Zorvolex (generic name, diclofenac) is a pain reliever that is classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by reducing the body’s production of substances that cause inflammation and pain. Two common forms are in 18mg and 35mg.

What Is It Used For?

Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to reduce inflammation, swelling and pain due to various conditions. It contains this active ingredient, and it is often used for treating backaches, muscle aches, arthritis, dental pain, sports injuries, andmenstrual cramps. By reducing pain and swelling, the drug helps you to continue with your daily activities.

How to Take Zorvolex

Before using the drug, read the label and Medication Guide. Ask your doctor/pharmacist about any questions you may have.

35mg and 18mg is taken by mouth, preferably with a glass of water (8 ounces). It is best to take with milk, food, or antacid and to avoid lying down for at least ten minutes after ingestion to prevent having a stomach upset.

Although there are various brands of diclofenac, it is best not to switch brands without asking your doctor first, because they may have different dosages and preparations. It is also best to tell your doctor/pharmacist about other drugs (prescription or nonprescription) and supplements you are taking to prevent drug interactions.

Use the drug only as directed, at the lowest dose and duration that is effective for your condition to minimize risks of side effect risks. Avoid increasing your dose or taking it more often than instructed. Ask your doctor/pharmacist about the benefits and risks of taking the drug for chronic conditions like arthritis, since it may take longer (about two weeks) for the drug to take full effect.

Dosage:

• If you are using 35mg only "as needed" (not regularly), it will work best if you take it as soon as the first sign of pain occurs. It may not work as well if you wait till the pain worsens. Consult your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.
• For acute pain that is mild to moderate, you can take 18mg to 35mg orally, three times a day. For treating osteoarthritis pain, take 35 mg three times daily.

Missed Dose and Overdose:

• If you miss a dose, take one tablet as soon as you remember. However, if it’s near the next dose, just skip the dose and continue with your usual schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose. 
• If you suspect an overdose, contact your local poison control center or immediately go to the emergency room. Symptoms of overdose include the following: severe stomach ache, vomit with coffee ground appearance, extreme drowsiness, shallow/slow breathing, and seizures.

Zorvolex Side Effects

Some side effects do not need any treatment. They may disappear as your body gets used to your medication but if they persist, you should call your doctor. These commonly include:

• Abdominal burning, cramping or bloating
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Headache

Consult your doctor immediately if any of these side effects occur:

• Loss of strength
• Swelling of the hands or feet (edema)
• Bloody/black or tarry stools
• Ringing/buzzing in the ear
• Hearing loss
• Cloudy urine
• Decreased urine output
• Itchy skin/rash
• Loss of appetite
• Chest pain
• Severe stomach pain
• Pale skin
• Trouble breathing
• Unusual bleeding/bruising
• Tiredness/weakness
• Weight loss

Get immediate emergency help when symptoms of overdose occur:

• Agitation
• Blurring of vision
• Changes in or loss of consciousness
• Vision changes
• Confusion
• Depression
• Hostility
• Hives
• Irregular breathing
• Irritability
• Nervousness
• Muscle twitching
• Chest pain/discomfort/tightness
• Puffiness of the eyelids, swelling around eyes, lips, face, or tongue
• Vomit with blood or coffee ground material
• Seizures
• Sleepiness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Stupor
• Unusual drowsiness
• Trouble sleeping

Zorvolex Precautions

Drug-drug interactions may occur and affect how your different medications work. These can also increase your risk of developing serious side effects. Tell your doctor/pharmacist about all the drugs and supplements you use. However, do not stop or change your medicines without asking your doctor first.

Some drugs that may interact with the drug include:

• ACE inhibitors (captopril, lisinopril)
• Angiotensin II receptor blockers (losartan, valsartan)
• Lithium
• Cidofovir
• Methotrexate
• Diuretics (furosemide)
• Corticosteroids (prednisone)

The drug may increase your risk of bleeding when it is taken with anti-platelet drugs (like clopidogrel) and "blood thinners" (like dabigatran, enoxaparin, or warfarin).

Taking the drug with other medications that contain pain relievers (aspirin, NSAIDs) may increase the risk of side effects. However, if you are taking low-dose aspirin (81-325 milligrams) daily to prevent stroke or heart attack, continue taking aspirin unless instructed by your doctor to do otherwise.