Diclofenac: Effects, Uses & Risks

Diclofenac is an analgesic from the group of so-called non-opioid analgesics and thus belongs to the painkillers whose active ingredient is not derived from opiates. Diclofenac is also antiphlogistic, i.e. anti-inflammatory, and does not contain steroids, which is why diclofenac also belongs to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Drugs such as diclofenac, which help against pain and are effective against inflammation, often show a good effect in conditions such as rheumatism and form the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The active ingredient sodium 2-[2-(2,6-dichlorophenylamino)phenyl]acetate, in a shortened form, gives the pain reliever diclofenac its name.

Medicinal effect and use

The indication for diclofenac is the treatment of mild to moderate pain.

The field of application of Diclofenac is the treatment of mild to moderate pain Diclofenac is effective for both acute and chronic pain. The drug is used especially when the pain is accompanied by inflammation or increased body temperature.

Diclofenac can be used internally as a tablet or externally as an ointment. As an NSAID, diclofenac is often used to treat pain where the clinical picture is similar to that of rheumatism. Therefore, the analgesic is used, for example, in gout attacks, chronic polyarthritis, joint injuries, joint swelling, osteoarthritis and herniated discs.

Diclofenac takes effect within half an hour to a full hour. The effect lasts for about four hours or, when using Diclofenac retard tablets, from which the release of active ingredient is slower, up to twelve hours.

In Germany, diclofenac is only available from pharmacies and may also be subject to prescription depending on the method of administration and the amount of active ingredient contained.

Interactions

Diclofenac may interact with agents that have the potential to cause liver damage, such as some antispasmodic preparations, and increase damage to the liver. This effect also occurs in conjunction with alcohol, so that the liver-damaging effects of alcohol, which are often seen with alcohol abuse, are increased by diclofenac. Diclofenac, which itself belongs to the group of NSAIDs, should not be combined with other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, because otherwise the side effects of the drugs may be significantly increased.

Risks and side effects

Diclofenac can cause a whole range of side effects. Frequently, side effects of diclofenac are manifested in the gastrointestinal tract. The symptoms observed here range from loss of appetite and nausea to diarrhea and stomach pain. Taking Diclofenac also increases the risk of developing stomach ulcers. Diclofenac can cause bleeding in the stomach and increase the risk for gastric rupture.

In patients with a known history of gastrointestinal disorders or increased sensitivity, diclofenac is often given in conjunction with a drug that protects the stomach to limit side effects. Less common are kidney dysfunction, an increased tendency to bleed, and an increase in blood pressure.

Very rarely it has been observed that after taking diclofenac the airways become tense and there are breathing problems as a result of diclofenac. Diclofenac is not suitable for children and adolescents. Patients suffering from asthma as well as pregnant women should also refrain from taking Diclfenac. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and liver and kidney values is advised if diclofenac is taken over a long period of time.