Cataflam
Generic Name:
Diclofenac
Brand Names:
Cambia, Cataflam, Voltaren, Voltaren-XR, Zipsor
Cataflam Description:
Cataflam is the trade name for diclofenac potassium, marketed by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Cataflam is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used in the treatment of mild to moderate pain. It is used in helping to relieve arthritis and the inflammation associated with it. It is also useful in relieving pain and discomfort associated with stiffness and joint pain. This medication is not a cure for arthritis and only provides relief while the drug is being used.
Cataflam Uses:
Cataflam is used to treat the pain and swelling associated with various mild to moderate conditions, especially the pain and joint stiffness caused by arthritis.
Cataflam is also prescribed for ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that attacks the joints in the spine.
Menstrual cramps are also treated with this medication, as well as migraines. The number of migraine attacks are not prevented or reduced, but their intensity is lessened.
Cataflam Interactions:
Aspirin
Cataflam, like other NSAID medications, causes protein binding to be reduced when used with aspirin. Though the significance of this interaction is not known, it is generally recommended not to use these two drugs together because of the potential of increased adverse effects.
Methotrexate
NSAIDs like Cataflam have shown to create an abnormal accumulation of methotrexate when used together, creating a concern for dangerous toxicity levels of methotrexate.
Cyclosporine
NSAIDs like Cataflam may cause a potentially danger toxicity of kidney hormones (renal prostaglandins) when used alongside cyclosporine.
ACE Inhibitors
NSAIDs like Cataflam may diminish the antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors.
Warfarin
The effects of warfarin and NSAIDs like Cataflam on gastrointestinal bleeding are synergistic, such that users of the combination of both drugs have a higher risk of serious gastrointestinal bleeding than users of either drug alone.
Other Drugs
Some drugs may be used in addition to Cataflam, but it is not usually recommended. If one of the following medications is prescribed with Cataflam, your doctor may decide to change the dose or how often you take one or both of the medications:
- Ardeparin
- Beta glucan
- Certoparin
- Dalteparin
- Danaparoid
- Enoxaparin
- Ginkgo
- Methotrexate
- Nadroparin
- Parnaparin
- Pemetrexed
- Reviparin
- Tacrolimus
- Tinzaparin
Cataflam Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendation:
Cataflam is available in several dosing forms, including a coated tablet, an extended-release tablet, powder for solution, and a liquid-filled capsule.
When taken for severe arthritis, Cataflam must be taken every day in order to help the condition. The medication may not begin working immediately, but the full effects can be felt after one week. In severe cases, it can take anywhere from two weeks or more for the medication to start working. Several weeks could pass before the full effects are felt.
For oral solution use, the packet contents are mixed with 1 or 2 ounces of water. No other liquid should be used to create the solution.
Actual dosing varies based on the patient’s needs, but the following should be noted:
- For ankylosing spondylitis, the dose is 25 mg taken four times per day, with an extra 25 mg taken at bedtime if needed.
- For osteoarthritis, the dose is 50 mg taken two to three times per day, or 75 mg taken twice per day.
- For adults with rheumatoid arthritis, the dose is 50 mg taken three to four times per day, or 75 mg taken twice per day.
- For adults with migraine headaches, the dose is 50 mg taken as a single dose per day.
- Doses for children must be determined by a doctor.
Missing a Dose:
Do not take a double dose of Cataflam to regain your regular dosing schedule. Take a missed dose immediately, or if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule.
Overdosing:
If overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms of Cataflam overdose include:
- Agitation
- Blurred vision
- Change in the ability to see colors, especially blue or yellow
- Change in consciousness
- Confusion
- Depression
- Difficult or troubled breathing
- Hives
- Hostility
- Insomnia
- Irregular, fast, slow, or shallow breathing
- Irritability
- Loss of consciousness
- Muscle twitching
- Nervousness
- Pain or discomfort in the chest, upper stomach, or throat
- Pale or blue lips, fingernails, or skin
- Puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
- Rapid weight gain
- Seizures
- Shortness of breath
- Sleepiness
- Slow or fast heartbeat
- Stupor
- Swelling of the face, ankles, or hands
- Tightness in the chest
- Unusual drowsiness, dullness, or feeling of sluggishness
- Wheezing
Cataflam FDA Approval:
November 24, 1993
Cataflam Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
Cardiovascular Risk
NSAIDs such as Cataflam may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, heart attack (myocardial infarction), and stroke (cerebrovascular accident), which can be fatal. The risk may increase with duration of use. Patients with cardiovascular disease or risk factors for cardiovascular disease may be at greater risk.
Gastrointestinal Risk
NSAIDs such as Cataflam increase the risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse reactions which include inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines. These reactions could be fatal and could occur at any time during use without warning symptoms. Elderly patients are at greater risk for serious gastrointestinal events.
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July 30, 2010, 2:23 pm
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