Diclofenac 50mg Powder
Overview
What is this medicine?
How to Use This Medicine
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.
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.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
- Diclofenac Potassium 50mg Tablets
- Diclofenac Sod 0.1% Ophth Soln 5ml
- Diclofenac Sodium 75mg DR Tablets
- Diclofenac Sod 0.1% Ophth Sol 2.5ml
- Diclofenac Sodium 25mg DR Tablets
- Diclofenac Sodium 75mg DR Tablets
- Diclofenac Sodium 50mg DR Tablets
- Diclofenac Sodium 50mg DR Tablets
- Diclofenac 1.5% Topical Sol 150ml
- Diclofenac 3% Gel 100gm
- Diclofenac Sodium 100mg ER Tablets
- Diclofenac 75mg DR Tablets
- Diclofenac 1% Gel 100gm (rx)
- Diclofenac Epolamine 1.3% Top Patch
- Diclofenac 1% Gel 100gm (rx)
- Diclofenac 1% Gel 100gm (otc)
- Diclofenac 1% Gel 50gm (otc)
- Diclofenac 25mg Capsules
- Diclofenac 2% Topical Soln 112gm
- Diclofenac Potassium 25mg Tablets
- Diclofenac 25mg Capsules
- Diclofenac 50mg Powder
- Diclofenac 2% Topical Soln 112gm
- Diclofenac Sodium 25mg DR Tablets
- Diclofenac 2% Topical Soln 112gm
- Diclofenac Potassium 25mg Tablets
- Diclofenac 50mg Powder
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Condition-Specific Dosing:
Pediatric Dosing
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Hepatic Impairment:
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Distribution:
Elimination:
Pharmacodynamics
Safety & Warnings
BLACK BOX WARNING
Side Effects
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.
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
Before Using This Medicine
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.
Precautions & Cautions
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.
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
Contraindicated Interactions
- Aspirin (concomitant use increases risk of GI bleeding)
- Other NSAIDs (concomitant use increases risk of adverse effects)
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)
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)
Minor Interactions
- Not specifically categorized as minor for this drug, but general caution with other nephrotoxic or hepatotoxic agents.
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Rationale: To establish baseline and identify pre-existing renal impairment, as NSAIDs can cause renal dysfunction.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Rationale: To establish baseline and identify pre-existing hepatic impairment, as NSAIDs can cause liver injury.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
Rationale: NSAIDs can cause new onset hypertension or worsen pre-existing hypertension.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy.
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).
Routine Monitoring
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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:
Lactation
Diclofenac is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but caution is advised. Monitor infant for adverse effects.
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.
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
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.
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)