The nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac sodium relieves pain, swelling, stiffness and tenderness. Doctors prescribe this medicine for treating symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, gout, premenstrual syndrome and for relieving pain caused by cancer. Diclofenac sodium is associated with many side effects, some serious, but weight loss is uncommon with this drug, advises DailyMed.
Incidence
The incidence of reported weight loss connected with diclofenac sodium use is less than 1 percent, according to DailyMed. This possible side effect was not found during premarketing clinical trials with the drug, but has been reported on an anecdotal basis. The rarity of the reports makes it impossible to know whether diclofenac sodium caused the weight loss or whether some other factor was involved.
Side Effects
It is unclear why some people might lose weight when taking diclofenac sodium. However, the drug is associated with many unpleasant digestive side effects that can lead to weight loss. As noted by eMedTV, some digestive side effects of diclofenac include stomach pain, diarrhea, heartburn, indigestion, gas, nausea and vomiting. You could experience other side effects when taking diclofenac, such as constipation, dizziness, headaches and ringing in the ears.
Liver Dysfunction
Diclofenac sodium use has also been connected with elevated liver enzymes and liver dysfunction. Loss of appetite and weight loss while taking this drug could be a symptom of liver problems, according to Drugs.com. Other symptoms to watch for that could indicate liver dysfunction include dark urine, pale stools, jaundice, itching, nausea and fatigue. If any of these symptoms develop, stop taking diclofenac and seek medical attention.
Caution
In addition to liver dysfunction, diclofenac sodium can cause other serious side effects. As with other NSAIDs, patients taking diclofenac have developed peptic ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding and intestinal perforations. These effects may not produce any early symptoms, warns DailyMed. In addition, diclofenac and other NSAIDs increase the risk of heart attack and stroke in some individuals, particularly with long-term use.
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