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Diclofenac Potassium: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Diclofenac Potassium is a fast-acting, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) formulated as a potassium salt for rapid dissolution and onset of action.

Forms:Tablet

About Diclofenac Potassium

Indications of Diclofenac Potassium

Diclofenac Potassium is a fast-acting, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) formulated as a potassium salt for rapid dissolution and onset of action. It is indicated for the following:

Established / approved uses

  • Mild to moderate acute pain, including post-traumatic and post-operative pain.
  • Primary dysmenorrhea (painful menstrual cramps).
  • Signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis.
  • Signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

Guideline-supported / commonly accepted uses

  • Acute migraine attack (with or without aura), used as an abortive analgesic.
  • Acute pain associated with minor surgery, dental procedures, and soft-tissue injuries.

Diclofenac Potassium is intended for short-term, symptomatic relief; it does not alter the underlying course of chronic inflammatory disease. The lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest duration consistent with individual treatment goals.

Dosage & Administration of Diclofenac Potassium

Adult dosing

IndicationTypical adult dose
Mild to moderate acute pain / post-traumatic or post-operative pain50 mg 2–3 times daily; some regimens use an initial 50 mg loading dose followed by 25–50 mg every 8 hours as needed
Primary dysmenorrhea50 mg three times daily, starting at the earliest onset of symptoms
Acute migraine attack50 mg at onset; may repeat 25–50 mg after 2 hours if needed, up to a maximum of 150 mg/day
Osteoarthritis100–150 mg/day in 2–3 divided doses
Rheumatoid arthritis150–200 mg/day in 3–4 divided doses

Maximum recommended dose is generally 150 mg/day for most indications unless otherwise directed by a physician. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water and, where possible, taken on an empty stomach for faster onset; taking with food may reduce gastrointestinal upset but slows absorption.

Pediatric dosing

Safety and efficacy of Diclofenac Potassium have not been established in children for most indications (see Use in Special Populations). In some markets it is used in adolescents over 14 years at doses up to 75 mg/day in divided doses, only under medical supervision.

Renal/hepatic adjustment

No specific dose adjustment is established for mild-to-moderate renal impairment, but Diclofenac Potassium should be used with caution and at the lowest effective dose; it should be avoided in severe renal impairment. In hepatic impairment, use the lowest effective dose and monitor liver function, as diclofenac is extensively hepatically metabolized.

Side Effects of Diclofenac Potassium

The following adverse effects have been reported with Diclofenac Potassium:

Common (occur in roughly 1–10% of patients)

  • Abdominal pain, dyspepsia, nausea, diarrhea
  • Headache, dizziness
  • Elevated liver enzymes
  • Skin rash

Less common / serious

  • Gastrointestinal ulceration, bleeding, or perforation
  • Cardiovascular thrombotic events (myocardial infarction, stroke) — see Precautions and Warnings
  • Hepatotoxicity, including rare fulminant hepatitis
  • Renal impairment or acute kidney injury
  • Fluid retention, edema, or worsening hypertension
  • Serious skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis) — rare
  • Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis and bronchospasm — rare

Patients should seek prompt medical attention for signs of GI bleeding (black stools, vomiting blood), chest pain, sudden weakness or slurred speech, unusual bruising/bleeding, jaundice, or severe skin reactions.

Contraindications of Diclofenac Potassium

Diclofenac Potassium is contraindicated in the following situations (true absolute contraindications):

  • Known hypersensitivity to diclofenac, aspirin, or other NSAIDs.
  • History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions (including anaphylactoid reactions) after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.
  • Use for perioperative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
  • Third trimester of pregnancy (see Pregnancy and Lactation).

Frequently Asked Questions about Diclofenac Potassium

What is Diclofenac Potassium used for?

Diclofenac Potassium is a fast-acting NSAID used for the short-term relief of mild to moderate acute pain, painful menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea), acute migraine attacks, and for managing the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

How quickly does Diclofenac Potassium start working?

Because it is formulated as a potassium salt that dissolves rapidly, Diclofenac Potassium is generally absorbed faster than diclofenac sodium, with pain relief often beginning within 20–60 minutes when taken on an empty stomach.

Can I take Diclofenac Potassium during pregnancy?

Diclofenac Potassium should be avoided during pregnancy unless clearly necessary and only if a physician determines that the benefit outweighs the risk. It is contraindicated from about 30 weeks gestation (third trimester) onward because it can cause premature closure of a blood vessel in the fetal heart (the ductus arteriosus), and its use between 20–30 weeks should be limited to the lowest dose for the shortest time due to the risk of reduced amniotic fluid. Always consult your doctor before use during pregnancy.

Who should not take Diclofenac Potassium?

Diclofenac Potassium should not be used by people with a known allergy to diclofenac, aspirin, or other NSAIDs; those who have had asthma, urticaria, or allergic reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs; patients undergoing perioperative pain management around coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery; and women in the third trimester of pregnancy.

What are the most serious risks of Diclofenac Potassium?

Diclofenac Potassium, like other NSAIDs, carries a boxed warning for an increased risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke, and for serious gastrointestinal problems such as bleeding, ulcers, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can occur without warning and can be fatal. It should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary, and any signs of chest pain, black or bloody stools, or vomiting blood require urgent medical attention.

Can I take Diclofenac Potassium with other pain relievers or blood thinners?

Diclofenac Potassium should not be combined with other NSAIDs or aspirin, as this increases the risk of stomach bleeding without added benefit. Combining it with anticoagulants (like warfarin), other antiplatelet drugs, or SSRIs also increases bleeding risk. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines you are taking before starting Diclofenac Potassium.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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