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ARTHROTEC

diclofenac sodium and misoprostol · Tablet, Film Coated

Prescription NDA TE AB RLD Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
ARTHROTEC
Generic name
diclofenac sodium and misoprostol
Dosage form
Tablet, Film Coated
Route
Oral
Marketing category
NDA · NDA
Labeler
Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
Not scheduled
Active ingredients
3
NDC product codes
2
Packages
3
Data completeness
76% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Diclofenac Sodium 50 mg/1 855633 View
Diclofenac Sodium 75 mg/1 855633 View
Misoprostol 200 ug/1 317128 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Tablet, Film Coated
Route of administration
Oral
Presentations
5

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
Anti-Inflammatory Agents EPC All 251 members
Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors [MoA] MoA All 251 members
Decreased Prostaglandin Production [PE] PE All 54 members
Non-Steroidal [CS] CS All 251 members
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug [EPC] EPC All 251 members
Prostaglandin E1 Analog [EPC] EPC 7 members — no class page
Prostaglandins E EPC 7 members — no class page
Synthetic [CS] CS 7 members — no class page

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
020607
Application type
NDA · New Drug Application
Approval date
December 24, 1997
Sponsor
PFIZER
Products on application
2
Submissions recorded
25
Products approved under application 020607.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
020607-001 ARTHROTEC TABLET, DELAYED RELEASE DICLOFENAC SODIUM; MISOPROSTOL Prescription AB RLD
020607-002 ARTHROTEC TABLET, DELAYED RELEASE DICLOFENAC SODIUM; MISOPROSTOL Prescription AB RLD RS

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
AB
Reference Listed Drug
Yes
Reference Standard
Yes

What this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing

Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 020607.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 43 Labeling Approved November 21, 2024 Standard
Supplement 41 Labeling Approved December 22, 2022 Standard
Supplement 40 Labeling Approved August 26, 2022 Standard
Supplement 39 Labeling Approved August 2, 2021 Standard
Supplement 38 Labeling Approved April 28, 2021 Standard
Supplement 36 Labeling Approved September 24, 2020 Standard
Supplement 33 Labeling Approved July 28, 2020 Standard
Supplement 31 Labeling Approved May 9, 2016 Standard
Supplement 21 Labeling Approved April 1, 2015 Standard
Supplement 28 Labeling Approved September 3, 2014 Standard
Supplement 25 Labeling Approved March 7, 2013 Standard
Supplement 26 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved February 8, 2013 Standard
Supplement 16 Labeling Approved December 21, 2010 Unknown
Supplement 13 Labeling Approved September 11, 2009 Standard
Supplement 14 Labeling Approved February 25, 2009 901 Required
Supplement 10 Labeling Approved August 24, 2007 Standard
Supplement 9 Labeling Approved January 25, 2006 Standard
Supplement 8 Labeling Approved July 8, 2005 Standard
Supplement 7 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved May 20, 2002 Standard
Supplement 5 Labeling Approved October 3, 2000 Standard
Supplement 4 Labeling Approved February 22, 1999 Standard
Supplement 3 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved July 20, 1998 Standard
Supplement 1 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved April 15, 1998 Standard
Supplement 2 Manufacturing (CMC) Approved March 16, 1998 Standard
Original application 1 Type 4 - New Combination Approved December 24, 1997 Standard

Review documents

  • 0 · Supplement · November 25, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · November 25, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · November 22, 2024
  • 0 · Supplement · December 27, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · December 23, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · August 30, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · August 29, 2022
  • 0 · Supplement · August 5, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · August 3, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · May 4, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · April 29, 2021
  • 0 · Supplement · September 25, 2020
  • 0 · Supplement · September 25, 2020
  • 0 · Supplement · July 30, 2020
  • 0 · Supplement · July 29, 2020
  • 0 · Supplement · May 12, 2016
  • 0 · Supplement · May 11, 2016
  • 0 · Supplement · April 3, 2015
  • 0 · Supplement · April 2, 2015
  • 0 · Supplement · September 9, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · September 5, 2014
  • 0 · Supplement · March 8, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · March 8, 2013
  • 0 · Supplement · December 22, 2010
  • 0 · Supplement · December 22, 2010
  • 0 · Supplement · November 10, 2009
  • 0 · Supplement · October 6, 2009
  • 0 · Supplement · March 17, 2009
  • 0 · Supplement · February 27, 2009
  • 0 · Supplement · August 27, 2007

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20250814). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20250814

Boxed Warning

openFDA Drug Labeling

WARNING: RISK OF UTERINE RUPTURE, ABORTION, PREMATURE BIRTH, BIRTH DEFECTS; SERIOUS CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS; AND SERIOUS GASTROINTESTINAL EVENTS WARNING: RISK OF UTERINE RUPTURE, ABORTION, PREMATURE BIRTH, BIRTH DEFECTS; SERIOUS CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS; AND SERIOUS GASTROINTESTINAL EVENTS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. • Administration of misoprostol, a component of ARTHROTEC, to pregnant women can cause uterine rupture, abortion, premature birth, or birth defects. Uterine rupture has occurred when misoprostol was administered in pregnant women to induce labor or an abortion. ( 4 , 5.1 , 8.1 ) • ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in pregnancy and is not recommended in women of childbearing potential. Patients must be advised of the abortifacient property and warned not to give the drug to others. ( 5.1 , 8.3 ) • Increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. ( 5.2 ) • ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. ( 4 , 5.2 ) • Increased risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal and can occur at any time and without warning symptoms. Elderly patients and patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding are at greater risk. ( 5.3 ) Uterine Rupture, Abortion, Premature Birth, and Birth Defects • Administration of misoprostol, a component of ARTHROTEC, to pregnant women can cause uterine rupture, abortion, premature birth, or birth defects. Uterine rupture has occurred when misoprostol was administered in pregnant women to induce labor or an abortion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . • ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in pregnancy [see Contraindications (4) ] and not recommended in women of childbearing potential. Patients must be advised of the abortifacient property and warned not to give the drug to others [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . • If ARTHROTEC is prescribed, verify the pregnancy status of females of reproductive potential prior to initiation of treatment and advise them to use effective contraception during treatment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3) ]. Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events • NSAIDs cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may occur early in treatment and may increase with duration of use [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . • ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Ulceration, and Perforation • NSAIDs cause an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms. Elderly patients and patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding are at greater risk for serious GI events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] .

Recent Major Changes

openFDA Drug Labeling

Warnings and Precautions, Serious Skin Reactions ( 5.10 ) 11/2024

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE ARTHROTEC is indicated for treatment of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in adult patients at high risk of developing NSAID-induced gastric and duodenal ulcers and their complications. For a list of factors that may increase the risk of NSAID-induced gastric and duodenal ulcers and their complications [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] . ARTHROTEC is a combination of diclofenac sodium, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, and misoprostol, a prostaglandin-1 (PGE1) analog, indicated for the treatment of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in adult patients at high risk of developing NSAID-induced gastric and duodenal ulcers and their complications. ( 1 )

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals. ( 2.1 ) • Osteoarthritis: The recommended dosage for maximal GI protection is one tablet (containing 50 mg of diclofenac and 200 mcg of misoprostol) three times daily. A dosage of diclofenac higher than 150 mg/day is not recommended. ( 2.2 ) • Rheumatoid Arthritis: The recommended dosage for maximal GI protection is one tablet (containing 50 mg of diclofenac and 200 mcg of misoprostol) three or four times daily A dosage of diclofenac higher than 200 mg/day is not recommended. ( 2.3 ) • For dosage modifications due to intolerance, see the full Prescribing Information. ( 2.2 , 2.3 ) 2.1 Important Dosage Information • Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of ARTHROTEC and other treatment options before deciding to use ARTHROTEC. Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals [see Warnings and Precautions (5) ] . • After observing the response to initial therapy with ARTHROTEC, the dose and frequency should be adjusted to suit an individual patient's needs. • ARTHORTEC is not recommended for patients who would not receive the appropriate dosage of both active ingredients. • ARTHROTEC, a fixed combination product, is administered as ARTHROTEC 50 (50 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol) or ARTHROTEC 75 (75 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol). 2.2 Recommended Dosage in Patients with Osteoarthritis The recommended dosage for the treatment of osteoarthritis for maximal GI mucosal protection is ARTHROTEC 50 three times a day. For patients who experience intolerance, ARTHROTEC 75 two times a day or ARTHROTEC 50 two times a day can be used, but these dosages are less effective in preventing ulcers. A daily dosage of diclofenac sodium greater than 150 mg/day is not recommended. Daily doses of the components delivered with these regimens are as follows: Osteoarthritis Regimen Diclofenac sodium (mg/day) Misoprostol (mcg/day) ARTHROTEC 50 three times a day 150 600 two times a day For patients who experience intolerance; these dosages are less effective in preventing ulcers 100 400 ARTHROTEC 75 two times a day 150 400 2.3 Recommended Dosage in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis The recommended dosage for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis is ARTHROTEC 50 three or four times a day. For patients who experience intolerance, ARTHROTEC 75 two times a day or ARTHROTEC 50 two times a day can be used, but are less effective in preventing ulcers. A daily dosage of diclofenac sodium greater than 200 mg/day is not recommended. Daily doses of the components delivered with these regimens are as follows: Rheumatoid Arthritis Regimen Diclofenac sodium (mg/day) Misoprostol (mcg/day) ARTHROTEC 50 four times a day 200 800 three times a day 150 600 two times a day For patients who experience intolerance; these dosages are less effective in preventing ulcers 100 400 ARTHROTEC 75 two times a day 150 400 2.4 Additional Dosage Recommendations ARTHROTEC contains misoprostol, which provides protection against gastric and duodenal ulcers [see Clinical Studies (14) ] . For gastric ulcer prevention, the 200 mcg four and three times a day regimens are therapeutically equivalent, but more protective than the two times a day regimen. For duodenal ulcer prevention, the four times a day regimen is more protective than the three or two times a day regimens. However, the four times a day regimen is less well tolerated than the three times a day regimen because of usually self-limited diarrhea related to the misoprostol dose [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] , and the two times a day regimen may be better tolerated than three times a day in some patients. Dosages may be individualized using the separate products (misoprostol and diclofenac sodium), after which the patient may be switched to the appropriate ARTHROTEC dosage. If clinically indicated, …

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Delayed-release tablets: • 50 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol as round, biconvex, white to off-white tablets imprinted with four "A's" encircling a "50" in the middle on one side and "SEARLE" and "1411" on the other. • 75 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol as round, biconvex, white to off-white tablets imprinted with four "A's" encircling a "75" in the middle on one side and "SEARLE" and "1421" on the other. Delayed-release tablets: • 50 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol ( 3 ) • 75 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol ( 3 )

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in the following patients: • Pregnancy. Use of misoprostol, a component of ARTHROTEC, during pregnancy can result in maternal and fetal harm, including uterine rupture, abortion, premature birth, or birth defects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] • In the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] • Active gastrointestinal bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Severe, sometimes fatal, anaphylactic reactions to NSAIDs have been reported in such patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8 , 5.9) ] • Known hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylactic reactions and serious skin reactions) to diclofenac sodium and misoprostol, other prostaglandins, or any components of the drug product [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8 , 5.10) ] • Pregnancy ( 4 ) • In the setting of CABG surgery ( 4 ) • Active gastrointestinal bleeding ( 4 ) • History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs ( 4 ) • Known hypersensitivity to diclofenac sodium, misoprostol, or any components of the drug product ( 4 )

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Embryo-Fetal Toxicity with NSAIDs : Use of NSAIDs, including diclofenac in women at about 20 weeks gestation and later in pregnancy may cause oligohydramnios/fetal renal dysfunction and premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus. ( 4 , 5.1 , 8.1 ) • Hepatotoxicity : Inform patients of warning signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity. Discontinue if abnormal liver tests persist or worsen or if clinical signs and symptoms of liver disease develop. ( 5.4 ) • Hypertension : Patients taking some antihypertensive medications may have impaired response to these therapies when taking NSAIDs. Monitor blood pressure. ( 5.5 , 7 ) • Heart Failure and Edema : Avoid in patients with severe heart failure unless benefits are expected to outweigh risk of worsening heart failure. ( 5.6 ) • Renal Toxicity : Monitor renal function in patients with renal or hepatic impairment, heart failure, dehydration, or hypovolemia. Avoid in patients with advanced renal disease unless benefits are expected to outweigh risk of worsening renal function. ( 5.7 ) • Anaphylactic Reactions : Seek emergency help if an anaphylactic reaction occurs. ( 5.8 ) • Exacerbation of Asthma Related to Aspirin Sensitivity : Contraindicated in patients with aspirin-sensitive asthma. Monitor patients with preexisting asthma (without aspirin sensitivity). ( 5.9 ) • Serious Skin Reactions : Discontinue at first appearance of skin rash or other signs of hypersensitivity. ( 5.10 ) • Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) : Discontinue and evaluate clinically. ( 5.11 ) • Hematologic Toxicity : Monitor hemoglobin or hematocrit in patients with any signs or symptoms of anemia. ( 5.12 , 7 ) 5.1 Uterine Rupture, Abortion, Premature Birth, or Birth Defects with Misoprostol and Embryo-Fetal Toxicity with NSAIDs Misoprostol Administration of misoprostol, a component of ARTHROTEC, to pregnant women can cause uterine rupture, abortion, premature birth, or birth defects. Uterine rupture has occurred when misoprostol was administered to pregnant women to induce labor or an abortion. ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in pregnant women. ARTHROTEC is not recommended in women of childbearing potential. Patients must be advised of the abortifacient property and warned not to give the drug to others [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . If ARTHROTEC is prescribed, verify the pregnancy status of females of reproductive potential prior to initiation of treatment and advise the use effective contraception during treatment with ARTHROTEC [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3) ] . Diclofenac Premature Closure of Fetal Ductus Arteriosus NSAIDs, including diclofenac, a component of ARTHROTEC, increase the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus at about 30 weeks of gestation and later. Oligohydramnios/Neonatal Renal Impairment Use of NSAIDs, including diclofenac, at about 20 weeks gestation or later in pregnancy may cause fetal renal dysfunction leading to oligohydramnios and, in some cases, neonatal renal impairment. These adverse outcomes are seen, on average, after days to weeks of treatment, although oligohydramnios has been infrequently reported as soon as 48 hours after NSAID initiation. Oligohydramnios is often, but not always, reversible with treatment discontinuation. Complications of prolonged oligohydramnios may, for example, include limb contractures and delayed lung maturation. In some postmarketing cases of impaired neonatal renal function, invasive procedures such as exchange transfusion or dialysis were required [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . 5.2 Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events Clinical trials of several cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) selective and nonselective NSAIDs of up to three years duration have shown an increased risk of serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke, which can be fatal. Based on available data, it is unclear that the risk for CV thrombotic even …

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: • Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] • GI Bleeding, Ulceration and Perforation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] • Hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] • Heart Failure and Edema [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] • Renal Toxicity and Hyperkalemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] • Anaphylactic Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] • Serious Skin Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] • Hematologic Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12) ] Most common adverse reactions (>2%) are: abdominal pain, diarrhea, dyspepsia, nausea, flatulence, gastritis, vomiting, constipation, headache, dizziness, alanine aminotransferase increased, hematocrit decreased ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Pfizer Inc.at 1-800-438-1985 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Adverse reaction information for ARTHROTEC is derived from multinational controlled clinical trials in over 2,000 patients receiving ARTHROTEC 50 or ARTHROTEC 75, as well as from blinded, controlled trials of diclofenac sodium delayed-release tablets and misoprostol tablets. Gastrointestinal GI disorders had the highest reported incidence of adverse reactions for patients receiving ARTHROTEC. These events were generally minor, but led to discontinuation of therapy in 9% of patients on ARTHROTEC and 5% of patients on diclofenac sodium. For GI ulcer rates, [see Clinical Studies (14) ]. GI disorder ARTHROTEC Diclofenac Sodium Abdominal pain 21% 15% Diarrhea 19% 11% Dyspepsia 14% 11% Nausea 11% 6% Flatulence 9% 4% ARTHROTEC can cause more abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other GI symptoms than diclofenac alone. Diarrhea and abdominal pain developed early in the course of therapy, and were usually self-limited (resolved after 2 to 7 days). Rare instances of profound diarrhea leading to severe dehydration have been reported in patients receiving misoprostol. Patients with an underlying condition such as inflammatory bowel disease, or those in whom dehydration, were it to occur, would be dangerous, should be monitored carefully if ARTHROTEC is prescribed. The incidence of diarrhea can be minimized by administering ARTHROTEC with food and by avoiding coadministration with magnesium-containing antacids. Gynecological Gynecological disorders previously reported with misoprostol use have also been reported for women receiving ARTHROTEC (see below). Postmenopausal vaginal bleeding may be related to administration of ARTHROTEC. If it occurs, diagnostic workup should be undertaken to rule out gynecological pathology [see Boxed Warnings , Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5) ] . Other adverse experiences reported occasionally with ARTHROTEC, diclofenac or other NSAIDs, or misoprostol are: Body as a whole: asthenia, fatigue, malaise. Central and peripheral nervous system: dizziness, drowsiness, headache, insomnia, paresthesia, vertigo. Digestive: anorexia, appetite changes, constipation, dry mouth, dysphagia, esophageal ulceration, esophagitis, eructation, gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux, GI neoplasm benign, peptic ulcer, tenesmus, vomiting. Female reproductive disorders: breast pain, dysmenorrhea, menstrual disorder, menorrhagia, vaginal hemorrhage. Hemic and lymphatic system: epistaxis, leukopenia, melena, purpura, decreased hematocrit. Metabolic and nutritional: alanine aminotransferase increased, alkaline phosphatase increased, aspartate aminotransferase increased, dehydration, hyponatremia. Musculosk …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS See Table 1 for clinically significant drug interactions with diclofenac and misoprostol. Table 1: Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with Diclofenac and Misoprostol Drugs That Interfere with Hemostasis Clinical Impact: • Diclofenac and anticoagulants such as warfarin have a synergistic effect on bleeding. The concomitant use of diclofenac and anticoagulants have an increased risk of serious bleeding compared to the use of either drug alone. • Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Case-control and cohort epidemiological studies showed that concomitant use of drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and an NSAID may potentiate the risk of bleeding more than an NSAID alone. Intervention: Monitor patients with concomitant use of ARTHROTEC with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), antiplatelet drugs (e.g., aspirin), SSRIs, and SNRIs for signs of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12) ] . Aspirin Clinical Impact: Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] . Intervention: Concomitant use of ARTHROTEC and analgesic doses of aspirin is not generally recommended because of the increased risk of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12) ] . ARTHROTEC is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection. ACE Inhibitors, Angiotensin Receptor Blockers, and Beta-Blockers Clinical Impact: • NSAIDs may diminish the antihypertensive effect of ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or beta-blockers (including propranolol). • In patients who are elderly, volume-depleted (including those on diuretic therapy), or have renal impairment, co-administration of an NSAID with ACE inhibitors or ARBs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure. These effects are usually reversible. Intervention: • The concomitant administration of these drugs should be done with caution. Patients should be adequately hydrated and the clinical need to monitor the renal function should be assessed at the beginning of the concomitant treatment and periodically thereafter. • During concomitant use of ARTHROTEC and ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or beta-blockers, monitor blood pressure to ensure that the desired blood pressure is obtained. • During concomitant use of ARTHROTEC and ACE inhibitors or ARBs in patients who are elderly, volume-depleted, or have impaired renal function, monitor for signs of worsening renal function [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ]. Diuretics Clinical Impact: Clinical studies, as well as post-marketing observations, showed that NSAIDs reduced the natriuretic effect of loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide) and thiazide diuretics in some patients. This effect has been attributed to the NSAID inhibition of renal prostaglandin synthesis. Intervention: During concomitant use of ARTHROTEC with diuretics, observe patients for signs of worsening renal function, in addition to assuring diuretic efficacy including antihypertensive effects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] . Digoxin Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of diclofenac with digoxin has been reported to increase the serum concentration and prolong the half-life of digoxin. Intervention: During concomitant use of ARTHROTEC and digoxin, monitor serum digoxin levels. Lithium Clinical Impact: NSAIDs have produced elevations in plasma lithium levels and reductions in renal lithium clearance . The mean minimum lithium concentration increased 15%, and the renal clearance decreased by approximately 20%. This effect has been attributed to NSAID inhibition of renal prostaglandin synthesis. Intervention: During concomitant use of ARTHROTEC and lithium, …

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS • Reversible Infertility : Consider withdrawal in women who have difficulties conceiving. ( 8.3 ) • Geriatric Patients : Avoid use in patients with cardiovascular and/or renal risk factors. ( 8.5 ) • Renal Impairment : Avoid use in patients with advanced renal disease. ( 8.6 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in pregnant women [see Contraindications (4) ]. If a woman becomes pregnant while taking ARTHROTEC, discontinue the drug and advise the woman of the potential risks to her and to a fetus. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of ARTHROTEC in pregnant women; however, there is information available about the active drug components of ARTHROTEC, diclofenac sodium and misoprostol. Administration of misoprostol to pregnant women can cause uterine rupture, abortion, premature birth, or birth defects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Congenital anomalies sometimes associated with fetal death have been reported subsequent to the unsuccessful use of misoprostol as an abortifacient, but the drug's teratogenic mechanism has not been demonstrated. Use of NSAIDS, including diclofenac a component of ARTHROTEC, can cause premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus and fetal renal dysfunction leading to oligohydramnios and, in some cases, neonatal renal impairment ( see Data ). There are clinical considerations when misoprostol and diclofenac are used in pregnant women (see Clinical Considerations ) . In reproduction studies with pregnant rabbits, there were no skeletal or visceral malformations when the combination of diclofenac sodium and misoprostol was administered during organogenesis at doses less than the maximum recommended human doses (MRHD); however, embryotoxicity was observed at this exposure (see Data ) . Based on animal data, prostaglandins have been shown to have an important role in endometrial vascular permeability, blastocyst implantation, and decidualization. In animal studies, administration of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors such as diclofenac, resulted in increased pre- and post-implantation loss. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Maternal Adverse Reactions Misoprostol may produce uterine contractions, uterine bleeding, and expulsion of the products of conception. Misoprostol has been used to ripen the cervix, to induce labor, and to treat postpartum hemorrhage, outside of its approved indication. A major adverse effect of these uses is hyperstimulation of the uterus. Uterine rupture, amniotic fluid embolism, severe bleeding, shock, and maternal death have been reported when misoprostol was administered to pregnant women to induce labor to induce abortion beyond the eighth week of pregnancy. Higher doses of misoprostol, including the 100 mcg tablet, may increase the risk of complications from uterine hyperstimulation. ARTHROTEC, which contains 200 mcg of misoprostol, is likely to have a greater risk of uterine hyperstimulation than the 100 mcg tablet of misoprostol. Abortions caused by misoprostol may be incomplete. Cases of amniotic fluid embolism, which resulted in maternal and fetal death, have been reported with use of misoprostol during pregnancy. Severe vaginal bleeding, retained placenta, shock, and pelvic pain have also been reported. These women were administered misoprostol vaginally and/or orally over a range of doses. ARTHROTEC is contraindicated in pregnant women [see Contraindications (4) ]. If a woman is or becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the drug should be discontinued and the patient apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus. Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions Misoprostol Misopros …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action ARTHROTEC is a combination product containing diclofenac sodium, an NSAID with analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties, and misoprostol, a GI mucosal protective prostaglandin-1 (PGE1) analog. Diclofenac The mechanism of action of diclofenac, like that of other NSAIDs, is not completely understood but involves inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2). Diclofenac is a potent inhibitor of prostaglandin (PG) synthesis in vitro. Diclofenac concentrations reached during therapy have produced in vivo effects. Prostaglandins sensitize afferent nerves and potentiate the action of bradykinin in inducing pain in animal models. Prostaglandins are mediators of inflammation. Because diclofenac is an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, its mode of action may be due to a decrease of prostaglandins in peripheral tissues. Misoprostol Misoprostol is a synthetic PGE1 analog with gastric antisecretory and mucosal protective properties. NSAIDs inhibit prostaglandin synthesis. A deficiency of prostaglandins within the gastric and duodenal mucosa may lead to diminishing bicarbonate and mucus secretion and may contribute to the mucosal damage caused by NSAIDs. Misoprostol can increase bicarbonate and mucus production, but it has been shown at doses 200 mcg and above that are also antisecretory. It is therefore not possible to differentiate whether the ability of misoprostol to reduce the risk of gastric and duodenal ulcers is the result of its antisecretory effect, its mucosal protective effect, or both. In vitro studies on canine parietal cells using titrated misoprostol acid as the ligand have led to the identification and characterization of specific prostaglandin receptors. Receptor binding is saturable, reversible, and stereo-specific. The sites have a high affinity for misoprostol, for its acid metabolite, and for other E type prostaglandins, but not for F or I prostaglandins and other unrelated compounds, such as histamine or cimetidine. Receptor-site affinity for misoprostol correlates well with an indirect index of antisecretory activity. It is likely that these specific receptors allow misoprostol taken with food to be effective topically, despite the lower serum concentrations attained. Misoprostol, over the range of 50 mcg to 200 mcg, inhibits basal and nocturnal gastric acid secretion, and acid secretion in response to a variety of stimuli, including meals, histamine, pentagastrin, and coffee. Activity is apparent 30 minutes after oral administration and persists for at least 3 hours. In general, the effects of 50 mcg were modest and shorter-lived, and only the 200 mcg dose had substantial effects on nocturnal secretion or on histamine- and meal-stimulated secretion. Misoprostol also produces a moderate decrease in pepsin concentration during basal conditions, but not during histamine stimulation. It has no significant effect on fasting or postprandial gastrin nor intrinsic factor output.

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

11 DESCRIPTION ARTHROTEC is a combination product containing diclofenac sodium, an NSAID with analgesic properties, and misoprostol, a gastrointestinal (GI) mucosal protective prostaglandin-1 (PGE1) analog. ARTHROTEC tablets are white to off-white, round, biconvex, and approximately 11 mm in diameter. Each tablet consists of an enteric-coated core containing 50 mg (ARTHROTEC 50) or 75 mg (ARTHROTEC 75) of diclofenac sodium (equivalent to 46.39 mg or 69.58 mg of diclofenac, respectively) surrounded by an outer mantle containing 200 mcg misoprostol. Diclofenac sodium is a phenylacetic acid derivative that is a white to off-white, virtually odorless, crystalline powder. Diclofenac sodium is freely soluble in methanol, soluble in ethanol, and practically insoluble in chloroform and in dilute acid. Diclofenac sodium is sparingly soluble in water. Its chemical formula and name are: C 14 H 10 Cl 2 NO 2 Na [M.W. = 318.14] 2-[(2,6-dichlorophenyl) amino] benzeneacetic acid, monosodium salt. Misoprostol is a water-soluble, viscous liquid that contains approximately equal amounts of two diastereomers. Its chemical formula and name are: C 22 H 38 O 5 [M.W. = 382.54] (±) methyl 11α,16-dihydroxy-16-methyl-9-oxoprost-13E-en-1-oate. Inactive ingredients in ARTHROTEC include: colloidal silicon dioxide; crospovidone; hydrogenated castor oil; hypromellose; lactose; magnesium stearate; methacrylic acid copolymer; microcrystalline cellulose; povidone (polyvidone) K-30; sodium hydroxide; starch (corn); talc; triethyl citrate.

10 OVERDOSAGE Manage patients with symptomatic and supportive care following an acute NSAID overdosage. There are no specific antidotes. It is advisable to contact a poison control center (1-800-222-1222) to determine the latest recommendations because strategies for the management of overdose are continually evolving. The toxic dose of ARTHROTEC has not been determined. However, signs of overdosage from the components of the product have been described. Diclofenac Symptoms following acute NSAID overdosages have been typically limited to lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and epigastric pain, which have been generally reversible with supportive care. Gastrointestinal bleeding has occurred. Hypertension, acute renal failure, respiratory depression, and coma have occurred, but were rare [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2 , 5.3 , 5.5 , 5.7) ] . Clinical signs that may suggest diclofenac sodium overdose include GI complaints, confusion, drowsiness, or general hypotonia. If gastric decontamination may be potentially beneficial to the patient, e.g., short time since ingestion or a large overdosage (5 to 10 times the recommended dosage), consider emesis and/or activated charcoal (60 grams to 100 grams in adults, 1 gram to 2 grams per kg of body weight in pediatric patients) and/or an osmotic cathartic in symptomatic patients. Forced diuresis, alkalinization of urine, hemodialysis, or hemoperfusion may not be useful due to high protein binding. Misoprostol The toxic dose of misoprostol in humans has not been determined. Cumulative total daily doses of 1600 mcg have been tolerated, with only symptoms of GI discomfort being reported. Clinical signs that may indicate an overdose are sedation, tremor, convulsions, dyspnea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, palpitations, hypotension, or bradycardia. ARTHROTEC Symptoms of acute overdosage with ARTHROTEC should be treated with supportive and symptomatic therapy. There are no specific antidotes. In case of acute overdosage, emesisis and/or gastric lavage may be considered dependent upon amount ingested and time since ingestion. The use of oral activated charcoal may help to reduce the absorption of diclofenac sodium and misoprostol. Induced diuresis may be beneficial because diclofenac sodium and misoprostol metabolites are excreted in the urine. The effect of dialysis or hemoperfusion on the elimination of diclofenac sodium (99% protein bound) and misoprostol acid remains unproven.

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING ARTHROTEC (diclofenac sodium and misoprostol delayed-release tablets) are supplied as: • 50 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol as round, biconvex, white to off-white tablets imprinted with four "A's" encircling a "50" in the middle on one side and "SEARLE" and "1411" on the other. • 75 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol as round, biconvex, white to off-white tablets imprinted with four "A's" encircling a "75" in the middle on one side and "SEARLE" and "1421" on the other. The dosage strengths are supplied in: Strength NDC Number Size ARTHROTEC 50 50 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol 0025-1411-60 bottle of 60 0025-1411-90 bottle of 90 ARTHROTEC 75 75 mg diclofenac sodium and 200 mcg misoprostol 0025-1421-60 bottle of 60 Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
155,967
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: DICLOFENAC SODIUM. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
0025-1411-60 0025-1411 Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc 60 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0025-1411-60) December 24, 1997
0025-1411-90 0025-1411 Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc 90 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0025-1411-90) December 24, 1997
0025-1421-60 0025-1421 Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc 60 TABLET, FILM COATED in 1 BOTTLE (0025-1421-60) December 24, 1997
0025-1411 0025-1411 Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc — December 24, 1997
0025-1421 0025-1421 Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc — December 24, 1997

Sources for this page

Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Orange Book FDA Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts

Generated September 25, 2026 · 11 sections on this page.