Diclofenac Oral
Uses of Diclofenac Oral
Diclofenac is used in the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis, ankylosing spondylitis, gout, and mouth ulcers. It is commonly used as a pain reliever for arthralgia (joint pain), dental pain, eye pain, musculoskeletal pain, pain during menstruation, post-operative pain and rheumatic pain.
How Diclofenac Oral Works
Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) derived from phenylacetic acid. It can be used as anti-inflammatory, analgesic or antipyretic drug. It acts as a reversible inhibitor for cyclooxygenase-1 and 2, and as a result, it inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandin.
Side Effects of Diclofenac Oral
Nausea, Diarrhea, Vomiting, Abdominal pain, Blurred vision, Itchiness, Edema, Dizziness, Rash, Headache
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
In patients with renal impairment, it is important to use this drug with caution as NSAIDs may cause kidney function to deteriorate. Since Diclofenac Oral is eliminated mainly by the kidneys, close monitoring is required for patients with significant impairment of kidney function.
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is advisable to avoid or limit alcohol intake while taking Diclofenac Oral. This is because alcohol can irritate the stomach and may cause gastrointestinal bleeding.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Category B warning for topical Diclofenac Oral 3% gel Category C warning for all preparations in women with less than 30 weeks gestation pregnancy Category D warning for all preparations in women with more than 30 weeks gestation pregnancy
Driving Generally Safe
Diclofenac Oral usually does not affect the ability to drive. Do not drive unless you are well.
Liver Limited Data
Diclofenac Oral should be used with caution in patients with liver disease as there is an increased risk of gastrointestinal hemorrhage and fluid retention. Patients with severe liver disease should try to avoid taking Diclofenac Oral.
Lactation Limited Data
There is limited data on the usage of Diclofenac Oral during breastfeeding. It is found that Diclofenac Oral is excreted in very little quantities in breast milk and not adequate to cause harmful effects. However, it is advisable to practice caution while taking Diclofenac Oral during breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
