Diclofenac
Description
Diclofenac is a medicine used to relieve pain, swelling, and inflammation. It b
elongs to the class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and works by reducing the chemicals in the body that cause pain and inflammation. Diclofenac is commonly used to ease pain, stiffness, and swelling associated with arthritis, gout, and ankylosing spondylitis. It is also effective in relieving pain after surgery, injury, or dental procedures. The medicine should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor, in the recommended dose and duration. It is usually advised to take diclofenac with or after meals to prevent stomach upset. Before starting treatment, inform your doctor if you smoke, have diabetes, blood clotting problems, heart disease, kidney or liver issues, or any other medical condition. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and report any unusual symptoms or side effects promptly.
Uses
- To relieve pain, stiffness and swelling of the joints in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, ankylosing spondylitis.
- It helps in relieving pain following dental surgery, pain after an operation and surgical procedures, pain due to minor injury etc.
Contraindications
When should one not use Diclofenac
- If you are allergic to diclofenac.
- If you have or have had stomach or intestinal ulcers or bleeding problems in the gut.
- If you suffer from heart problems like a heart attack, stroke or heart failure.
- If you have developed allergic reactions or bowel problems after taking a painkiller in the past.
- If you have problems with the liver or kidneys.
- If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or a woman of childbearing age not using contraceptive measures.
Side effects
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhoea
- Indigestion
- Constipation
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Heartburn
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Diclofenac during pregnancy?
A:
Diclofenac must not be taken during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, as it may cause harmful effects in the unborn baby. If you get pregnant while on treatment, you should immediately consult a doctor.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Diclofenac while breastfeeding?
A:
Diclofenac is known to pass into breast milk. A decision of whether to discontinue breastfeeding or treatment should be made by a doctor, considering the importance of treatment for the mother and the health benefits of breastfeeding for the baby.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Diclofenac?
A:
Diclofenac is known to cause side effects like dizziness and drowsiness. Thus, avoid driving or operating machines if you experience these side effects.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Diclofenac?
A:
Although there is no known interaction between alcohol and diclofenac, it is essential to consult a physician if you have a habit of regular drinking. Consuming alcohol while taking pain killers is known to increase the risk of bleeding, ulcer and perforation in the stomach and intestine (upper gastrointestinal tract).
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You may experience problems with your heart, liver, or kidneys.
- You may suffer from stomach or intestinal diseases.
- You are above 60 years of age.
- You smoke and consume alcohol in excess or too often.
- You may suffer from a condition called porphyria.
- You may suffer from a blood or bleeding disorder.
- You may have lupus or a similar condition.
- You may have problems with circulation.
- You may have asthma, diabetes or high blood cholesterol.
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
Diclofenac blocks the action of certain chemical substances (prostaglandins) that are responsible for pain and inflammation; thus, it helps to ease pain and reduce swelling.
Interactions
Interactions with other medicines
- Diuretics may have reduced effectiveness or increase kidney-related side effects when taken with diclofenac.
- Blood thinners such as warfarin or acenocoumarol may increase the risk of bleeding.
- Medications for high blood pressure may become less effective.
- Diabetes medications may affect blood sugar control, requiring closer monitoring.
- Taking other pain relievers or NSAIDs together may increase the risk of stomach or kidney problems.
- Immunomodulators may increase the risk of infections or other side effects.
- Certain anti-infectives, such as some antibiotics or antivirals, may alter diclofenac levels or increase its side effects.
- Steroids, also known as corticosteroids, may increase the risk of stomach irritation, ulcers, or bleeding.
- Medications for heart conditions may raise the risk of cardiovascular side effects.
- Antacids may reduce absorption of diclofenac; follow your doctor’s instructions.
- Cholesterol-lowering medicines may affect how diclofenac is metabolised.
- Do not take diclofenac within 8–12 days after using mifepristone.
- Always inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking to avoid interactions.
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Ravindra Ghongade
B. Pharm
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Nikita Toshi
BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the use of Diclofenac?
A: Diclofenac is used to relieve pain, inflammation, and swelling in muscles, joints, and bones associated with arthritis, spondylitis, and sports injuries. It is used after operations and surgeries to relieve pain, inflammation and swelling.
Q: How to take Diclofenac?
- Diclofenac must be taken as directed by the doctor. Take the medicine with a glass of water, with or after food. Do not cut, break or chew the medicine.
Q: Is there a risk associated with the use of Diclofenac?
- The use of painkillers may be associated with the risk of conditions related to the heart, bleeding and ulcer in the digestive tract. The risk may be higher when the medicine is used for a prolonged duration and in people with an existing heart condition and with a risk factor of getting such a condition....
References
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