Diclofenac Sodium

Where is Diclofenac Sodium used?

Diclofenac Sodium is used to relieve inflammation and pain in a wide range of conditions including:

  • Acute gout
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Migraine 

This is a type of medicine called a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). This helps lessen the symptoms and helps you do more of your normal daily activities. Diclofenac Sodium is a prescription approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

How does Diclofenac Sodium work?

Diclofenac Sodium works by stopping an enzyme in the body called cyclo-oxygenase (COX) from working. If you have an injury or a condition like arthritis, the COX in your body usually creates substances called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins cause swelling, pain, and inflammation. This medication stops COX from making these prostaglandins and reduces inflammation and pain.

This medication will start to relieve pain and inflammation after a single dose. However, its anti-inflammatory effect will continue to build up over a few weeks of taking it regularly.

How is Diclofenac Sodium taken?

The dosage of this medication will depend on your medical condition. Your doctor may instruct you to start at a lower dose. Do not take more or less than the prescription. You must take Diclofenac Sodium exactly as it is given by your doctor.

Diclofenac Sodium is to be taken by mouth as directed by your doctor. You may take each dose with or without food. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking a dose. It is important to continue taking this even if you feel well. Do not suddenly stop taking Diclofenac Sodium without the consent of your doctor. Take this medicine at the same time and in the same way each day. With a full glass of water, swallow the medicine as a whole. If you missed a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. Skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule if it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed dose.  

What are the precautions in taking Diclofenac Sodium?

  • If you are a breastfeeding woman, consult your doctor first before taking this drug. 
  • This medication causes drowsiness, dizziness, or visual disturbances. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you and is sure it won’t affect your performance. 
  • Do not take Diclofenac Sodium if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. 
  • Tell your doctor if you have any allergies or if you ever had an allergic reaction to this medication before. 
  • This is not recommended for use in people with severe liver failure or kidney failure, those in the last three months of pregnancy, who have heart disease, stroke, or poor blood circulation in legs or feet. 
  • It is usually fine to drink alcohol in moderation if you’re taking Diclofenac Sodium. Take note that long-term use or high doses of this medicine may have a risk of irritating the stomach lining and drinking alcohol more than the daily suggested limit.
  • Some people may need a lower dose or extra monitoring from your doctor when taking Diclofenac Sodium. Make sure you tell your doctor if you are over 65 years old and have ever had a disorder affecting your stomach or intestines.