Introduction
Pain can be bothersome and protracted. Relief is often promised by painkillers that target different mechanisms of action and application. One of these so-called analgesics (painkillers) is the drug diclofenac.
Diclofenac is classified as a non-opioid analgesic and is used for mild to moderate pain. A further area of application for Diclofenac is inflammation, which occurs in rheumatism, among other things. However, it is mainly used for sports injuries such as pulled muscles or bruises. In addition to its pain-relieving effect, Diclofenac also has a fever-reducing (antipyretic) and anti-inflammatory (antiphlogistic) component.
Diclofenac and alcohol
Diclofenac is a drug that can potentially damage the liver. Combining diclofenac with other potentially liver-damaging substances, such as alcohol, can increase the effects of side effects and interactions. Diclofenac in combination with alcohol increases side effects such as
- Tiredness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Digestive disorders
- Headaches
- Loss of appetite
- Skin rashes
In addition, the risk of developing a gastric ulcer is increased, and so is the risk of gastric bleeding.
Bleeding can also occur in other parts of the gastrointestinal tract. In the case of alcohol abuse, taking Diclofenac can lead not only to more frequent liver damage, but also to kidney dysfunction, an increased tendency to bleed and higher blood pressure. In combination with alcohol, side effects such as fatigue, dizziness and delayed reaction time are particularly noticeable.
You should note that you are not fit to drive under the influence of alcohol and should not operate machines. In general it should be said that it is not recommended to combine alcohol and Diclofenac as it can cause severe liver damage and internal bleeding. In addition, the ability to react is reduced, which can also lead to dangerous situations.
Further interactions
In general, as with any other drug, Diclofenac can interact with other drugs. Elderly patients who are already weakened or on long-term medication with other drugs should be particularly careful. They may experience more frequent undesirable side effects, including gastrointestinal bleeding.
Interactions can also occur during pregnancy. Therefore, the use of Diclofenac tablets during pregnancy should always be discussed with your doctor. This is especially true in the first third and second third of a pregnancy.
It is not recommended to take Diclofenac during the breastfeeding period, as it cannot be excluded that there are degradation products of Diclofenac in breast milk. Especially with higher doses of Diclofenac tablets the ability to drive and operate machines may be limited. Due to rarely occurring side effects such as fatigue or dizziness, the safe operation of machines or road safety can no longer be guaranteed.
In combination with other medications, Diclofenac may increase their effect. If you are taking other medications, always ask your doctor for advice. In combination with corticosteroids there may be an increased risk of gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract.
Diclofenac may reduce the effect of antihypertensive drugs such as ACE inhibitors. Likewise, the simultaneous intake of Diclofenac and antihypertensive and diuretically effective drugs can lead to kidney dysfunction. When taken together with potassium-sparing diuretics, it is recommended to control the potassium level as it can lead to an increased potassium concentration in the blood. In the case of antidiabetics, it is also recommended to check the blood sugar level when taking Diclofenac tablets.