Comprehensive Guide to Diclofenac: Uses, Forms, Side Effects, and Precautions

Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used primarily for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is utilized to treat a variety of conditions, including arthritis, migraine, and minor injuries¹².

Uses

• Arthritis: Helps relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis such as pain, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain².
• Migraine: Treats acute migraine attacks but does not prevent them¹.
• Menstrual Cramps: Provides relief from pain during menstrual periods¹.

Forms

• Oral: Tablets, capsules, enteric-coated tablets, extended-release tablets, and powder for solution²³.
• Topical: Solutions, gels, creams, patches, and extended-release patches⁴.
• Injection and Eye Drops: Usually administered in hospital settings⁵.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Rash

Serious risks can include cardiovascular issues like heart attacks or stroke, gastrointestinal problems such as bleeding or ulcers, and other systemic effects⁶⁷.

Precautions

• Take with food: Oral forms should be taken with or just after food to minimize gastrointestinal upset⁸.
• Fixed uses: Only use the diclofenac product prescribed by your doctor as different products release the medication differently⁹.
• Short-term usage: Utilize the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to manage symptoms¹⁰.

For more detailed guidance, always consult with your healthcare provider.

Footnotes

1. Mayo Clinic - Diclofenac Information ↩ ↩² ↩³

2. MedlinePlus - Diclofenac ↩ ↩² ↩³

3. Mayo Clinic - Diclofenac Forms and Usage ↩

4. NHS - Diclofenac Information ↩

5. NHS - Diclofenac Information ↩

6. MedlinePlus - Diclofenac Risks ↩

7. Mayo Clinic - Diclofenac Side Effects ↩

8. NHS - Diclofenac Usage ↩

9. MedlinePlus - Diclofenac Administration ↩

10. NHS - Diclofenac Key Facts ↩