Diclofenac Causing Stomach Pain In Children

Unfortunately, gastrointestinal side effects, like cramping, stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea, are very common with Cataflam (diclofenac).^[1] In fact, they are the most commonly reported side effects according to the prescribing information for the drug.^[2]

One way to potentially lessen the severity of side effects like stomach pain is to give the Cataflam (diclofenac) with food or after food.^[3] Food slows absorption time of the medication and may make it better tolerated. However, this may increase the time it takes for the medication to begin working.^[4]

Diclofenac use hasn't been well studied in children.

Although there are some studies that point to its effectiveness for the treatment of pain, it is not FDA-approved for use in children younger than 6 years old so data on side effects may be lacking.^[5]

In fact, oral dosage forms of diclofenac (e.g. tablets, capsules) are only FDA-approved in adults. Topical dosage forms (e.g. patches) are the form that is approved to be used in children 6 years old and over.

It is important to say that even though diclofenac (orally) isn't FDA-approved in children, it may represent the best course of therapy for their particular medical situation and use in children isn't actually uncommon. For instance, in the UK, diclofenac is used in children as young as one-year-old.^[6]

Cataflam contains the active ingredient diclofenac, which is classified as an NSAID, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication.

It is in the same class of drugs as ibuprofen and naproxen (although diclofenac is longer lasting and more specifically targets inflammatory mediators).

NSAIDs, in general, are well-known to cause gastrointestinal side effects, which can range from relatively mild (e.g. mild pain or cramping) to severe (e.g. bleeding). Longer-term use increases the risk of side effects.

The prescribing information for Cataflam (diclofenac) recommends the following strategies to lower the risk of GI side effects:

• Use the lowest dosage possible for the shortest duration of time.
• Do not take more than one NSAID at a time.
• Do not use in those with a history of GI problems, especially bleeds.

Although you should speak with your doctor about any side effect you find concerning, you especially should reach out if:

• There is blood in the stool or the stool is black (this could be indicative of a GI bleed).
• You experience prolonged stomach pain, indigestion or vomiting (these could indicate the formation of an ulcer or increased inflammation in the stomach)

Severe side effects of the stomach, like bleeding, are uncommon with low dosages used for short periods of time. Most stomach side effects are mild and simply due to the irritating nature of diclofenac. Nevertheless, if you see any signs of serious side effects, you should speak to your doctor immediately.^[7]

Be sure to speak with your child's doctor regarding the stomach side effects they are experiencing from using Cataflam (diclofenac).

They, first of all, would want to rule out anything that could be serious, and from there, perhaps they may recommend a dose change or even a medication change if the side effects don't get better after taking the medication with food.

Other strategies may include prescribing the use of an acid-blocker to use at the same time (which may reduce GI irritation) or other drugs (e.g. misoprostol) known to reduce the risk of side GI side effects.^[8]