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Diclofenac

Diclofenac (often recognised by brands such as Voltaren and Voltarol) serves as an effective anti-inflammatory medication for managing pain and joint inflammation. It is listed here as generic diclofenac 50mg and 100mg tablets.

Medicine containing Diclofenac

Diclofenac

Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis

50 · 100mg

Diclofenac 50mg and 100mg tablets, an anti-inflammatory painkiller (NSAID) for arthritis pain and swelling.

FromUS$0.31/ tabletView

Key points

  • An NSAID that eases pain and swelling by cutting the body’s output of prostaglandins, the chemicals that drive inflammation.
  • Used for joint conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, as well as short episodes of acute musculoskeletal pain.
  • Comes as gastro-resistant, modified-release, prolonged-release or standard tablets, each offering a different rate of absorption.
  • A history of stomach ulcers, heart disease or asthma is worth flagging beforehand, given possible interactions with blood-thinning and blood-pressure medicines.

What is Diclofenac?

Diclofenac belongs to the class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, commonly known as NSAIDs. It acts by targeting inflammation and reducing pain associated with sensitive tissues. Because symptoms manifest differently for everyone, manufacturers provide various formulations to suit different relief requirements.

What Diclofenac is used for

The medication is commonly utilised to address symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis. Diclofenac also targets rigidity caused by Ankylosing Spondylitis and provides relief from episodes of Acute Musculoskeletal Pain.

How does Diclofenac work?

The medication reduces the production of prostaglandins, which are substances in your body that trigger pain and swelling. By inhibiting the enzymes responsible for this production, it eases discomfort and assists in reducing systemic inflammation.

Diclofenac brands and forms

Branded versions include Voltarol, Voltaren, Dicloflex, Flamrase, and Motifene, alongside generic formulations. These options are standard within Pain Management. The listed product is a standard tablet.

Safety overview for Diclofenac

What to check before using this medicine

Review your medical history for conditions such as stomach ulcers, cardiovascular disease, or asthma. Discussing any pre-existing health factors with your provider is necessary before starting this treatment.

Possible reactions and tolerability

Sensitive individuals may experience gastrointestinal upset or skin sensitivity. Tolerance varies based on the individual and the dosage form selected.

Interactions and health factors

Diclofenac may interact with other pain relievers, blood-thinning agents, or medications for high blood pressure. Product labelling and verified clinical sources remain the correct references for specific contraindications, interactions and reactions.

What the sources say

  • NSAIDs, including diclofenac, increase the risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may occur early in treatment and may increase with duration of use. (DailyMed)
  • NSAIDs cause an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events, including bleeding, ulceration and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms, and elderly patients and those with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or gastrointestinal bleeding are at greater risk. (DailyMed)
  • NSAIDs, including diclofenac, should be avoided in pregnant women at about 30 weeks gestation and later because of the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus. (DailyMed)

Further reading

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