Diclofenac Sodium

Diclofenac Sodium

Diclofenac Sodium is an NSAID used to treat the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions. This activity outlines the indications, mechanism of action, administration, adverse effect profile, contraindications, and other key factors for diclofenac in the clinical setting pertinent to healthcare team members to treat and manage patients with inflammation-related conditions. Diclofenac was the product of rational drug design based on the structures of phenylbutazone, mefenamic acid, and indomethacin.

It also has analgesic properties and antipyretic effects that are shared by other NSAIDs. It is often used in combination with misoprostol as a gastro-protective agent in patients with high risk of developing NSAID-induced ulcers. Diclofenac employs its action by inhibiting the activity of cyclooxygenase. It also increases the risk of developing a gastrointestinal ulcer by inhibiting the production of protective mucus in the stomach. Diclofenac’s peripheral analgesic effects are attributable to its activity in decreasing the availability of sensitized peripheral pain receptors. Use it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day.

This medication is for external use only. Diclofenac is completely absorbed from the GI tract but likely undergoes significant first pass metabolism with only 60% of the drug reaching systemic circulation unchanged. Do not use it more often than directed. If you do, rinse your eyes with plenty of cool tap water. Do not take by mouth. Absorption is dose proportional over the range of 25–150 mg. Wash your hands before and after use. Diclofenac distributes to the synovial fluid reaching peak concentration 2-4h after administration. Do not get it in your eyes. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.