Cambia (Diclofenac Potassium)

Description

Indications

Diclofenac is classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and is commonly prescribed to alleviate mild-to-moderate pain while reducing symptoms associated with arthritis, including inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain. Diclofenac is not a curative treatment for arthritis, and its benefits are only sustained as long as it is continuously taken.

This medication is additionally utilized for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis, a specific type of arthritis affecting the spine’s joints, as well as other painful conditions like menstrual cramps. In adults, diclofenac is also prescribed to alleviate the symptoms of acute migraine attacks.

Uses and Dosage

Please follow the instructions provided by your physician when taking this medication orally. Refrain from increasing the dosage of the medication if the symptoms do not improve. The manufacturer suggests that a maximum of one packet should be taken per migraine attack.

To administer the medication, pour the contents of one packet into a cup containing 1 to 2 ounces (30 to 60 milliliters) of water, mix it thoroughly, and consume it immediately. Only mix the medication with water and avoid combining it with other liquids.

In the event of stomach discomfort, take the medication with food, milk, or an antacid. Consuming a fatty meal may decrease the efficacy of the medication.

Various brands and forms of this medication are available, and not all forms may have the same effect at the same strength. Refrain from switching forms of diclofenac unless instructed by your physician.

To minimize the risk of side effects, take the lowest effective dose. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage or take the medication more frequently than directed.

Pain medications are most effective when taken at the onset of pain or migraine symptoms. Delaying medication administration until the pain has intensified may result in decreased efficacy.

If you are utilizing medication for migraine attacks on ten or more days per month, the medication may exacerbate your headaches, leading to medication overuse headaches. Avoid exceeding the recommended dosage or frequency of medication use.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• bloated
• continuing ringing or buzzing or other unexplained noise in the ears
• difficulty in swallowing
• excess air or gas in the stomach or intestines
• hearing loss
• lack or loss of strength
• pain or burning in the throat
• passing gas

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• acid or sour stomach
• belching
• bleeding gums
• blood in the urine or stools
• bloody or black, tarry stools
• burning while urinating
• chest pain
• chills
• cough
• clay-colored stools
• cloudy urine
• constipation
• dark urine
• decrease in urine output or decrease in urine-concentrating ability
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• feeling of indigestion
• fever
• frequent urge to urinate
• headache
• heartburn
• increased bleeding time
• indigestion
• itching skin or rash
• light-colored stools
• loss of appetite
• nausea and vomiting
• pain in the chest below the breastbone
• painful or difficult urination
• pale skin
• pinpoint red spots on the skin
• stomach bloating, burning, cramping, discomfort, upset, or pain
• sore throat
• sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth
• swelling or inflammation of the mouth
• swollen glands
• trouble breathing
• unpleasant breath odor
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• upper right abdominal or stomach pain
• vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
• weight loss
• yellow eyes and skin

Caution

Prior to taking diclofenac, inform your physician or pharmacist if you have an allergy to it, aspirin, or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or celecoxib. This product may contain inactive components that could cause allergic reactions or other issues.

Prior to taking this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, particularly if you have asthma, blood disorders, nasal polyps, heart disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, stroke, swelling (edema or fluid retention), or stomach/intestinal/esophagus problems.

The use of NSAID medications, including diclofenac, can occasionally cause kidney problems. These issues are more likely to arise if you are dehydrated, have heart failure or kidney disease, are an older adult, or take certain medications. Drink plenty of fluids as instructed by your doctor to prevent dehydration, and immediately notify your doctor if you notice pink/bloody urine or any unusual changes in urine output.

This drug can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Alcohol or cannabis can exacerbate these side effects. Until you can perform activities safely, do not operate machinery, drive, or do anything that requires alertness or clear vision.

This medication can cause stomach bleeding. Regular use of alcohol or tobacco, particularly when combined with this medication, can increase your risk of stomach bleeding.

This medication can increase your sensitivity to sunlight. Limit your time in the sun, avoid tanning beds and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outside. If you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness, contact your doctor immediately.

Older adults may be at a higher risk of stomach/intestinal bleeding, kidney problems, heart attack, and stroke when using this drug.

Women of childbearing age should consult their doctor(s) about the benefits and risks of using this medication before taking it. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. This medication can harm an unborn baby and cause complications during normal labor/delivery. It is not recommended for use after 20 weeks of pregnancy until delivery. If your doctor determines that you need to use this medication between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy, you should use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. You should not use this medication after 30 weeks of pregnancy.

This medication passes into breast milk. Speak with your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Cambia is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Cambia oral powder:
  • 50mg

FAQ

Why does Cambia work for migraines?

Cambia works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation.

How quick does Cambia work?

Cambia works quickly – in as little as 15 minutes in some patients.

Resources

1. https://www.drugs.com/cambia.html#:~:text=Cambia%20is%20a%20nonsteroidal%20anti,used%20to%20prevent%20migraine%20headaches
2. https://cambiarx.com/why-cambia/#:~:text=CAMBIA%20works%20quickly%E2%80%94in%20as%20little%20as%2015%20minutes%20in%20some%20patients
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/diclofenac-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20069748
4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-154102/cambia-oral/details
5. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a689002.html
6. https://www.drugs.com/cambia.html