Arthrotec
(Diclofenac / Misoprostol)
Treats arthritis pain and swelling.
Our bottom line
Arthrotec (Diclofenac / Misoprostol) is an okay medication used to treat pain and swelling caused by arthritis. However, because of the risk of heart attack, it's recommended to limit the amount you take.
- Price before coupon$201.01
- Lowest price with coupon$40.7580% savings
- Drug class: Pain
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (diclofenac / misoprostol)
Upsides
- Clinical studies show that Arthrotec (Diclofenac / Misoprostol) is better at relieving arthritis pain than acetaminophen (Tylenol).
- Can be used as needed to treat pain and swelling.
- Available as a generic.
Downsides
- Can't be used in pregnant or breastfeeding women.
- You should avoid alcohol while on Arthrotec (Diclofenac / Misoprostol) since it can increase your risk of stomach issues.
- If you're taking it on a regular basis, you'll need to get labs done to make sure your liver and kidneys aren't being affected.
Arthrotec (Diclofenac / Misoprostol) contains two medications. Diclofenac stops the body from making chemicals that cause inflammation and pain. Misoprostol protects the stomach from irritation.
- Drug class: Pain
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (diclofenac / misoprostol)
Used for
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Inflammation
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Extended release
Prices and coupons
Skip prices section. Skip to what to expect section.- Get free discount
$56.42 - Rite AidGet free coupon$57.74
Side effect rates for Arthrotec (Diclofenac / Misoprostol)
- Abdominal pain21%21%
- Diarrhea19%19%
- Dyspepsia14%14%
- Nausea11%11%
- GI disorders9%9%
- Flatulence9%9%
The placebo bar shows how common a side effect was for people taking a sugar pill instead of Arthrotec.
People taking Arthrotec felt side effect more
People taking Arthrotec felt side effect less
Risks and Warnings for Arthrotec (Diclofenac / Misoprostol)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.- Higher risk if:
- › History of heart problems
- › High blood pressure
- › High cholesterol
- › Diabetes
- › Being overweight or obese
- › Smoking
Arthrotec (Diclofenac / Misoprostol) can increase your chance of having blood clots, heart attack, or stroke. Take the lowest dose for the shortest time possible to lower your risk. Never take Arthrotec (Diclofenac / Misoprostol) during the first two weeks after having heart surgery.
This is a black box warning. The FDA requires this warning when there is a significant risk of serious or life-threatening effects that anyone taking the drug should consider.
Pharmacist Q&A
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this drug for?
This medication treats symptoms of osteoarthritis in people who are at risk of developing gastric and duodenal ulcers caused by NSAID pain relievers.Common concerns from people taking Arthrotec (Diclofenac / Misoprostol)
Final section. Do you want to return to drug navigation?Research studies with real people or animals found harmful effects on unborn babies. If you’re pregnant, the risks to your unborn baby outweigh the benefits.
Tip: Always talk with your doctor before you take any medication while pregnant.- Don't drink alcohol while on Arthrotec (Diclofenac / Misoprostol).
- You should avoid alcohol while on Arthrotec (Diclofenac / Misoprostol) since it can increase your risk of stomach issues.
- Take with food to avoid getting diarrhea.
- Arthrotec (Diclofenac / Misoprostol), and similar medications in the NSAID family, can lower kidney function or cause permanent kidney damage. Taking the lowest dose for the shortest amount of time necessary can lower your risk of kidney problems. It's important to get lab tests to check your kidney function periodically if you use Arthrotec (Diclofenac / Misoprostol) for long periods of time.
- Can cause swelling in the legs, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, and an upset stomach.
- Can be used as needed to treat pain and swelling.
- Worth itReviewed Arthrotecon 9/19/2017Arthotect worked very well for treating pain in neck, shoulders. Had to go off it and I'm really suffering72WomanTwo years or moreOsteoarthritis