Diclofenac For Arthritis
- What Is Diclofenac?
Diclofenac is one of the NSAIDs’ family, (Non-Steroidal-Anti-Inflammatory Drugs. Voltaren, Dicloflex, and Econac are brand names of it. It’s commonly prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation and treat the problems of muscles and bones such as osteoarthritis, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and muscle strain.
- Availability:
Diclofenac is available in multiple forms; it comes as tablets, suppositories, and plasters. Injection and eyedrops must be taken in hospitals.
- Side effects:
Like other drugs, Diclofenac can cause side effects; however, not everyone gets them. Oral intake of Diclofenac may cause side effects like:
- Headache
- GIT symptoms: nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Mild rash
In case you are using patches or gel, the previous side effects are less likely to happen, however, there may be skin manifestations like:
- Increased sensitivity to sunlight.
- Skin dryness and irritation.
- Skin rash, itching, and inflammation.
Serious side effects are rare to happen:
- Chest pain and difficulty in breathing.
- Bloody vomitus and stomach pain.
- Yellowish discoloration of the sclera.
- Itchy rash with puffiness.
You have to call your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.
- Precautions:
Here are a few tips you have to know before taking Diclofenac:
- Start with the lowest possible dose; to control the side effects.
- It is better to take the tablets with a meal or just after eating to avoid GIT symptoms.
- Drink plenty of fluids and keep hydrated to avoid having headaches and diarrhea.
- Don’t drink too much alcohol.
- To avoid skin manifestations in case of using Diclofenac gel, use emollients, and reduce your exposure to sunlight.
- Tell your doctor first if you ever had signs of allergy after taking any of the NSAIDs, or if you have Hypertension, Liver disease, or kidney disease.
- If you forget to take your dose, take it once you remember. However, never double your dose to make up for the forgotten ones.
- If you’re pregnant or breast-feeding, Diclofenac isn’t safe for you. It’s better to take paracetamol or ibuprofen.
- Drug interactions:
Make sure to tell your doctor about all the drugs you’re taking and the conditions you have.
Here are some drug interactions:
- Other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and aspirin.
- Antibiotics: ciclosporins.
- Warfarin.
- Antidepressants: SSRIs.
- Methotrexate.
- ACE inhibitors.
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