation of diclofenac. This differs from aspirin, which irreversibly binds to COX-1 in platelets inhibiting this enzyme for the life of the cell.
-Renal Effects: In the kidney, prostaglandins, produced by both COX-1 and COX-2, are important regulators of sodium and water reabsorption through PGE2 and of renal function and hemodynamics via PGI2 in response to vasoconstrictive factors (e.g., endothelin-1, a factor that increases peripheral vascular resistance) and through effects on the renin-angiotensin system. In conditions where renal blood flow is dependent upon prostaglandin synthesis, administration of NSAIDs can result in significant decreases in renal blood flow leading to acute renal failure. In addition, alterations in sodium and water reabsorption may worsen in increased blood pressure, which can be significant in selected individuals.
-Bone Effects: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs appear to suppress bone formation via inhibition of COX-2. In vivo data from rabbits revealed a significant reduction of bone growth with both naproxen and rofecoxib as compared with placebo. Bone resorption does not appear to be a mechanism that leads to decreased net bone formation, as the number of CD51 positive osteoclast-like cells per section was decreased with either NSAID as compared with drinking water alone. As determined from in vitro data, NSAIDs appear to arrest the osteoblast cell cycle at the G(0)/G(1) phase and induce cytotoxicity and cell death of osteoblasts primarily by apoptosis rather than by necrosis.
Diclofenac is administered orally, intravenously, topically, and as an ophthalmic solution. It appears to be widely distributed, with significant amounts in synovial fluid. Protein binding is roughly 99%, primarily to albumin. It is unknown whether diclofenac crosses the placenta. Significant distribution into breast milk does not occur.
Metabolism via hepatic cytochrome P450 2C9 and 3A4 involves conjugation at the carboxyl group of the side chain or single or multiple hydroxylations resulting in several phenolic metabolites, most of which are converted to glucuronide conjugates. Acylglucuronidation mediated by UGT2B7 and oxidation mediated by CYP2C8 may also play a role in metabolism. In vitro, the biotransformation of diclofenac to 4'-hydroxy-3'-(glutathion-S-yl) diclofenac is CYP2C9-dependent, and metabolism to 5-hydroxy-4-(glutathion-S-yl) diclofenac and 5-hydroxy-6-(glutathion-S-yl) diclofenac mainly involves CYP3A4. Although both CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 catalyze the bioactivation, CYP2C9 is capable of producing the benzoquinone imine intermediate at lower drug concentrations. For example, 4'-hydroxy-3'-(glutathion-S-yl) diclofenac was the dominant metabolite over a substrate concentration range of 10 to 50 micromolar. The metabolites 5-hydroxy-4-(glutathion-S-yl) diclofenac and 5-hydroxy-6-(glutathion-S-yl) diclofenac became equally important products at diclofenac concentrations of at least 100 micromolar. The 4'-hydroxy- diclofenac metabolite, which is formed via CYP3A4, has very weak pharmacologic activity. The metabolites after administration are subsequently excreted through urinary and biliary pathways. About 65% of a dose is excreted in the urine and about 35% in the bile. Less than 1% is excreted in the urine unchanged, with the remainder as metabolites or conjugates of the drug. Conjugates of unchanged diclofenac account for 5 to 10% of the dose excreted in the urine and less than 5% excreted in the bile. Little or no unchanged unconjugated drug is excreted.
Affected cytochrome P450 isoenzymes and drug transporters: CYP2C9, CYP3A4, UGT2B7, and CYP2C8
Metabolism via hepatic CYP450 2C9 and 3A4 involves conjugation at the carboxyl group of the side chain or single or multiple hydroxylations resulting in several phenolic metabolites, most of which are converted to glucuronide conjugates. Acylglucuronidation mediated by UGT2B7 and hepatic oxidation mediated by CYP2C8 may also play a role in metabolism.
-Route-Specific Pharmacokinetics
Oral Route
Diclofenac is available orally as immediate-release tablets and capsules, oral solution, delayed-release tablets (enteric-coated), and extended-release tablets.
-Oral solid dosage forms, immediate-release: The immediate-release formulations are designed to release diclofenac in the stomach. Diclofenac is almost completely absorbed from the GI tract after oral administration, but bioavailability is only about 50% because of extensive first-pass metabolism, possibly due to intestinal cytochrome P450 CYP3A4. On the fourth day of diclofenac therapy post-surgery, a mean peak plasma concentration of 902 ng/mL at a Tmax of 1.26 hours was measured after administration of immediate-release 50 mg tablets; whereas, administration of immediate-release 25 mg liquid-filled capsules resulted in mean peak plasma concentration of 749 ng/mL at a Tmax of 0.63 hours. The effect of fed versus fasting states was not determined for either product; however, it is known that food delays the rate but not the extent of absorption of the immediate-release tablet.
-Diclofenac oral solution, immediate-release: After administration of diclofenac oral solution to fasting volunteers, Tmax was achieved in approximately 0.25 hours (range: 0.17 to 0.67 hours). A reduction in peak plasma concentrations of 70% was observed after administration of diclofenac oral solution after a high fat meal, which could potentially decrease efficacy.
-Delayed-release and extended-release products: The delayed-release product resists dissolution in the low pH of gastric fluids and rapidly releases the drug in the higher pH environment of the duodenum. The extended-release preparation releases diclofenac over a prolonged period. Administration of several individual diclofenac delayed-release tablets may not yield equivalent peak concentrations as 1 higher strength delayed-release tablet due to the staggered gastric emptying of the tablets into the duodenum. After administration of the delayed-release diclofenac product in fasting normal volunteers, peak plasma concentrations are reached in about 2 hours (range: 1 to 4 hours). When the delayed-release products are taken with food, there is usually a delay in the onset of absorption of 1 to 4.5 hours, with delays as long as 10 hours in some patients, and a reduction in peak concentrations by approximately 40%. The extent of diclofenac absorption from the extended-release tablets is not significantly affected when the drug is taken with food; however, food significantly alters the absorption pattern as indicated by a delay of 1 to 2 hours in the Tmax and a 2-fold increase in the Cmax values. The plasma profile for the extended-release tablets under fed conditions showed a more consistent absorption pattern with a single peak usually occurring between 5 to 6 hours after the meal. Under fasting conditions, the plasma profile of the extended-release tablets is characterized by multiple peaks and high intersubject variability.
Intravenous Route
After IV administration to healthy volunteers, plasma concentrations of diclofenac exceeded that of immediate-release oral diclofenac for the first 45 minutes reaching a maximum of 4.8-fold 5 minutes after administration. Minimal accumulation occurred after 4 doses of 37.5 mg IV given every 6 hours. IV diclofenac exhibits linear pharmacokinetics over the dose range of 18.75 to 75 mg. The reported elimination half-lives of IV diclofenac are 1.4 and 2.3 hours after single and multiple doses, respectively.
Topical Route
-Diclofenac gel: When applied topically, diclofenac is absorbed into the epidermis resulting in a low, yet potentially clinically significant, systemic exposure. Compared to diclofenac oral bioavailability of 50% to 60%, approximately 10% of the applied dose of diclofenac 3% gel is absorbed systemically in both normal and compromised epidermis after 7 days of 4-times daily applications. The mean systemic exposure (AUC) was 9 +/- 19 ng x hour/mL, and the maximum serum diclofenac concentration (Cmax) was 4 +/- 5 ng/mL after application of 2 grams of the 3% gel 3 times daily for 6 days. After application of 4 grams of the 1% gel to the knee 4 times daily (total daily dose of 160 mg of diclofenac sodium) for 7 days, the mean Cmax was 15 +/- 7.3 ng/mL, the time to the maximum concentration was 14 hours (range, 0 to 24 hours), and the AUC over 24 hours was 233 +/- 128 ng x hour/mL. This equates to a Cmax of 0.6% and an AUC of 5.8% of the values obtained after administration of oral diclofenac sodium 50 mg 3 times daily. Systemic exposure after application of 4 grams of the 1% gel to each knee and 2 grams to each hand 4 times daily (total daily dose of 480 mg of diclofenac sodium) for 7 days equated to a Cmax of 2.2% and an AUC of 19.7% of the values obtained after administration of oral diclofenac sodium 50 mg 3 times daily. Use of diclofenac topical solution at recommended doses for 7 days resulted in a Cmax of 19.4 +/- 9.3 ng x hour/mL and a systemic exposure of approximately one-third that of diclofenac 3% gel use. After diclofenac topical patch use a Cmax range of 0.7 to 6 ng/mL was obtained 10 to 20 hours after a single patch application to the upper, inner arm. Diclofenac plasma concentrations of 1.3 to 8.8 ng/mL were noted after 5 days of twice daily patch application.
-Diclofenac topical patch (Flector): The elimination half-life of diclofenac from diclofenac epolamine medicated topical patch is approximately 12 hours.
-Diclofenac topical system (Licart): After daily application for 4 consecutive days on the front thigh, the Cmax occurred 4 to 20 hours after application, with mean concentrations of 0.5 to 0.9 ng/mL. Systemic exposure (AUC) and Cmax were less than 1% lower than after a single 50 mg diclofenac sodium tablet. An average of 7 mg of diclofenac is released from the topical system daily. The Cmax and AUC increased approximately 20% during moderate exercise (3 cycling sessions of 20 minutes each at 50% heart rate reserve above resting heart rate), occlusion (elastic bandage over entire topical system during 24 hours of application with 2 hours of non-occlusion), and moderate heat (immediately after application and 4, 8, and 12 hours thereafter over 4 consecutive days, warmed with a heat wrap for 20 minutes, with total heat exposure of 5 hours 20 minutes). The elimination half-life of diclofenac from diclofenac epolamine topical system is approximately 12 hours.
Other Route(s)
Ophthalmic Route
Systemic absorption from the ophthalmic formulation is not clinically significant.
-Special Populations
Hepatic Impairment
No differences in the pharmacokinetics of diclofenac have been detected in patients with hepatic impairment (cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis).
Renal Impairment
No differences in the pharmacokinetics of diclofenac have been detected in patients with renal impairment (CrCl 3 to 42 mL/minute). Limited to no information is available on the use of diclofenac topical gel or solution, diclofenac epolamine patch, or diclofenac potassium tablets in patients with advanced renal impairment.
Pediatrics
The pharmacokinetics of diclofenac in children and adolescents is similar to that observed in adults.
A mean peak plasma concentration of 699 +/- 464 ng/mL was attained approximately 1 hour after oral administration and elimination half-life was less than 2 hours in 24 pediatric patients (age: 12 to 17 years) receiving an oral diclofenac dose of 25 mg every 6 hours.
The average concentration of diclofenac was 1.65 ng/mL 24 hours after initial application of the topical patch (Flector) and 1.8 ng/mL at the final visit (day 3 to 15) in pediatric patients 6 years and older.
Geriatric
In a study of 88 patients (18 thru 86 years old) receiving IV diclofenac, the terminal half-life was 1.4 hours for patients aged 65 to 74 years compared to 2.1 hours in patients 75 years of age and older. Clearance of diclofenac after IV administration was not affected by age.
Gender Differences
Systemic exposure of IV diclofenac was 30% higher in females compared to males, however, this may be due to the effect of body weight on clearance of diclofenac. After accounting for body weight, there was no difference in the pharmacokinetics of diclofenac with respect to gender.
Other
Pharmacokinetics of IV diclofenac appear to be dependent on body weight. In a study of 88 patients (53 to 156.2 kg) receiving IV diclofenac, the clearance of diclofenac was approximately 30% higher in patients with a body weight greater than 95 kg. Diclofenac clearance was 282 +/- 68 mL/minute in patients weighing less than 95 kg vs. 356 +/- 53 mL/minute in patients weighing more than 95 kg. The volume of distribution increased with increased body weight and the proportional increase in clearance resulted in no change in elimination half-life with increased body weight.
Store & manage your medication list
Medication pricing updates
Import medication from your pharmacy
Pill & refill reminders
Medication journal & mood log