Clofenac
Generic Name
Clofenac
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| clofenac 1 w gel | ৳ 40.00 | N/A |
| clofenac 50 mg tablet | ৳ 2.00 | ৳ 20.00 |
| clofenac 25 mg suppository | ৳ 16.00 | N/A |
| clofenac 50 mg suppository | ৳ 20.00 | N/A |
| clofenac 125 mg suppository | ৳ 12.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Clofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, swelling, and joint stiffness caused by arthritis, sprains, and other conditions. It works by blocking the body's production of certain natural substances that cause inflammation.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Typically 50-150 mg daily in divided doses. For acute conditions, 50 mg three times daily. For long-term use, 75-100 mg daily in divided doses.
Elderly
Start with the lowest effective dose. Close monitoring is recommended due to increased risk of side effects.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution and monitor renal function. Dosage adjustment may be necessary in severe impairment.
How to Take
Take oral tablets preferably with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. Do not crush, chew, or break sustained-release tablets.
Mechanism of Action
Clofenac inhibits cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzymes, which are responsible for the synthesis of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are mediators of inflammation, pain, and fever. By inhibiting their synthesis, Clofenac reduces these symptoms.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Analgesic effect within 30 minutes; anti-inflammatory effects develop over several days to weeks.
Excretion
Excreted primarily through urine (approximately 60%) and bile/feces (approximately 30-40%) as metabolites.
Half life
The plasma elimination half-life is approximately 1-2 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract following oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved in approximately 1-2 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by hydroxylation and glucuronidation. Major metabolite is 4'-hydroxydiclofenac.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Clofenac or other NSAIDs
- Active gastrointestinal bleeding or peptic ulcer
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment
- Severe heart failure
- Third trimester of pregnancy
- History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Increased plasma lithium levels.
Methotrexate
Increased plasma concentrations of methotrexate, potentially leading to toxicity.
Diuretics and ACE inhibitors
Reduced antihypertensive effect and increased risk of renal impairment.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased risk of bleeding.
Antiplatelet agents (e.g., Aspirin)
Increased risk of GI bleeding and ulceration.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, GI bleeding, hypotension, respiratory depression, and coma. Management is supportive and symptomatic; there is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C (first and second trimesters), Category D (third trimester). Avoid in the third trimester due to potential adverse effects on the fetus (premature closure of ductus arteriosus). Use with caution during lactation; small amounts may pass into breast milk.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to Clofenac or other NSAIDs
- Active gastrointestinal bleeding or peptic ulcer
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment
- Severe heart failure
- Third trimester of pregnancy
- History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Increased plasma lithium levels.
Methotrexate
Increased plasma concentrations of methotrexate, potentially leading to toxicity.
Diuretics and ACE inhibitors
Reduced antihypertensive effect and increased risk of renal impairment.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased risk of bleeding.
Antiplatelet agents (e.g., Aspirin)
Increased risk of GI bleeding and ulceration.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, GI bleeding, hypotension, respiratory depression, and coma. Management is supportive and symptomatic; there is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C (first and second trimesters), Category D (third trimester). Avoid in the third trimester due to potential adverse effects on the fetus (premature closure of ductus arteriosus). Use with caution during lactation; small amounts may pass into breast milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture. Check the expiry date on the packaging.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Widely approved globally
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of Clofenac for its approved indications. Ongoing research continues to explore new applications and refine existing dosage regimens.
Doctor Notes
- Prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals.
- Consider gastroprotective agents for patients at high risk of GI complications.
- Monitor blood pressure, renal function, and liver function periodically, especially in elderly or high-risk patients.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Clofenac exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.
- Report any unusual bleeding, bruising, or severe stomach pain to your doctor immediately.
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Clofenac may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances in some patients. Patients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medicine affects them.
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