Diclofenac injection

About Diclofenac injection

Diclofenac injection is a potent nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) manufactured by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. Each milliliter contains 25 mg of diclofenac sodium, and it is supplied as a 3 ml solution in a single-dose vial, providing 75 mg of active ingredient. This injectable formulation is designed for rapid relief of acute pain and inflammation when oral therapy is not suitable or fast action is needed.

Typically prescribed for short-term management of moderate to severe pain, Diclofenac injection is administered by a healthcare professional into the muscle (intramuscularly). Patients can expect noticeable pain reduction within 15 to 30 minutes, with the anti-inflammatory effect peaking over a few hours. It is commonly used in hospital settings for acute musculoskeletal conditions, post-surgical pain, and renal colic.

Quick Facts

Key Benefits

• Rapid pain relief — Intramuscular injection provides faster onset of action compared to oral tablets, often within 15–30 minutes.
• Potent anti-inflammatory action — Reduces swelling and inflammation at the site of injury or disease, aiding recovery.
• Versatile pain management — Effective for various acute painful conditions, including renal colic, acute gout, and post-operative pain.
• Convenient when oral route is unsuitable — Ideal for patients who cannot take oral medication due to nausea, vomiting, or surgery.

What Diclofenac injection Is Used For

Diclofenac injection is prescribed for the short-term treatment of acute moderate to severe pain and inflammation.

• Acute exacerbations of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
• Renal colic (kidney stone pain)
• Post-operative pain and inflammation
• Acute musculoskeletal injuries (sprains, strains, fractures)

How to Take Diclofenac injection

Diclofenac injection is administered by a doctor or nurse as an intramuscular injection, typically into the gluteal muscle or lateral thigh. It is not intended for self-administration. The injection is given once or twice daily as needed, usually for a maximum of 2–3 days. The needle is inserted deep into the muscle, and the solution is injected slowly to minimize discomfort. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions precisely.

• This medicine is given as an injection into a muscle.
• The usual dose is one 75 mg vial (3 ml) once or twice daily.
• Treatment is typically limited to a few days; longer use increases the risk of side effects.

Missed Dose & Overdose

• Missed dose: If a scheduled injection is missed, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
• Overdose: An overdose of diclofenac can cause severe symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness, and even kidney failure. Seek emergency medical help immediately.

Storage & Handling

Store Diclofenac injection vials at room temperature between 15°C and 25°C (59°F–77°F). Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach and sight of children and pets. Unused or expired vials should be disposed of by a pharmacist or healthcare professional.

How it works

Diclofenac works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that cause pain, inflammation, and fever. It inhibits both cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzymes, reducing the synthesis of prostaglandins from arachidonic acid.

Side effects

Most people tolerate Diclofenac injection well. Side effects are usually mild and settle as the body adjusts.

Common side effects

• Injection site pain, redness, or swelling — applying a cold pack may help
• Nausea or indigestion — taking with food (if oral form is used later) can reduce stomach upset
• Headache or dizziness — rest and avoid driving if affected

Seek medical help immediately if you notice

• Black or bloody stools — could indicate stomach bleeding
• Swelling of face, lips, or tongue — sign of a serious allergic reaction

Who should not take this

• Allergy: Do not use if you are allergic to diclofenac, aspirin, or other NSAIDs, or if you have experienced asthma, rhinitis, or urticaria after taking them.
• Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Not recommended in the third trimester; consult your doctor before use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• Existing conditions: Use with caution in patients with a history of stomach ulcers, bleeding disorders, severe heart failure, liver or kidney disease.
• Drug interactions: May interact with blood thinners (warfarin), other NSAIDs, lithium, methotrexate, and certain blood pressure medicines.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol while using diclofenac, as it increases the risk of stomach bleeding.