Arthrotec is a medication used to manage the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis in people who have an increased risk for developing intestinal and stomach ulcers. According to Drugs.com, Arthrotec is a combination of diclofenac and misoprostol. Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain and inflammation. Misoprostol is a prostaglandin medication that decreases stomach acid production. Typical dosage is 50mg of Arthrotec two to three times daily.
Common Side Effects
In a multinational clinical-controlled trial study of more than 2,000 patients receiving Arthrotec, the National Library of Medicine says that 21 percent experienced stomach pain, 19 percent had diarrhea, 14 percent developed dyspepsia (indigestion), 11 percent developed nausea and 9 percent experienced flatulence (gas). Drugs.com says that Arthrotec can also cause vaginal bleeding, tinnitus (ringing of your ears), sleepiness and blurry vision. These side effects are not life-threatening. However, notify your doctor if these symptoms persist for three days or more.
Serious Side Effects
Arthrotec can cause serious side effects such as trouble breathing and dysphagia (trouble swallowing). The National Library of Medicine says that Arthrotec may increase your risk of a stroke or myocardial infarction (heart attack). It may also cause gastrointestinal bleeding, ulcers, and stomach or intestinal perforation. Seek immediate medical attention should you experience these side effects.
Arthrotec can also cause problems with the digestive system characterized by stomach pain, melena (black stools), bloody stools, fast weight gain and jaundice (yellowing of your skin or eyes).
Arthrotec can also cause extreme fatigue, itching, poor appetite, stiff neck, headache, muscle pain, confusion, light sensitivity, back pain, vaginal bleeding and dysuria (painful urination). Inform your doctor if any of these side effects develop with Arthrotec use.
Other Concerns
According to the National Library of Medicine, you should not take Arthrotec if you are pregnant. The misoprostol component in Arthrotec can cause uterine rupture, spontaneous abortion, birth defects and premature delivery.
Drugs.com says that you should tell your doctor if you have heart problems, bleeding disorders, a history of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers, asthma and liver or kidney disease. Arthrotec may cause these conditions to worsen.
Drugs.com indicates that you should avoid such medications as warfarin, digoxin, diuretics, steroids, phenobarbital, insulin, lithium, methotrexate, aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. These medications may increase the risk of experiencing the above side effects.
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