Take orally, preferably with or after food to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush, chew, or divide.

Diclofenac inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, which are involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins. By reducing prostaglandin production, it decreases inflammation, pain, and fever.

• •Hypersensitivity to diclofenac or other NSAIDs
• •Active gastrointestinal bleeding or peptic ulcer
• •Severe heart failure, renal or hepatic impairment
• •Third trimester of pregnancy
• •History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs

Store below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Symptoms may include lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Management is supportive and symptomatic; gastric lavage or activated charcoal may be considered if ingestion was recent.

Avoid during the third trimester of pregnancy due to risk of premature closure of the ductus arteriosus. Use with caution in the first and second trimesters only if the potential benefit outweighs the risk. Diclofenac is excreted in breast milk; avoid during lactation.