Diclofenac+acetaminophen
About Diclofenac+acetaminophen
Acetaminophen+diclofenac belongs to a class of medications known as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) or pain killer. Acetaminophen+diclofenac is primarily indicated for relieving pain associated with bones and muscles like osteoarthritis (joints pain), sprains and strains of muscles, rheumatoid arthritis (pain, swelling, and stiffness of joints) and ankylosing spondylitis (inflammation of the spine). This medicine also provides relief in pain associated with back pain, toothache, rheumatoid arthritis, painful menses, mild migraine, etc. Pain is an uncomfortable feeling in the body that can range from annoying to severe.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac contains Diclofenac (analgesic) and Acetaminophen (fever reducer/mild analgesic) effective against painful musculoskeletal pain, joint pain, and skeletal muscle spasms. Diclofenac works by blocking the action of a chemical messenger known as cyclo-oxygenase (COX) which causes pain and swelling at the injured or damaged tissue site. On the other hand, Acetaminophen acts as a mild analgesic (mild pain reducer) and antipyretic (fever reducer), which enhances the pain relief action of Diclofenac. Both medicines in combination work well to provide relief pain in different conditions.
Take Acetaminophen+diclofenac as prescribed by your doctor. You are advised to take Acetaminophen+diclofenac for as long as your doctor has prescribed it for you depending on your medical condition. Like all medicines, Acetaminophen+diclofenac may cause common side effects like stomach upset, dizziness, light-headedness, malaise, nausea, vomiting and liver dysfunction (hepatitis), pruritis (itchy skin), rash, although not everybody gets them. Stop taking this medicine if you experience symptoms like the tightness of the chest, breathing difficulties, fever, skin rashes, increased heart rate and or in case of any signs of hypersensitivity.
Do not take Acetaminophen+diclofenac if you are allergic to painkillers like aspirin, acetaminophen, naproxen or diclofenac. It is not recommended for use in children less than 14 years of age, people with liver disease, heart disease or gastric ulcers/bleeding problems. Acetaminophen+diclofenac may be associated with a small increase in the risk of heart attack (myocardial infarction). Pregnant women should not take this medicine during their last trimester of pregnancy. Acetaminophen+diclofenac is excreted in the breast milk so the nursing mother should contact the doctor before its usage. Avoid consumption of alcohol as it may damage your liver and cause even more side effects from taking this drug.
Uses of Diclofenac+acetaminophen
Medicinal Benefits
Acetaminophen+diclofenac is a combination medicine used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, muscle pain, tooth pain, bone and joint pain, headache, swelling, period pain, ear pain, migraine, fever, sore throat, nose pain, etc. By reducing the pain, Acetaminophen+diclofenac helps you to do normal daily activities of the day. Diclofenac present in Acetaminophen+diclofenac works by reducing the chemical messenger that is responsible for pain and inflammation in the body. While Acetaminophen works by blocking chemical messenger that sends pain signals to the brain. This medicine also reduces fever by regulating body temperature. Both medicines in combination increase the pain threshold and blood flow across the skin and provide relief in various painful conditions.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Diclofenac+acetaminophen
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhoea
- Indigestion
- Headache
Drug Warnings
Do not take Acetaminophen+diclofenac if you have/had severe heart problems, stomach ulcer or perforation, bleeding problems such as bleeding from the stomach, intestine or brain, have undergone any heart bypass surgery, have had any heart attack, blood circulation problems or inflammation of intestines. Patients with asthma, prolonged bleeding time, wheezing (whistling sound during breath) and blocked airways (bronchospasm) should avoid using Acetaminophen+diclofenac. Consult your doctor if your symptoms of pain, inflammation and fever do not disappear even after ten days. If you are using topical form Acetaminophen+diclofenac you should avoid direct exposure to the sunlight as sunburn or photosensitivity might occur. Keep your doctor informed about your health condition and medicines to rule out any side-effects. Avoid simultaneous consumption of other painkillers or cough and cold medicines with this Acetaminophen+diclofenac as it may lead to overdose. Stop taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac and consult your doctor immediately if you have stomach pain or any signs of bleeding in the intestine or stomach such as blood in stools. Do not take any other NSAID's for pain relief along with Acetaminophen+diclofenac unless prescribed.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Acetaminophen+diclofenac may have interaction with pain killers (aspirin, ibuprofen), immunosuppressant (cyclosporine, tacrolimus), anti-psychotic (lithium), cardiac glycoside (digoxin), blood thinner (warfarin), anti-rheumatoid (methotrexate), antacid (magnesium hydroxide), anti-fungal (ketoconazole, miconazole, fluconazole, voriconazole), anti-arrhythmic (amiodarone), anti-gout (sulphinpyrazole), anti-emetic (metoclopramide, domperidone), bile acid sequestrant (cholestyramine), anti-cancer (imatinib), antibiotic (chloramphenicol), anti-progestational steroid (mifepristone), anti-diabetics, diuretics, anti-hypertensives medicines.
Drug-Food Interactions: Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac as it might cause increased dizziness and risk of stomach bleeding.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Acetaminophen+diclofenac may worsen the symptoms in people with stomach ulcer or perforation, bleeding problems, bypass surgery, heart attack, blood circulation problems, inflammation of intestines, anemia, heart, kidney and liver problems.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
unsafeAvoid consumption of alcohol while taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac as it may increase drowsiness. It can also increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
Pregnancy
cautionAvoid taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac if you are pregnant unless prescribed by a doctor. Please consult your doctor if you have any concerns regarding this, your doctor will prescribe only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast Feeding
cautionConsult your doctor before taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac, your doctor will decide whether Acetaminophen+diclofenac can be taken by breastfeeding mothers or not.
Driving
cautionAcetaminophen+diclofenac may affect driving ability as it causes headaches, blurred vision, dizziness or drowsiness so do not drive or operate machinery unless you are alert.
Liver
cautionDose adjustment may be needed in patients with liver impairment. Please consult your doctor if you have a liver impairment or any concerns regarding this.
Kidney
cautionDose adjustment may be needed in patients with kidney impairment. Please consult your doctor if you have kidney impairment or any concerns regarding this.
Children
unsafeAcetaminophen+diclofenac is not recommended for children below 12 years of age without the doctor's consent. For children above 12 years, the dose needs to be adjusted and recommended by a child specialist only.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Exercising regularly helps in muscle stretching so that they are less likely to spasm, tear and sprain. Mild exercises such as jogging and walking are helpful for muscle stretching.
- Massages can also be helpful.
- Avoid freezing and hot temperatures.
- Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes, instead, wear loose garments.
- Rest well, get plenty of sleep.
- To avoid developing pressure sores, change your position at least every two hours.
- Hot or cold therapy can help treat muscle spasms. Apply an ice-pack or hot-pack on the muscle for 15-20 minutes.
- Stay hydrated, drink plenty of water.
Special Advise
- Prolonged use of Acetaminophen+diclofenac may increase the risk of heart diseases. So if you have any heart problems or have undergone any planned heart bypass surgery, please do not take Acetaminophen+diclofenac and consult a doctor.
- If you have had a gastrointestinal ulcer or bleeding problem, do not take Acetaminophen+diclofenac.
- Acetaminophen+diclofenac should not be given to the children less than 10 years of age.
- Close monitoring of infections as Acetaminophen+diclofenac may mask the signs and symptoms of infection.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Pain: Pain is a symptom triggered by the nervous system, causing uncomfortable sensations in the body. Pain may be dull or sharp, it might be constant or may come and go. The tolerance level of pain might vary from person to person. Pain can be generalized (overall body aches) or localized (affecting a specific area of the body). Pain can be considered a good thing as it helps us know that something is wrong in the body and thereby helps diagnose the condition. The common causes of pain include headache, muscle strain, cramps, cuts, bone fractures, and arthritis.
Osteoarthritis: It is a joint disease in which the two ends of the joints come together due to the breakdown of a protective covering of cartilage. Due to the absence of this protective covering, the joints rub against each other, leading to pain and stiffness. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, inflammation, and tenderness.
Rheumatoid arthritis: It is an auto-immune disease (the body's immune system attacks its tissue), leading to joint pain and damage. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include pain, swelling, stiffness, deformities, and loss of joint function.
Ankylosing spondylitis: It causes pain and stiffness in the spine. The pain generally starts in the lower back and can spread to the neck, damaged joints, or other body parts. Ankylosing spondylitis includes decreased flexibility which usually leads to hunched-forward posture, pain, and back, and joints.
Migraine: A headache of varying intensity, often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.
FAQs
Acetaminophen+diclofenac is used to relieve pain in conditions like osteoarthritis, sprains and strains of muscles, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, back pain, toothache, painful menses, and mild migraine.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac should not be taken as a long term medication as it may lead to stomach ulcers/bleeding and kidney problems. For best results of Acetaminophen+diclofenac, take it in doses and duration mentioned by your doctor.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac is not indicated for stomach pain. Also, If you have stomach pain post-ingestion it may be a sign of stomach ulcer or gastric bleeding. Do not take Acetaminophen+diclofenac in this condition. It is better to inform your doctor in case of stomach pain.
It is advised not to take Acetaminophen+diclofenac until prescribed by your doctor.
Yes, Acetaminophen+diclofenac is a short term medication and if you feel better you can stop taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac, but only after consulting your doctor.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac is a combination of two drugs, namely: Diclofenac, and Acetaminophen. Diclofenac and Acetaminophen work by blocking the effect of a chemical messenger known as cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes that make another chemical prostaglandin (PG). By blocking the COX enzyme's effect, lesser PGs are produced, which reduces mild to moderate pain, fever and inflammation at the injured or damaged site.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac is used to reduce and relieve pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. Arthritis is the tenderness and swelling in the joints.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac should not be taken for longer durations unless prescribed by the doctor. If Acetaminophen+diclofenac has been prescribed for longer durations, regular monitoring of kidney function, liver function and blood count is advised, particularly in elderly patients.
Diarrhea might be a side-effect of Acetaminophen+diclofenac. Drink enough fluids and eat fiber rich food if you experience diarrhea. If you find blood in stools (tarry stools) or if you experience excess diarrhea consult your doctor. Do not take anti-diarrheal medicine on your own.
No, Acetaminophen+diclofenac is not used to treat migraine, it is used to decrease pain caused by mild migraine.
Before taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac, consult your doctor and share your medical history. Follow the recommended dosage and be mindful of potential interactions with other medications or health conditions. Be cautious if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have specific health concerns. Always prioritize your safety and well-being.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac should only be used in children with a doctor's guidance. It is generally not recommended for children under 12 years of age due to potential risks, such as kidney damage, stomach pain, and bleeding. Always consult a healthcare provider before giving Acetaminophen+diclofenac to children (over 12 years old), as the dose may need to be tailored based on the child's specific needs.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac is composed of diclofenac (an anti-inflammatory) and acetaminophen (a fever reducer/mild analgesic), which are primarily used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with bones and muscles.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac is generally safe when used as directed by your doctor, especially for short-term relief of pain associated with bones and muscles. However, it should be used with caution, as prolonged use or high doses may lead to liver damage, stomach ulcers, and bleeding. Please consult your doctor if you have concerns about the safety of Acetaminophen+diclofenac or need personalized advice.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac may cause mild side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, in some individuals. It contains a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (Diclofenac), which can irritate the stomach lining, leading to nausea or vomiting. To manage these side effects, take Acetaminophen+diclofenac with food or a full glass of water. If the nausea or vomiting is severe, please consult a doctor.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac may cause dizziness as a potential side effect in some individuals. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel dizzy after taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac. Usually, these effects fade away with time. If the dizziness persists or becomes severe, please consult your doctor, as they may adjust the dosage or recommend alternative treatments.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac may damage the kidneys if taken in high doses or for a prolonged period, especially if you have pre-existing kidney problems. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if overused, while diclofenac (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) can impair kidney function. Please consult your doctor before using Acetaminophen+diclofenac; they may adjust the dosage if necessary.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac has specific contraindications, including allergies to any ingredients or other NSAIDs, active stomach ulcers or bleeding, severe liver or kidney disease, severe heart conditions (history of heart attack or stroke), asthma, and recent heart bypass surgery. However, this is not an exhaustive list. It's essential to consult your doctor for full information and determine if this medication suits you. Your doctor will assess your individual circumstances and advise whether this medication is appropriate for your needs, ensuring safe and effective treatment.
Yes, Acetaminophen+diclofenac and Vitamin B-complex can generally be taken together, as no known major interactions exist between them. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac with supplements or other medications to ensure safety and avoid potential interactions.
No, taking a dose higher than the recommended dose of Acetaminophen+diclofenac is not safe. High doses of Acetaminophen+diclofenac may lead to liver damage (due to acetaminophen) and increase the risk of stomach bleeding and kidney damage (due to diclofenac). Always follow the dosing instructions and consult a doctor if you are unsure.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children.
If you have a peptic ulcer, you should avoid taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac, as it may irritate the stomach lining and worsen the ulcer (especially because of diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug [NSAID]). Please consult your healthcare provider before taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac to ensure it is appropriate for your condition.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac may cause common side effects such as stomach upset, dizziness, light-headedness, malaise, nausea, vomiting, liver dysfunction (hepatitis), pruritus (itchy skin), and rash. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if you experience these side effects persistently.
Avoid taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac during pregnancy unless prescribed by a doctor. In particular, diclofenac (one of its ingredients) is not recommended during the last trimester, as it may harm the baby. Please consult your doctor if you have any concerns regarding this. Your doctor will prescribe it only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
It is generally not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac. Both alcohol and Acetaminophen+diclofenac can strain the liver and increase the risk of liver damage or stomach bleeding. Drinking alcohol may also increase drowsiness, so do not drive or operate machinery unless you are fully alert. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice.
