Diclofenac
Generic Name
diclofenac-50-mg-tablet
Manufacturer
Various manufacturers globally
Country
Global
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| diclofenac 50 mg tablet | ৳ 0.88 | ৳ 8.80 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain, inflammation, and fever. It works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Usually 50 mg 2-3 times daily or 75 mg twice daily. Maximum 150 mg/day.
Elderly
Lower doses should be considered, and patients monitored for adverse effects.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution; a reduced dose may be necessary. Not recommended in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
For oral use. Tablets should be swallowed whole, preferably with food or milk to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Do not crush or chew enteric-coated tablets.
Mechanism of Action
Diclofenac inhibits the activity of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, which are responsible for the synthesis of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are mediators of pain, inflammation, and fever.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Approximately 30-60 minutes.
Excretion
Excreted through urine (approximately 60%) and bile/feces (approximately 30-40%).
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is 1-2 hours.
Absorption
Rapid and complete absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, though bioavailability is about 50-60% due to first-pass metabolism.
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic metabolism via hydroxylation and glucuronidation, mainly by CYP2C9 and CYP2C8.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to diclofenac or other NSAIDs
- Active gastrointestinal bleeding or peptic ulcer
- Severe heart failure (NYHA Class III-IV)
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment
- Third trimester of pregnancy
- History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs
Drug Interactions
Diuretics
Reduced diuretic and antihypertensive effects.
Lithium and Methotrexate
Increased plasma levels and toxicity of lithium and methotrexate.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased risk of bleeding.
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
ACE inhibitors and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs)
May reduce antihypertensive effect and increase risk of renal impairment.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Management is primarily supportive and symptomatic. Gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered soon after ingestion.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C (first and second trimester); Category D (third trimester). Avoid in the third trimester due to potential fetal harm. Use with caution in the first and second trimesters only if potential benefit outweighs risk. Excreted in breast milk; caution advised during lactation.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to diclofenac or other NSAIDs
- Active gastrointestinal bleeding or peptic ulcer
- Severe heart failure (NYHA Class III-IV)
- Severe renal or hepatic impairment
- Third trimester of pregnancy
- History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs
Drug Interactions
Diuretics
Reduced diuretic and antihypertensive effects.
Lithium and Methotrexate
Increased plasma levels and toxicity of lithium and methotrexate.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased risk of bleeding.
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
ACE inhibitors and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs)
May reduce antihypertensive effect and increase risk of renal impairment.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Management is primarily supportive and symptomatic. Gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered soon after ingestion.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C (first and second trimester); Category D (third trimester). Avoid in the third trimester due to potential fetal harm. Use with caution in the first and second trimesters only if potential benefit outweighs risk. Excreted in breast milk; caution advised during lactation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies worldwide
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Diclofenac has undergone extensive clinical trials supporting its efficacy and safety for various pain and inflammatory conditions. Ongoing research continues to explore its applications and long-term effects.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential
- Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
- Renal Function Tests (RFTs) including serum creatinine and BUN
- Stool for occult blood (especially with long-term use)
Doctor Notes
- Prescribe the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals.
- Carefully assess cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risk factors before initiating and during diclofenac therapy.
- Monitor renal function, liver enzymes, and blood counts periodically, especially during prolonged treatment.
Patient Guidelines
- Take diclofenac with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
- Do not crush or chew enteric-coated tablets; swallow them whole.
- Report any signs of unusual bleeding, bruising, severe stomach pain, or black/tarry stools.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Diclofenac may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances. Patients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid alcohol consumption while taking diclofenac as it may increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
- Maintain adequate hydration, especially if you have renal impairment.
- Consult your doctor before taking other NSAIDs or over-the-counter pain relievers.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.