Acetaminophen+diclofenac
About Acetaminophen+diclofenac
Acetaminophen+diclofenac is an oral prescription medication used to relieve pain, swelling, and inflammation associated with various joint and muscle conditions. It is commonly prescribed to manage acute pain from injuries, dental procedures, and surgical recovery, as well as chronic pain from long-term joint issues. This medication combines two active pain relievers that target discomfort through different pathways in the body.
Your doctor will determine how often you should take Acetaminophen+diclofenac, but it is typically taken on a consistent schedule as long as pain and inflammation persist. To prevent stomach upset, always take this medication with food, milk, or immediately after a meal. Incorporating gentle, low-impact stretching and staying well-hydrated can also support your body’s natural recovery process during treatment.
While taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac, some people may experience mild side effects like nausea, indigestion, or dizziness. However, it's important to contact your doctor right away if you experience serious side effects, such as severe stomach pain, black or tarry stools, or yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Before starting this medication, talk to your doctor if you have a history of stomach ulcers, high blood pressure, asthma, or kidney or liver disease. Do not take this if you have active bleeding in your stomach or bowel, severe heart failure, or a history of allergic reactions to other pain relievers.
This medicine can interact with blood thinners, other pain medications, and blood pressure drugs, which may increase the risk of side effects like kidney irritation or stomach bleeding. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine, as it significantly raises the risk of severe liver damage and stomach bleeding. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, breastfeeding, or are an older adult, consult your doctor to ensure this medication is safe for you.
Uses of Acetaminophen+diclofenac
Medicinal Benefits
Acetaminophen+diclofenac helps relieve pain, swelling, and inflammation by combining two pain-relieving medicines that work through different mechanisms. It improves comfort, supports mobility, and helps you carry out your daily activities more easily.
Benefits may include:
- Helps relieve pain associated with arthritis, muscle injuries, dental procedures, and post-operative recovery.
- Reduces inflammation and swelling at the affected site to improve comfort.
- Helps ease joint stiffness and improve mobility, making daily activities easier.
- Provides effective pain relief through complementary mechanisms of action.
- Supports participation in physical therapy, rehabilitation, and appropriate low-impact exercise.
- Helps improve overall quality of life by reducing pain and restoring physical function.
Directions for Use
- Acetaminophen+diclofenac can be taken with food or as advised by your doctor.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions on the dosage and timing of this medication.
- Swallow Acetaminophen+diclofenac as a whole with a glass of water.
- Do not crush, break, or chew it.
Storage
Side Effects of Acetaminophen+diclofenac
Common Side Effects (Usually mild)
- Upset stomach, mild heartburn, or indigestion
- Nausea, vomiting, or mild loss of appetite
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or mild headache
- Mild diarrhea or constipation
Serious Side Effects (Call a doctor right away)
- Signs of stomach bleeding, such as vomiting blood, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, or black, tarry stools
- Signs of liver damage, including yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, persistent nausea, or severe fatigue
- Signs of kidney issues, such as a sudden change in the amount of urine, painful urination, or swelling in your feet and ankles
- Signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden weakness on one side of your body, or slurred speech
Medicines Containing this Salt
View AllDrug Warnings
- Do not take Acetaminophen+diclofenac: Avoid taking this medicine if you are allergic to diclofenac, acetaminophen (paracetamol), or any ingredient in this medicine or have active stomach or intestinal ulcers or bleeding.
- Check other medications: Always check the labels of over-the-counter cold, cough, allergy, or pain medicines to ensure they do not contain similar pain-relieving ingredients, as this can lead to accidental liver damage or overdose.
- Monitor your stool colour: Regularly check your stools. If you notice black, sticky, or bloody stools, stop taking the medicine and seek emergency medical care immediately.
- Check your blood pressure: Since this medication can sometimes cause fluid retention and raise blood pressure, monitor your blood pressure regularly and report any significant increases to your doctor.
- Avoid driving if dizzy: Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or perform tasks requiring intense focus if this medication makes you feel dizzy, drowsy, or lightheaded.
Drug Interactions
- Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin): May significantly increase the risk of serious stomach bleeding.
- Other NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin): Can raise the risk of developing severe stomach ulcers and bleeding.
- Blood pressure medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors, diuretics): Acetaminophen+diclofenac may reduce the effectiveness of these medications and increase the risk of kidney strain.
- Mood stabiliser (e.g., lithium): May increase the risk of serious side effects and toxicity.
- Antimetabolites (e.g., methotrexate): May cause build up of methotrexate levels your body, increasing the risk of serious side effects and toxicity.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
unsafeAvoid consumption of alcohol while taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac as it may increase drowsiness. It can also increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
Pregnancy
cautionAvoid taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac if you are pregnant unless prescribed by a doctor. Please consult your doctor if you have any concerns regarding this, your doctor will prescribe only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast Feeding
cautionConsult your doctor before taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac, your doctor will decide whether Acetaminophen+diclofenac can be taken by breastfeeding mothers or not.
Driving
cautionAcetaminophen+diclofenac may affect driving ability as it causes headaches, blurred vision, dizziness or drowsiness so do not drive or operate machinery unless you are alert.
Liver
cautionDose adjustment may be needed in patients with liver impairment. Please consult your doctor if you have a liver impairment or any concerns regarding this.
Kidney
cautionDose adjustment may be needed in patients with kidney impairment. Please consult your doctor if you have kidney impairment or any concerns regarding this.
Children
unsafeAcetaminophen+diclofenac is not recommended for children below 12 years of age without the doctor's consent. For children above 12 years, the dose needs to be adjusted and recommended by a child specialist only.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Protect your digestive system: Avoid taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac on an empty stomach. Pair your dose with a meal or a small snack to buffer the stomach lining.
- Stay well-hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, throughout the day to support kidney function and help your body process the medication efficiently.
- Engage in low-impact movement: Keep your joints active and flexible with low-impact exercises like swimming, walking, or stationary cycling, which do not place heavy stress on your painful joints.
- Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods: Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats (like olive oil and nuts) to naturally support your body's management of inflammation.
- Avoid alcohol consumption: Completely avoid alcohol while on this medication to protect your liver and reduce the risk of stomach ulcers or bleeding.
Special Advise
- Prolonged use of Acetaminophen+diclofenac may increase the risk of heart diseases. So if you have any heart problems or have undergone any planned heart bypass surgery, please do not take Acetaminophen+diclofenac and consult a doctor.
- If you have had a gastrointestinal ulcer or bleeding problem, do not take Acetaminophen+diclofenac.
- Acetaminophen+diclofenac should not be given to the children less than 10 years of age.
- Close monitoring of infections as Acetaminophen+diclofenac may mask the signs and symptoms of infection.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Pain: Pain is a symptom triggered by the nervous system, causing uncomfortable sensations in the body. Pain may be dull or sharp, it might be constant or may come and go. The tolerance level of pain might vary from person to person. Pain can be generalized (overall body aches) or localized (affecting a specific area of the body). Pain can be considered a good thing as it helps us know that something is wrong in the body and thereby helps diagnose the condition. The common causes of pain include headache, muscle strain, cramps, cuts, bone fractures, and arthritis.
Osteoarthritis: It is a joint disease in which the two ends of the joints come together due to the breakdown of a protective covering of cartilage. Due to the absence of this protective covering, the joints rub against each other, leading to pain and stiffness. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, inflammation, and tenderness.
Rheumatoid arthritis: It is an auto-immune disease (the body's immune system attacks its tissue), leading to joint pain and damage. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include pain, swelling, stiffness, deformities, and loss of joint function.
Ankylosing spondylitis: It causes pain and stiffness in the spine. The pain generally starts in the lower back and can spread to the neck, damaged joints, or other body parts. Ankylosing spondylitis includes decreased flexibility which usually leads to hunched-forward posture, pain, and back, and joints.
Migraine: A headache of varying intensity, often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.
FAQs
Acetaminophen+diclofenac is used to relieve pain in conditions like osteoarthritis, sprains and strains of muscles, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, back pain, toothache, painful menses, and mild migraine.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac should not be taken as a long term medication as it may lead to stomach ulcers/bleeding and kidney problems. For best results of Acetaminophen+diclofenac, take it in doses and duration mentioned by your doctor.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac is not indicated for stomach pain. Also, If you have stomach pain post-ingestion it may be a sign of stomach ulcer or gastric bleeding. Do not take Acetaminophen+diclofenac in this condition. It is better to inform your doctor in case of stomach pain.
It is advised not to take Acetaminophen+diclofenac until prescribed by your doctor.
Yes, Acetaminophen+diclofenac is a short term medication and if you feel better you can stop taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac, but only after consulting your doctor.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac is a combination of two drugs, namely: Diclofenac, and Acetaminophen. Diclofenac and Acetaminophen work by blocking the effect of a chemical messenger known as cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes that make another chemical prostaglandin (PG). By blocking the COX enzyme's effect, lesser PGs are produced, which reduces mild to moderate pain, fever and inflammation at the injured or damaged site.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac is used to reduce and relieve pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. Arthritis is the tenderness and swelling in the joints.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac should not be taken for longer durations unless prescribed by the doctor. If Acetaminophen+diclofenac has been prescribed for longer durations, regular monitoring of kidney function, liver function and blood count is advised, particularly in elderly patients.
Diarrhea might be a side-effect of Acetaminophen+diclofenac. Drink enough fluids and eat fiber rich food if you experience diarrhea. If you find blood in stools (tarry stools) or if you experience excess diarrhea consult your doctor. Do not take anti-diarrheal medicine on your own.
No, Acetaminophen+diclofenac is not used to treat migraine, it is used to decrease pain caused by mild migraine.
Before taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac, consult your doctor and share your medical history. Follow the recommended dosage and be mindful of potential interactions with other medications or health conditions. Be cautious if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have specific health concerns. Always prioritize your safety and well-being.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac should only be used in children with a doctor's guidance. It is generally not recommended for children under 12 years of age due to potential risks, such as kidney damage, stomach pain, and bleeding. Always consult a healthcare provider before giving Acetaminophen+diclofenac to children (over 12 years old), as the dose may need to be tailored based on the child's specific needs.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac is composed of diclofenac (an anti-inflammatory) and acetaminophen (a fever reducer/mild analgesic), which are primarily used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with bones and muscles.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac is generally safe when used as directed by your doctor, especially for short-term relief of pain associated with bones and muscles. However, it should be used with caution, as prolonged use or high doses may lead to liver damage, stomach ulcers, and bleeding. Please consult your doctor if you have concerns about the safety of Acetaminophen+diclofenac or need personalized advice.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac may cause mild side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, in some individuals. It contains a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (Diclofenac), which can irritate the stomach lining, leading to nausea or vomiting. To manage these side effects, take Acetaminophen+diclofenac with food or a full glass of water. If the nausea or vomiting is severe, please consult a doctor.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac may cause dizziness as a potential side effect in some individuals. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel dizzy after taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac. Usually, these effects fade away with time. If the dizziness persists or becomes severe, please consult your doctor, as they may adjust the dosage or recommend alternative treatments.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac may damage the kidneys if taken in high doses or for a prolonged period, especially if you have pre-existing kidney problems. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if overused, while diclofenac (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) can impair kidney function. Please consult your doctor before using Acetaminophen+diclofenac; they may adjust the dosage if necessary.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac has specific contraindications, including allergies to any ingredients or other NSAIDs, active stomach ulcers or bleeding, severe liver or kidney disease, severe heart conditions (history of heart attack or stroke), asthma, and recent heart bypass surgery. However, this is not an exhaustive list. It's essential to consult your doctor for full information and determine if this medication suits you. Your doctor will assess your individual circumstances and advise whether this medication is appropriate for your needs, ensuring safe and effective treatment.
Yes, Acetaminophen+diclofenac and Vitamin B-complex can generally be taken together, as no known major interactions exist between them. However, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac with supplements or other medications to ensure safety and avoid potential interactions.
No, taking a dose higher than the recommended dose of Acetaminophen+diclofenac is not safe. High doses of Acetaminophen+diclofenac may lead to liver damage (due to acetaminophen) and increase the risk of stomach bleeding and kidney damage (due to diclofenac). Always follow the dosing instructions and consult a doctor if you are unsure.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children.
If you have a peptic ulcer, you should avoid taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac, as it may irritate the stomach lining and worsen the ulcer (especially because of diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug [NSAID]). Please consult your healthcare provider before taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac to ensure it is appropriate for your condition.
Acetaminophen+diclofenac may cause common side effects such as stomach upset, dizziness, light-headedness, malaise, nausea, vomiting, liver dysfunction (hepatitis), pruritus (itchy skin), and rash. Most of these side effects do not require medical attention and will resolve gradually over time. However, you are advised to talk to your doctor if you experience these side effects persistently.
Avoid taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac during pregnancy unless prescribed by a doctor. In particular, diclofenac (one of its ingredients) is not recommended during the last trimester, as it may harm the baby. Please consult your doctor if you have any concerns regarding this. Your doctor will prescribe it only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
It is generally not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Acetaminophen+diclofenac. Both alcohol and Acetaminophen+diclofenac can strain the liver and increase the risk of liver damage or stomach bleeding. Drinking alcohol may also increase drowsiness, so do not drive or operate machinery unless you are fully alert. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Do not take other pain relievers without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Many over-the-counter medicines contain similar ingredients, which can increase the risk of overdose, liver damage, stomach ulcers, or bleeding.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns about your dosing schedule.
Yes, some patients may experience dizziness, lightheadedness, or drowsiness as a side effect of Acetaminophen+diclofenac. Avoid driving, riding a bicycle, or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you. Talk to your doctor if these symptoms do not go away.
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