Diclofenac 50mg Powder

Manufacturer TARO Active Ingredient Diclofenac Powder Packets(dye KLOE fen ak) Pronunciation dye KLOE fen ak
WARNING: This drug may raise the risk of heart and blood vessel problems like heart attack and stroke. These effects can be deadly. The risk may be greater if you have heart disease or risks for heart disease. However, it can also be raised even if you do not have heart disease or risks for heart disease. The risk can happen within the first weeks of using this drug and may be greater with higher doses or long-term use. Do not use this drug right before or after bypass heart surgery.This drug may raise the chance of severe and sometimes deadly stomach or bowel problems like ulcers or bleeding. The risk is greater in older people, and in people who have had stomach or bowel ulcers or bleeding before. These problems may occur without warning signs. @ COMMON USES: It is used to treat migraine headaches. It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
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Drug Class
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
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Pharmacologic Class
Cyclooxygenase (COX) Inhibitor
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Pregnancy Category
Category C (first and second trimesters); Category D (third trimester)
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FDA Approved
May 2009
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Diclofenac is a medicine called a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation. This specific form, a powder packet, is designed to dissolve in water and work quickly to treat acute migraine headaches.
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How to Use This Medicine

Taking Your Medication

To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. It's essential to follow the instructions carefully. If you take this medication with food, its effectiveness may be reduced, so discuss this with your doctor.

To prepare the medication, empty the contents of the packet into 2 to 4 tablespoons (30 to 60 mL) of water, mix well, and consume it immediately.

Storing and Disposing of Your Medication

Store this medication at room temperature in a dry place, avoiding storage in a bathroom.

Missing a Dose

Since only one dose of this medication is required, if you miss your dose, take it as soon as you remember.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • Take exactly as prescribed, usually dissolved in 1 to 2 ounces of water.
  • Take on an empty stomach for best absorption and fastest relief of migraine.
  • Do not take more than one dose in a 24-hour period.
  • Do not use for more than 5 migraine attacks in a 30-day period without consulting your doctor.
  • Avoid alcohol, as it can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
  • Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, especially blood thinners, other NSAIDs, or diuretics.
  • Stay hydrated, especially if you have kidney problems.

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: 50 mg as a single dose, dissolved in 1 to 2 ounces (30 to 60 mL) of water
Dose Range: 50 - 50 mg

Condition-Specific Dosing:

acute_migraine: 50 mg as a single dose. Do not take a second dose on the same day. The safety of treating more than 5 migraine attacks in a 30-day period has not been established.
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established
Infant: Not established
Child: Not established
Adolescent: Not established
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: No specific dose adjustment recommended, but monitor renal function.
Moderate: Use with caution; monitor renal function closely. Avoid if possible.
Severe: Contraindicated in patients with advanced renal disease.
Dialysis: Contraindicated in patients with advanced renal disease. Diclofenac is not significantly removed by hemodialysis.

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: No specific dose adjustment recommended, but monitor liver function.
Moderate: Use with caution; monitor liver function closely. Avoid if possible.
Severe: Contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that exhibits anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic activities. Its mechanism of action, like that of other NSAIDs, is believed to be due to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, primarily through the inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes. For migraine, it is thought to act by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis in the central and peripheral nervous systems, reducing inflammation and pain signaling.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: Approximately 50% (due to first-pass metabolism)
Tmax: Approximately 15-30 minutes (for powder packets, faster than tablets)
FoodEffect: Food may decrease the rate and extent of absorption, leading to a delayed and lower peak concentration. It is recommended to take on an empty stomach for acute migraine treatment.

Distribution:

Vd: Approximately 0.12-0.17 L/kg
ProteinBinding: Greater than 99% (primarily to albumin)
CnssPenetration: Limited, but sufficient to exert central effects

Elimination:

HalfLife: Approximately 1-2 hours (terminal half-life of parent drug)
Clearance: Approximately 263 mL/min
ExcretionRoute: Renal (approximately 60% as metabolites), Biliary/Fecal (approximately 35% as metabolites)
Unchanged: Less than 1% (renal)
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Approximately 15-30 minutes (for pain relief)
PeakEffect: Approximately 1-2 hours
DurationOfAction: Approximately 4-6 hours

Safety & Warnings

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BLACK BOX WARNING

CARDIOVASCULAR THROMBOTIC EVENTS: NSAIDs cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may occur early in treatment and may increase with duration of use. Diclofenac is contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. GASTROINTESTINAL RISK: NSAIDs cause an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms. Elderly patients and patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding are at greater risk for serious GI events.
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Side Effects

Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away

Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:

Allergic Reaction: Rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever, wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Bleeding: Vomiting or coughing up blood, vomit that resembles coffee grounds, blood in the urine, black, red, or tarry stools, bleeding from the gums, abnormal vaginal bleeding, unexplained bruises or bruises that enlarge, or uncontrollable bleeding.
Kidney Problems: Inability to urinate, changes in urine output, blood in the urine, or sudden weight gain.
High Potassium Levels: Abnormal heartbeat, confusion, weakness, lightheadedness, dizziness, feeling faint, numbness or tingling, or shortness of breath.
High Blood Pressure: Severe headache or dizziness, fainting, or changes in vision.
Respiratory Issues: Shortness of breath, sudden weight gain, or swelling in the arms or legs.
Cardiovascular Problems: Chest pain or pressure, rapid heartbeat, or weakness on one side of the body.
Neurological Symptoms: Difficulty speaking or thinking, balance changes, drooping on one side of the face, or blurred vision.
Extreme Fatigue: Feeling very tired or weak.
Urinary Problems: Pain while urinating or blood in the urine.
Liver Damage: Dark urine, fatigue, decreased appetite, stomach pain or upset, light-colored stools, vomiting, or yellow skin and eyes. (Note: Liver problems can be fatal and require immediate medical attention.)
Severe Skin Reactions: Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and other serious reactions, which can be life-threatening. Seek medical help right away if you experience red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; red or irritated eyes; sores in the mouth, throat, nose, eyes, genitals, or skin; fever; chills; body aches; shortness of breath; or swollen glands.

Other Possible Side Effects

While many people may not experience side effects or only have mild ones, it's essential to be aware of the following:

Constipation, diarrhea, stomach pain, upset stomach, or vomiting
Heartburn
Gas
Dizziness or drowsiness
Headache
Excessive sweating
* Common cold symptoms

If any of these side effects or other symptoms bother you or persist, contact your doctor for guidance. Remember, this is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have concerns, consult your doctor.

Reporting Side Effects

You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch. Your doctor can also provide medical advice on managing side effects.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Severe stomach pain, black or tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds (signs of stomach bleeding)
  • Chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, slurred speech (signs of heart attack or stroke)
  • Swelling in your ankles or feet, decreased urination (signs of kidney problems)
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, persistent nausea/vomiting, unusual fatigue (signs of liver problems)
  • Sudden rash, hives, swelling of face/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing (signs of allergic reaction)
  • Unexplained weight gain
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Before Using This Medicine

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe treatment:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Describe the allergic reaction and its symptoms.
Allergies to aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen.
A history of asthma triggered by salicylate medications, such as aspirin, or NSAIDs.
Certain health conditions, including:
+ Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding or kidney problems.
+ Heart failure (weak heart) or a recent heart attack.
Concurrent use of other NSAIDs, salicylate medications like aspirin, or pemetrexed.
Difficulty getting pregnant or ongoing fertility evaluation.
* Pregnancy, planned pregnancy, or pregnancy during treatment. This medication may harm an unborn baby if taken after 20 weeks of gestation. If you are between 20 and 30 weeks pregnant, only take this medication under your doctor's guidance. Do not take this medication if you are more than 30 weeks pregnant.

To ensure your safety, it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. Verify that it is safe to take this medication with your existing treatments and health issues. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without consulting your doctor.
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Precautions & Cautions

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. If you are taking this drug for an extended period, your doctor may recommend regular blood tests to monitor your condition.

As this medication can increase blood pressure, it is crucial to have your blood pressure checked regularly, as advised by your doctor. Additionally, discuss your alcohol consumption with your doctor, as it may interact with this medication. If you smoke, talk to your doctor about the potential risks. Individuals with asthma should also consult their doctor, as they may be more sensitive to this drug.

To minimize the risk of severe side effects, do not exceed the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Taking more than the recommended amount can increase the risk of adverse reactions. Furthermore, do not take this medication for longer than the duration specified by your doctor.

As this medication can affect blood clotting, you may be more prone to bleeding. To reduce the risk of injury, be cautious and use a soft toothbrush and an electric razor.

The use of this medication can increase the risk of heart failure, particularly in individuals with pre-existing heart failure. This may lead to a higher risk of heart attack, hospitalization for heart failure, and death. Discuss these risks with your doctor. Additionally, individuals who have recently experienced a heart attack may be at a higher risk of heart attack and heart-related death when taking this medication. In fact, studies have shown that people taking this type of medication after a first heart attack were more likely to die within a year compared to those not taking this medication.

If you are taking aspirin to prevent a heart attack, consult your doctor to discuss potential interactions. Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) should also talk to their doctor, as some products contain phenylalanine. If you are 65 or older, use this medication with caution, as you may be more susceptible to side effects.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like this medication may affect ovulation, potentially impacting fertility. However, this effect is reversible when the medication is stopped. Discuss this with your doctor if you are trying to conceive. Finally, if you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor to discuss any potential risks to your baby.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Lethargy
  • Drowsiness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Epigastric pain
  • Gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Rarely: hypertension, acute renal failure, respiratory depression, coma

What to Do:

There is no specific antidote. Management is symptomatic and supportive. Consider activated charcoal if ingested within 1 hour. Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control Center) immediately.

Drug Interactions

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Contraindicated Interactions

  • Aspirin (concomitant use increases risk of GI bleeding)
  • Other NSAIDs (concomitant use increases risk of adverse effects)
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Major Interactions

  • Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin, Heparin, DOACs): Increased risk of bleeding
  • Antiplatelet agents (e.g., Clopidogrel): Increased risk of bleeding
  • SSRIs/SNRIs: Increased risk of GI bleeding
  • Lithium: Increased lithium levels and toxicity
  • Methotrexate: Increased methotrexate levels and toxicity
  • Cyclosporine: Increased nephrotoxicity
  • Tacrolimus: Increased nephrotoxicity
  • Diuretics (e.g., Furosemide, Thiazides): Reduced diuretic and antihypertensive effects, increased risk of renal impairment
  • ACE Inhibitors/ARBs: Reduced antihypertensive effects, increased risk of renal impairment
  • Corticosteroids: Increased risk of GI ulceration and bleeding
  • Pemetrexed: Increased pemetrexed levels and toxicity (avoid in patients with renal impairment)
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Moderate Interactions

  • Digoxin: Increased digoxin levels
  • Beta-blockers: Reduced antihypertensive effects
  • Phenytoin: Increased phenytoin levels
  • Oral hypoglycemics: Potential for altered glycemic control
  • Cholestyramine/Colestipol: May reduce diclofenac absorption (administer diclofenac 1 hour before or 4-6 hours after)
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Minor Interactions

  • Not specifically categorized as minor for this drug, but general caution with other nephrotoxic or hepatotoxic agents.

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Renal function (BUN, Creatinine)

Rationale: To establish baseline and identify pre-existing renal impairment, as NSAIDs can cause renal dysfunction.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

Liver function tests (ALT, AST)

Rationale: To establish baseline and identify pre-existing hepatic impairment, as NSAIDs can cause liver injury.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

Blood pressure

Rationale: NSAIDs can cause new onset hypertension or worsen pre-existing hypertension.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

Rationale: To establish baseline and monitor for anemia or other hematologic abnormalities, especially with long-term use.

Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy (if long-term use is anticipated).

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Routine Monitoring

Blood pressure

Frequency: Periodically during treatment, especially in hypertensive patients.

Target: Individualized based on patient's target BP.

Action Threshold: If significant increase or uncontrolled hypertension, consider dose adjustment or discontinuation.

Renal function (BUN, Creatinine)

Frequency: Periodically, especially in patients at risk for renal impairment (e.g., elderly, heart failure, diuretic use, pre-existing renal disease).

Target: Within normal limits or stable from baseline.

Action Threshold: Significant increase in creatinine or BUN, or decrease in urine output, warrants discontinuation or dose reduction.

Liver function tests (ALT, AST)

Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged use or in patients with pre-existing liver disease.

Target: Within normal limits or stable from baseline.

Action Threshold: Significant elevation (e.g., >3x ULN) warrants discontinuation.

Signs/symptoms of GI bleeding

Frequency: Continuously, patient education is key.

Target: Absence of symptoms.

Action Threshold: Black, tarry stools; coffee-ground emesis; severe abdominal pain; unexplained fatigue/weakness warrants immediate medical attention.

Signs/symptoms of cardiovascular events

Frequency: Continuously, patient education is key.

Target: Absence of symptoms.

Action Threshold: Chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech warrants immediate medical attention.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Signs of gastrointestinal bleeding (black, tarry stools; coffee-ground vomit; severe abdominal pain)
  • Symptoms of cardiovascular events (chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden weakness or numbness, slurred speech)
  • Signs of renal dysfunction (decreased urine output, swelling in ankles/feet, unusual fatigue)
  • Symptoms of liver injury (yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, persistent nausea/vomiting, unusual fatigue, right upper quadrant pain)
  • Signs of allergic reaction (rash, itching, hives, swelling of face/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing)
  • Unusual weight gain or swelling (fluid retention)
  • Changes in vision or hearing (rare, but reported with NSAIDs)

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Use should be avoided in the third trimester due to potential for premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus and renal dysfunction. Use in the first and second trimesters should only be if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Limited data, but potential for increased risk of miscarriage and cardiac malformations. Use only if clearly needed.
Second Trimester: Limited data, but potential for renal dysfunction in the fetus leading to oligohydramnios. Use only if clearly needed.
Third Trimester: Contraindicated due to risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus, persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn, and renal dysfunction in the fetus.
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Lactation

Diclofenac is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but caution is advised. Monitor infant for adverse effects.

Infant Risk: Low risk of adverse effects, but theoretical risk of GI or renal effects. Monitor for irritability, poor feeding, or unusual drowsiness.
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Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established for Diclofenac Powder Packets for migraine. Use in children is generally not recommended.

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Geriatric Use

Elderly patients are at greater risk for serious adverse events from NSAIDs, including gastrointestinal bleeding, cardiovascular events, and renal impairment. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Monitor closely for adverse effects.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Diclofenac powder packets (e.g., Cambia) are specifically formulated for rapid absorption, making them suitable for acute migraine treatment.
  • Always instruct patients to dissolve the powder completely in water before ingestion.
  • Taking it on an empty stomach is crucial for optimal and rapid migraine relief.
  • Emphasize the 'one dose per day' rule and the limit of 5 doses per month for migraine treatment.
  • Educate patients thoroughly on the black box warnings for cardiovascular and GI risks, and symptoms to watch for.
  • Consider alternative pain relief options for patients with significant cardiovascular, renal, or GI risk factors.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib)
  • Triptans (e.g., sumatriptan, zolmitriptan) for migraine
  • CGRP inhibitors (e.g., ubrogepant, rimegepant) for migraine
  • Acetaminophen
  • Opioid analgesics (generally avoided for migraine due to abuse potential and side effects)
  • Non-pharmacological treatments for migraine (e.g., rest in a dark, quiet room, cold compress)
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: Not available Not available
Generic Available: Yes
Insurance Coverage: Tier 2 or 3 (for brand), Tier 1 (for generic)
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General Drug Facts

If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure safe use, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. This medication is accompanied by a Medication Guide, which provides crucial information for patients. Please read this guide carefully and review it again whenever you receive a refill of this medication. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, consult your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When reporting the incident, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the quantity, and the time it occurred.