diclofenac sodium + misoprostol at a glance
Medicine class
A non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) combined with a prostaglandin E1 analogue.
Licensed use
Symptom control in osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis where NSAID-related gastric and duodenal ulcer prophylaxis is particularly needed.
Administration
Take with food and swallow the modified-release tablet whole without chewing.
Pregnancy prevention
Do not use during pregnancy or when planning pregnancy. People who could become pregnant must use effective contraception.
What is diclofenac sodium + misoprostol used for?
Licensed for adults who require both diclofenac and misoprostol.
Symptomatic treatment of osteoarthritis.
Symptomatic treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
Prophylaxis of NSAID-induced gastric and duodenal ulceration when this protection is particularly needed.
How does diclofenac sodium + misoprostol work?
Diclofenac reduces pain and inflammation by inhibiting prostaglandin production. Misoprostol supports protective factors in the stomach and duodenal lining. It reduces ulcer risk but does not eliminate the possibility of serious gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation.
How to take diclofenac sodium + misoprostol
Follow the dispensing label and prescriber's instructions.
Take the tablet with food.
Swallow it whole with water; do not chew, crush or split it.
Do not add ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin for pain or another systemic NSAID unless specifically advised by a clinician.
Do not drive or operate machinery if it makes you dizzy or drowsy.
diclofenac sodium + misoprostol side effects
Common or expected effects
- Abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea or indigestion
- Vomiting, wind or constipation
- Headache or dizziness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Rash or itching
Get urgent medical advice
- Bleeding, ulceration or perforation of the stomach or bowel
- Heart attack, stroke or worsening heart failure
- Severe allergic reaction or NSAID-triggered asthma
- Severe blistering, peeling or widespread skin reaction
- Liver injury, including jaundice
- Acute kidney injury or markedly reduced urine
- Serious blood disorders with fever, sore throat, unusual bruising or bleeding
diclofenac sodium + misoprostol in pregnancy
This combination is contraindicated during pregnancy and when planning pregnancy. Misoprostol can cause uterine contractions, pregnancy loss, premature birth and fetal malformations; diclofenac also has pregnancy-related fetal risks. Pregnancy must be excluded before starting, and effective contraception is required for anyone who could become pregnant. Stop taking it and contact the prescriber promptly if pregnancy is suspected or exposure occurs.
diclofenac sodium + misoprostol while breastfeeding
Do not use this combination while breastfeeding. Active misoprostol metabolite enters breast milk and could cause diarrhoea in the infant. This differs from diclofenac-only preparations, which may sometimes be used after clinical assessment.
diclofenac sodium + misoprostol interactions
Check prescribed, pharmacy and complementary products with a clinician or pharmacist. Important interactions include:
Other NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, naproxen and COX-2 inhibitors
Combining systemic NSAIDs increases gastrointestinal ulceration, bleeding and other adverse effects.
Anticoagulants and antiplatelets
Bleeding risk may increase; closer clinical and, where relevant, anticoagulation monitoring is required.
Common questions about diclofenac sodium + misoprostol
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Why does this combination contain two active ingredients?
Diclofenac treats arthritis pain and inflammation, while misoprostol supports the stomach and duodenal lining in people needing protection from NSAID-induced ulcers.
Does it prevent every stomach ulcer?
No. Misoprostol lowers ulcer risk, but serious bleeding, ulceration or perforation can still occur, sometimes without warning.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.