Diclofenac Sodium Viatris (formerly Fenac) (Diclofenac Sodium)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Diclofenac Sodium Viatris (formerly Fenac) Used For?
Diclofenac Sodium Viatris is a medication that helps relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Primary Uses
It is used to treat various types of arthritis, painful conditions involving swelling, menstrual cramps, and post-operative pain in children.
How It Works
Diclofenac Sodium Viatris works by blocking substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation.
Good to know: Diclofenac Sodium Viatris is not considered addictive.
Continue Reading
Sign in to access the complete medication guide including dosage, side effects, warnings, and more.
How to Take Diclofenac Sodium Viatris (formerly Fenac)
This medication should be taken as directed by your doctor, typically before meals or on an empty stomach.
Dosage Instructions
For arthritis or painful conditions, the usual starting dose is 75 mg to 150 mg daily, which may be reduced to 75 mg to 100 mg after initial treatment. For menstrual cramps, start with 50 mg to 100 mg as soon as cramps begin, not exceeding 200 mg per day.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Indigestion
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Drowsiness
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Severe stomach pain or tenderness
- Vomiting blood
- Black or bloody stools
- Skin rash or hives
- Shortness of breath
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Unusual tiredness
- Chest pain
Impulse Control Issues
No specific information about impulse control issues was mentioned.
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations before taking Diclofenac Sodium Viatris.
Who Should Not Take Diclofenac Sodium Viatris (formerly Fenac)
Do not take if you are allergic to diclofenac or other NSAIDs, have a history of stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders, severe heart failure, or are in the last three months of pregnancy.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney or liver issues, gastrointestinal problems, asthma, or are dehydrated.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Diclofenac Sodium Viatris is not recommended during the first six months of pregnancy and must not be used in the last three months. It may affect fertility and is not advised while breastfeeding.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of Diclofenac Sodium Viatris.
Drug Interactions
Diclofenac Sodium Viatris may interact with other medications.
Grapefruit interaction: No specific grapefruit interaction mentioned.
- Aspirin and other NSAIDs
- Warfarin and other blood thinners
- Digoxin
- Lithium
- Diuretics
- ACE inhibitors or beta-blockers
- Corticosteroids
- Methotrexate
- Ciclosporin
- Trimethoprim
- Quinolone antibacterials
- Glucocorticoids
- Voriconazole
- Phenytoin
- Rifampicin
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious when consuming alcohol and operating machinery while taking this medication.
Alcohol
Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach problems when taking Diclofenac Sodium Viatris.
Driving and Operating Machinery
This medication may cause dizziness or drowsiness; avoid driving if affected.
Temperature Regulation
No specific temperature regulation warnings mentioned.
Storage
Store Diclofenac Sodium Viatris in its original packaging in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from moisture and out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 immediately. Symptoms may include vomiting, stomach bleeding, dizziness, or convulsions.
Frequently Asked Questions
It usually begins to work within a few hours, but full effects may take several weeks.
You can take it with food if it upsets your stomach, but it works faster on an empty stomach.
No, it is not considered addictive.
Consult your doctor for guidance on discontinuing this medication.
It's advisable to limit alcohol intake as it may increase the risk of stomach issues.
Weight gain is not commonly reported but consult your doctor if you have concerns.
Elderly patients should use caution and may require lower doses.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it's close to your next dose; do not double up.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.