DICLOFENAC
Background and Date of Approval
The U.S. FDA approved Diclofenac on December 10, 2007, for managing pain and inflammation. It belongs to the class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis.
Uses
Diclofenac reduces pain, swelling, and inflammation in conditions affecting joints, muscles, and tendons, conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, frozen shoulder, and dislocations. Additionally, it is also used for pain and inflammation after dental and minor surgery.
How is it administered?
Diclofenac Suppository: Empty your bowels before insertion, and wash your hands thoroughly. Lie on one side with your knees bent, and gently insert the suppository into your rectum using your finger. Push it up comfortably and lower your legs, remaining still for a few minutes. If the urge to expel arises, resist it by lying still and pressing your buttocks together. Maintain the suppository in the rectum to allow for dissolution and absorption. Finally, wash your hands for proper hygiene. Diclofenac Patch: Take the Diclofenac as your physician advises. Read the label carefully before using it. Clean the area of skin where you will apply the patch. Remove the backing from the patch and apply it to the skin, ensuring the entire patch is in contact with the skin. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking this if your doctor advises you to stop.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Diclofenac are loss of appetite, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, a sensation of whirling, and loss of balance. Serious side effects while taking Diclofenac are cramping, tenderness of the abdomen, bloody diarrhea, bleeding, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, indigestion, swollen face, hands, or fingers, rash, itching, blistering or peeling, shortness of breath, rashes, yellowing of eyes or skin, high fever, persistent sore throat, irregular heartbeat, chest pain, or any signs of inability to lift arms, speak, or facial drooping.
Warnings
Do not use Diclofenac if you are allergic to Diclofenac, aspirin, ibuprofen, other NSAIDs, or any of its ingredients. Avoid if you have a history of stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, or adverse reactions to NSAIDs. It is also not recommended for severe heart, kidney, or liver failure, established heart or cerebrovascular disease, peripheral arterial disease, or if you are beyond six months pregnant. Refrain from using if you experience bowel issues, diarrhea, or rectal bleeding.
Precautions
This medicine may impact fertility, so if you are planning to get pregnant or facing difficulties in get pregnant, consult your healthcare provider before use. It is not recommended for children. Inform your doctor about any stomach, bowel, liver, kidney, bleeding disorders, asthma, allergies, breastfeeding, angina, blood clots, high blood pressure, cholesterol/triglyceride issues, heart problems, stroke history, or risk factors for these conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking habits. Also, notify if you have Lupus or similar conditions before using Diclofenac.
Word of Advice
Before beginning treatment, inform your doctor about any existing medical conditions. Continue using the medicine as prescribed and do not discontinue it unless advised by your doctor. If you miss a dose, do not take an extra dose to compensate. Inform your doctor promptly if you develop any severe or concerning side effects. Consult your doctor if you need further information or guidance about the treatment.
References
Goodman & Gilmanâs, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and analgesic agents; Pharmacotherapy of gout, 12th edition, 2011, 987. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antipyretic-analgesics, 7th edition, 2013, 204. Mercury Pharma Group Ltd, Electronic medicines compendium (emc), [ Revised on Dec 2021] [ Accessed on 18th July 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.5750.pdf RA Alfaro et al; Diclofenac; NCBI Bookshelf; [Updated on June 2021] [Accessed on 18th July 2023]; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557879/
Frequently Asked Questions
How to manage the side effects of Diclofenac?
To manage the side effects of Diclofenac, follow the prescribed dosage, and report side effects promptly. Try drinking plenty of fluids and eating bland foods. Take the drug with food or milk. This can help to reduce the risk of stomach upset. Maintain a healthy lifestyle by following a balanced diet and attending follow-up appointments.
Can children use Diclofenac?
It is not recommended to use in children. Consult a healthcare professional for more details about using Diclofenac. The suitability of any medication depends on factors such as age, weight, and specific medical conditions.
What are the side effects of Diclofenac?
Common side effects of Diclofenac include loss of appetite, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, a sensation of whirling, and loss of balance. It is crucial to consult your doctor for any concerns or persistent side effects.
Can Diclofenac be taken during pregnancy?
It is unsafe to use Diclofenac during the final trimester of pregnancy, as it may potentially impact the circulation of the baby. The potential benefits and risks of the medicine should be carefully assessed.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Diclofenac?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose of the Diclofenac.