Diclofenac sodium overdose
Definition
Diclofenac sodium is a prescription medicine used to relieve pain and swelling. It is an nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Diclofenac sodium overdose occurs when someone accidentally or intentionally takes more than the normal or recommended amount of this medication.
Alternative Names
Voltaren overdose
Poisonous Ingredient
Diclofenac
Where Found
Diclofenac sodium is a prescription medication. Brands include:
- Voltaren
- Arthrotec
- Solaraze
Note: This list may not be all-inclusive
Symptoms
In very rare cases, breathing problems, coma, convulsions, and blurred vision may occur.
Home Care
Seek immediate medical help. Do NOT make a person throw up unless you are told to do so by a doctor or poison control.
Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following information:
- Patient's age, weight, and condition
- Name of the product (ingredients and strengths, if known)
- Time it was swallowed
- Amount swallowed
- If the medication was prescribed for the patient
Poison Control
The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.
This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
See: Poison control center - emergency number
What to Expect at the Emergency Room
The health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. Symptoms will be treated as appropriate.
The patient may receive:
- Activated charcoal
- Laxative
- Tube through the mouth into the stomach to empty the stomach (gastric lavage)
Outlook (Prognosis)
Taking too much of this medication is not usually a problem. You may have some pain in your stomach and vomiting (possibly with blood). However, these symptoms will likely get better.
In rare cases you may also hear ringing in your ears and have a bad headache, but these symptoms will likely pass as well.
Review Date:
1/20/2008
Reviewed By:
Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
