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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Why Is Diclofenac Not As Effective As Arthrotec For Severe Back Pain?

I have been taking the medication Arthrotec 75 tabs Ec60 s/75/2mg since 2002 because I have a bad back and had surgery in 2012. I had collapsed lumbar discs. herniated discs and severe degenerative arthritis. It really does help my pain. Now that I am on a medicare prescription plan thru express scripts they are sending me the Diclofenac and it does not relieve the pain. what is in the Arthrotec that makes it better. It must be something good because we had to pay over $600.oo out of our pocket for it. the insurance co. said that I have to get a letter from my doctor saying that I have to have the brand, and I do not think they are going to authorize it. What is my recourse. Thank You. Debbie Davis
Tue, 7 Nov 2017
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Orthopaedic Surgeon,  's  Response
Dear patient
arthrotec contains diclofenac and misoprostol. misoprostol is added to prevent gastritis which may occur due to use of diclofenac. if arthrotec is effective than diclofenac alone should also be effective. only thing is you have to take antacid along with diclofenac. Slight difference in effectiveness may occur if drug manufacturer company is changed because of bioavalability.
So don't worry and you can take diclofenac.
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Why Is Diclofenac Not As Effective As Arthrotec For Severe Back Pain?

Dear patient arthrotec contains diclofenac and misoprostol. misoprostol is added to prevent gastritis which may occur due to use of diclofenac. if arthrotec is effective than diclofenac alone should also be effective. only thing is you have to take antacid along with diclofenac. Slight difference in effectiveness may occur if drug manufacturer company is changed because of bioavalability. So don t worry and you can take diclofenac.