Verifen-SR
Generic Name
Diclofenac Sodium (Sustained Release) 100 mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| verifen sr 100 mg tablet | ৳ 3.00 | ৳ 30.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Verifen-SR 100 mg Tablet contains Diclofenac Sodium, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain, swelling, and inflammation associated with various conditions like arthritis, muscle pain, and joint pain. The sustained-release formulation ensures prolonged action and reduced dosing frequency.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Usually 100 mg once daily. Dosage may be adjusted based on individual response and tolerability, not exceeding 100 mg/day for sustained-release forms.
Elderly
Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration. Monitor for adverse effects, especially gastrointestinal and renal.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Reduced dosage may be necessary, and regular monitoring of renal function is advised. Avoid in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Verifen-SR 100 mg tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, preferably with or after food to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet, as it is a sustained-release formulation.
Mechanism of Action
Diclofenac works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, which are responsible for the synthesis of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are mediators of pain, inflammation, and fever. By reducing prostaglandin levels, diclofenac effectively reduces these symptoms.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Analgesic effects typically begin within 30-60 minutes, while anti-inflammatory effects may take several days of consistent use.
Excretion
Approximately 60% excreted in urine and 30% in bile/feces as metabolites.
Half life
Plasma elimination half-life is about 1-2 hours, but the sustained-release formulation provides prolonged therapeutic levels.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally; peak plasma concentration reached in approximately 2-4 hours for sustained-release formulations.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver by hydroxylation and glucuronidation, primarily by CYP2C9.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to diclofenac or other NSAIDs
- Active gastrointestinal bleeding or peptic ulcer
- Severe hepatic or renal impairment
- Severe uncontrolled heart failure
- Third trimester of pregnancy
- History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Increased plasma lithium levels, leading to toxicity.
Methotrexate
Increased plasma methotrexate levels, leading to toxicity.
Diuretics and ACE inhibitors
Reduced hypotensive effect of these drugs; increased risk of renal impairment.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased risk of bleeding.
Other NSAIDs or corticosteroids
Increased risk of gastrointestinal adverse effects.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, diarrhea, dizziness, tinnitus, and convulsions. In cases of significant poisoning, acute renal failure and liver damage are possible. Management is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered within an hour of ingestion. There is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Diclofenac is contraindicated in the third trimester of pregnancy due to the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus. In the first and second trimesters, it should be used only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is excreted in breast milk in small amounts; use with caution during lactation and consider alternatives.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to diclofenac or other NSAIDs
- Active gastrointestinal bleeding or peptic ulcer
- Severe hepatic or renal impairment
- Severe uncontrolled heart failure
- Third trimester of pregnancy
- History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Increased plasma lithium levels, leading to toxicity.
Methotrexate
Increased plasma methotrexate levels, leading to toxicity.
Diuretics and ACE inhibitors
Reduced hypotensive effect of these drugs; increased risk of renal impairment.
Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin)
Increased risk of bleeding.
Other NSAIDs or corticosteroids
Increased risk of gastrointestinal adverse effects.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, diarrhea, dizziness, tinnitus, and convulsions. In cases of significant poisoning, acute renal failure and liver damage are possible. Management is symptomatic and supportive. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered within an hour of ingestion. There is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Diclofenac is contraindicated in the third trimester of pregnancy due to the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus. In the first and second trimesters, it should be used only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is excreted in breast milk in small amounts; use with caution during lactation and consider alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture, specific to manufacturer.
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by DGDA/FDA
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Diclofenac has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety for various pain and inflammatory conditions over decades. Ongoing post-marketing surveillance continues to monitor its long-term effects.
Lab Monitoring
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) periodically, especially during long-term therapy.
- Renal function tests (e.g., serum creatinine, BUN) before and during treatment.
- Liver function tests (e.g., ALT, AST) periodically.
- Occult blood testing if gastrointestinal symptoms occur.
Doctor Notes
- Assess patient's cardiovascular risk factors and gastrointestinal history before initiating NSAID therapy.
- Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration to minimize risks.
- Monitor renal function, liver enzymes, and blood pressure regularly, especially in elderly or high-risk patients.
- Advise patients to report any signs of gastrointestinal bleeding or cardiovascular symptoms immediately.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the tablet whole with food or milk.
- Do not crush or chew the sustained-release tablet.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Report any unusual symptoms, especially severe stomach pain, black stools, or swelling.
- Avoid concurrent use of other NSAIDs without consulting a doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Diclofenac may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or visual disturbances in some patients. If you experience these effects, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid smoking, as it may exacerbate gastrointestinal adverse effects.
- Limit alcohol intake, as it can increase the risk of stomach problems.
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