What are the possible side effects of Arthrotec?

People taking the arthritis drug Arthrotec (diclofenac and misoprostol) may experience side effects. Common ones include gas, bloating and diarrhea; unless these symptoms are severe, you probably won’t need to call your doctor.

However, the following side effects can be serious and require immediate medical attention. Stop taking Arthrotec and call your doctor if you develop any of the following:

• signs of heart attack or stroke, including chest pain, trouble breathing, weakness on one side of your body or slurred speech
• stomach pain, heartburn, vomiting a substance that is bloody or looks like coffee grounds, blood in the stool or black and tarry stools
• skin rashes or blistering
• unexplained weight gain; excessive fatigue; loss of appetite; pain in the upper right part of your abdomen; yellowing skin or eyes; flu-like symptoms; pale skin; a rapid heartbeat; headache; stiff neck; sore throat; muscle pain; confusion; sensitivity to light; fever; swelling of the eyes, lips, face, hands or feet; unusual vaginal bleeding; cloudy, discolored or bloody urine; back pain; or trouble urinating