Diclofenac is a medication with the active ingredient Diclofenac Sodium or Diclofenac Potassium. It is also known by brand names such as Voltaren, Cataflam, and Zipsor. This drug is used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in conditions like arthritis, muscle aches, and sprains.
You can expect to pay between £0.23 and £0.35 for Diclofenac per pills. Prices vary with the packaging size and active ingredient quantity (90 or 360 mg).
Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) primarily used to treat pain and inflammation. It is effective in reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation. Diclofenac is available in multiple forms, including oral tablets, topical gels, eye drops, and injectable solutions.
Diclofenac works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are responsible for the synthesis of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are lipid compounds that mediate various physiological functions, including inflammation and pain. By blocking COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, diclofenac reduces the formation of these inflammatory mediators.
The absorption of diclofenac varies by formulation. Oral diclofenac is absorbed well, with a bioavailability of about 50-60%. Topical forms penetrate the skin to reach underlying tissues. The drug is highly protein-bound, primarily to albumin. Diclofenac is metabolized in the liver via cytochrome P450 enzymes, particularly CYP2C9, and is primarily excreted through the urine and bile.
Diclofenac is indicated for the management of pain and inflammatory disorders. Common conditions treated include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and acute muscle pain. It is also used to treat migraine attacks and postoperative pain. Additionally, diclofenac eye drops are used to reduce inflammation after eye surgery.
The dosage of diclofenac varies depending on the condition being treated, the patient’s age, and the formulation used. For adults using oral tablets, the typical dose ranges from 50-100 mg, taken two to three times daily. Topical formulations are applied to the affected area two to four times a day. For postoperative eye inflammation, a single drop of diclofenac eye drops is typically administered four to six times daily.
Diclofenac may interact with other medications, such as anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), other NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These interactions can increase the risk of bleeding, gastrointestinal ulceration, and renal impairment. Additionally, diclofenac may reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive agents such as ACE inhibitors and diuretics.
Common adverse effects of diclofenac include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, dyspepsia, and abdominal pain. It may also cause dizziness, headache, and skin rash. Serious adverse effects include gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, and renal impairment. Long-term use may increase the risk of cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction and stroke.
Diclofenac is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug, history of asthma or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs, and those with active gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration. It is also contraindicated in patients with significant renal or hepatic impairment and those with established cardiovascular disease for long-term management.
For elderly patients, caution is advised due to the increased risk of adverse effects. Dose adjustments may be necessary for patients with renal or hepatic impairment. In pregnant women, diclofenac should be avoided, particularly in the third trimester, due to the risk of fetal harm. It is also advised to use caution when prescribing diclofenac to breastfeeding mothers.
Oral diclofenac should be taken with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. Topical forms should be applied to clean, dry skin, avoiding open wounds or mucous membranes. Eye drops should be used with care to avoid contamination of the dropper tip. Injectable forms should be administered by healthcare professionals in a clinical setting.
Diclofenac should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Oral tablets and topical gels should be kept in tightly-closed containers. Eye drops should be discarded after the recommended period, usually four weeks after opening. Injectable solutions should be used immediately after opening and any unused portions discarded.
Diclofenac is available under several brand names, including Voltaren, Cataflam, and Zipsor. Formulations include oral tablets, extended-release tablets, topical gels, patches, eye drops, and injectable solutions. Each brand may have specific indications, usage instructions, and dosage forms tailored to different treatment needs.
Patients should be informed about the signs and symptoms of serious adverse effects, such as gastrointestinal bleeding (e.g., black tarry stools, severe stomach pain) and cardiovascular events (e.g., chest pain, shortness of breath). Regular monitoring may be required for long-term users, including laboratory tests for renal and hepatic function, as well as blood pressure monitoring. Patients should be encouraged to inform healthcare providers about all medications and supplements they are taking to avoid potential interactions.