A recent major study done by the British Medical Journal shows that Diclofenac can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke by 50%.

Diclofenac is a common painkiller and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It goes by the brand names Voltaren (known as Voltarol in the UK) Cambia, Dyloject, Cataflam and Zipsor. According to the BMJ, “Diclofenac poses a cardiovascular health risk compared with non-use, paracetamol use, and use of other traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.” They also reported that “The adverse event rate among diclofenac initiators increased by 50% compared with non-initiators.” They concluded that Diclofenac poses a great cardiovascular health risk.

Diclofenac has also been shown to cause heart failure, irregular heartbeat, and high blood pressure. The painkiller is the most widely used NSAID in the world and is commonly prescribed in the UK. It can often be found over-the-counter in most countries. It is also common in the United States and is often prescribed as Cataflam for menstrual cramps.

Diclofenac Side Effects:

• Nausea and vomiting, and stomach ache
• Headaches
• Drowsiness
• Titanus
• Heart Attack
• Stroke
• Stomach bleeding
• Liver and kidney problems
• High Blood Pressure
• Low red blood cells (anemia)

The FDA has also been aware of NSAID’s like Diclofenac, and their heart risks. In 2015 the FDA warned that NSAID painkillers increased the risk of heart attack and stroke. The FDA further strengthened its warning by requiring updated labels to all NSAID prescriptions. Their report continued to state that “The risk of heart attack or stroke can occur as early as the first weeks of using an NSAID. The risk may increase with longer use of the NSAID.”

Diclofenac Is Often Used To Treat:

• Toothache
• Back and body pain
• Migraine
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Osteoarthritis and Gout
• Muscle sprains
• Menstrual cramps (Cataflam)

It is important to take NSAID’s safely and to know the risks. If you experience serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately. You can also report side effects to the FDA MedWatch program.