Diclofenac Sodium

Overview

Diclofenac Sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that belongs to the phenylacetic acid derivative class. It is widely used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation (swelling), and lower fever. It works in conditions such as arthritis, acute injuries, and menstrual cramps.

How Diclofenac Sodium works

Diclofenac Sodium works by blocking the action of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, specifically COX-1 and COX-2. These enzymes produce prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. By reducing prostaglandin production, diclofenac helps relieve pain and swelling.

Uses

• Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Acute musculoskeletal pain (e.g., sprains, strains)
• Dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps)
• Acute gout
• Postoperative pain

Side effects

• Common: nausea, indigestion, abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, dizziness
• Serious: gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration, cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke), kidney impairment, severe allergic reactions, liver damage

Precautions

• Avoid in patients with active or history of peptic ulcer, GI bleeding, or inflammatory bowel disease
• Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or risk factors for heart disease
• Can worsen renal function; avoid in severe kidney disease
• May mask signs of infection; not recommended in third trimester of pregnancy
• Interactions: anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), antiplatelets, methotrexate, lithium, SSRIs, diuretics