Cambia

Cambia is a prescription drug used for the treatment of migraine headaches after they have started. The drug does not help prevent migraines. Nausea and dizziness are a few common side effects of this product. The medicine comes in the form of a powder that is mixed with water and is taken immediately after a migraine has started.

What Is Cambia?

Cambia (diclofenac potassium) is a prescription medication approved for the treatment of migraine headaches. It comes in the form of a powder that is mixed with water before each dose.
 
(Click Cambia Uses for more information on what the medication is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Cambia?

Cambia is made by Kowa Pharmaceuticals America, Inc.
 

How Does Cambia Work?

Cambia belongs to a group of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Like other NSAIDs, it works by blocking a specific enzyme known as cyclooxygenase (COX) and by blocking the production of various inflammatory substances in the body.
 

Clinical Effects of Cambia

This medication has been thoroughly evaluated in clinical studies. These studies compared Cambia to a placebo (a similar product that does not contain any active ingredients). Up to 65 percent of people who took Cambia experienced pain relief within two hours (compared with up to 41 percent of people taking the placebo).
 

When and How to Take Cambia

Some general considerations include the following:
 
  • The medicine is taken to treat a migraine that is already occurring (it is not used to prevent migraines).
     
  • Open the packet, empty the powder into a cup, and add one to two ounces (30 to 60 mL) of water. Mix and drink immediately.
     
  • Do not mix the powder with any liquid other than water.
     
  • This medication works best when taken on an empty stomach.
     
  • For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed.
     

Dosing Information

There is only one standard dosage for this drug, regardless of your age or weight. As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 
(Click Cambia Dosage for more information.)
 

Side Effects

As with any medicine, Cambia may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
 
If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
In studies, nausea and dizziness were the most common side effects of Cambia.
 
(Click Cambia Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 

Drug Interactions

Cambia can potentially interact with several other medications (see Cambia Drug Interactions).
 

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking It?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this product if you have:
 
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
 
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
 
(Click Cambia Warnings and Precautions to learn more, including information on who should not take the drug.)
 

Overdose Information

An overdose with this medication may cause serious effects. Seek immediate medical attention if you or someone else may have overdosed on Cambia.
 
(Click Cambia Overdose for more information.)
 

Storage Information

Cambia should be stored at room temperature. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children and pets.
 

Strengths Available

Cambia comes in 50 mg packets.
 

Is There a Generic Version of Cambia?

Currently, the drug is not available in generic form.
 
(Click Generic Cambia for more information.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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