Drug Name
Diclofenac is an NSAID that is used treat pain or inflammation caused by arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis. Please note that the drug is used to cure the pain and not the actual disease.
How it is taken
Dicolfenac can be taken by mouth with or without food. The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor.
Drug Class & Mechanism
Diclofenac is a Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drug that works by reducing the production of certain hormones that cause inflammation in the body.
Missed Dosage
If you miss a dose of Diclofenac, then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.
Storage
Store it at room temperature (between between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.
Warnings/Precautions
Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances.
Diclofenac may cause drowsiness. These effects get aggravated if you take it with alcohol or certain other medications (sleep aids, muscle relaxers). So, do not drive or perform other potentially hazardous tasks until you know how your body reacts to the drug.
You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or you have had a severe allergic reaction (e.g., severe rash, hives, breathing difficulties, dizziness) to another NSAID (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib) or aspirin.
If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Diclofenac and contact your doctor immediately.
It is unknown whether Diclofenac is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.
Diclofenac should not be used in children as the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been confirmed yet.
Do not use unless it is prescribed to you.
Possible Side Effects
Some of the common side effects of are burning or stinging, discharge, eye redness, irritation, or itching. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.
Other severe side effects include allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), blurred or distorted vision, eye infection, eyelid swelling or redness, sensitivity to glare or light.
You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.
More Information
Diclofenac is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.
