Generic medicine

Diclofenac Sodium: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Diclofenac Sodium is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for the relief of pain and inflammation in a range of musculoskeletal and gynecological conditions.

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About Diclofenac Sodium

Indications of Diclofenac Sodium

Diclofenac Sodium is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for the relief of pain and inflammation in a range of musculoskeletal and gynecological conditions.

Established / Approved Uses

  • Relief of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis
  • Relief of signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis
  • Relief of signs and symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis

Guideline-Supported / Widely Accepted Uses

  • Acute musculoskeletal pain, including sprains, strains, and post-traumatic pain and swelling
  • Primary dysmenorrhea (painful menstrual cramps)
  • Post-operative pain and inflammation (short-term use)

Diclofenac Sodium is not an antibiotic and has no role in treating infections.

Dosage & Administration of Diclofenac Sodium

Adult Dosage by Indication

IndicationTypical Adult Dose
Osteoarthritis100-150 mg/day in 2-3 divided doses
Rheumatoid arthritis150-200 mg/day in 3-4 divided doses
Ankylosing spondylitis100-125 mg/day in divided doses
Acute musculoskeletal pain50 mg 2-3 times daily, short-term
Primary dysmenorrhea50-100 mg initially, then 50 mg every 8 hours as needed

The lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest duration consistent with the treatment goal, due to cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks (see Precautions and Warnings). Sustained-release/enteric-coated tablets should be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed, and are best taken with food or milk to reduce gastric irritation.

Pediatric Dosage

For juvenile rheumatoid/idiopathic arthritis (where locally approved), doses of approximately 1-3 mg/kg/day in divided doses have been used under specialist supervision. Safety and efficacy of oral Diclofenac Sodium have not been established for general pediatric use in many markets; use only under pediatric specialist guidance.

Renal/Hepatic Impairment

Use the lowest effective dose with caution in patients with mild-to-moderate renal or hepatic impairment; avoid use in severe renal or hepatic impairment. Monitor renal and liver function during prolonged therapy.

Side Effects of Diclofenac Sodium

Most adverse effects of Diclofenac Sodium are mild and transient, but some can be serious. Common side effects include:

  • Gastrointestinal: epigastric pain, dyspepsia, nausea, diarrhea, flatulence
  • Headache and dizziness
  • Elevated liver enzymes
  • Fluid retention and edema
  • Skin rash

Less common but serious effects include gastrointestinal ulceration/bleeding/perforation, cardiovascular thrombotic events (myocardial infarction, stroke), hepatotoxicity, renal impairment, hypertension, anaphylactic reactions, and severe skin reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis). See Precautions and Warnings for details.

Contraindications of Diclofenac Sodium

Diclofenac Sodium is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Known hypersensitivity to diclofenac or any component of the formulation
  • History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs (including NSAID-induced bronchospasm)
  • Active gastrointestinal bleeding or active peptic ulcer disease
  • In the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery
  • Severe (decompensated) heart failure
  • Third trimester of pregnancy

Frequently Asked Questions about Diclofenac Sodium

What is Diclofenac Sodium used for?

Diclofenac Sodium is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain and inflammation in conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, acute musculoskeletal injuries, and painful menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea).

Can I take Diclofenac Sodium during pregnancy?

Diclofenac Sodium should be avoided during pregnancy unless clearly needed, and it is contraindicated in the third trimester because it can cause premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus. If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, consult your physician before using Diclofenac Sodium.

What are the serious risks of Diclofenac Sodium?

Diclofenac Sodium, like other NSAIDs, carries a risk of serious cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke) and serious gastrointestinal events (bleeding, ulceration, perforation), which can occur without warning. It should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest necessary time, and you should seek medical attention if you notice chest pain, black stools, or severe stomach pain while taking it.

Who should not take Diclofenac Sodium?

Diclofenac Sodium should not be taken by people with a known allergy to diclofenac or other NSAIDs/aspirin (including a history of asthma or hives triggered by these drugs), those with active stomach bleeding or ulcers, patients who have recently had coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, those with severe heart failure, and women in the third trimester of pregnancy.

Can Diclofenac Sodium be taken with other painkillers?

Combining Diclofenac Sodium with aspirin or other NSAIDs is generally not recommended because it increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding without added benefit. Always tell your doctor about all medicines you are taking, especially blood thinners, before starting Diclofenac Sodium.

What should I do if I take too much Diclofenac Sodium?

If an overdose of Diclofenac Sodium is suspected, seek immediate medical attention or contact emergency services/a poison control center right away. Do not try to treat an overdose at home.

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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