Section 02 · Monograph
Diclofenac potassium
Reviewed Nov 2026FDA label
CambiaNSAID
- Forms
- Powder packet: 50mg
- Dose
- 50mg once at onset (mix in water)
- MOA
- COX inhibition
Black Box Warning
- Risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events (MI, stroke); contraindicated in the setting of CABG surgery
- Risk of serious GI bleeding, ulceration and perforation, which can be fatal
Indications
- Acute treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults (Cambia)FDA-labeled
Mechanism of Action
- NSAID that inhibits cyclooxygenase, reducing prostaglandin synthesis; powder formulation offers rapid absorption
Full Dosing
Adult / usual
- 50mg (one packet) mixed in 1-2 ounces of water and drunk immediately at migraine onset; single dose per attack
- Not for prevention or for cluster or hemiplegic migraine; safety of repeated dosing within 24 hours not established
Contraindications
- Asthma, urticaria or allergic reaction to aspirin or NSAIDs
- Perioperative CABG pain
- Known hypersensitivity to diclofenac
Drug Interactions
- Anticoagulants and aspirin: bleeding risk
- ACE inhibitors, ARBs and diuretics: reduced effect and renal risk
- Raises lithium and methotrexate levels
Adverse Effects
- Nausea, dizziness, somnolence
- GI bleeding and ulceration
- Hepatotoxicity (rare), renal impairment
- Hypertension and fluid retention
Monitoring Parameters
- Blood pressure, renal function, CBC and liver tests with frequent use
- Medication overuse headache
Pregnancy & Lactation
- Avoid at 20 weeks gestation and later; avoid in the third trimester
- Small amounts in milk