Rheugin

Description

Diclofenac Sodium is an NSAID that provides analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic effects. It works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, mainly COX-2, reducing the production of prostaglandins—chemicals responsible for pain, fever, and inflammation. This mechanism makes it effective in relieving pain, swelling, stiffness, and fever associated with multiple conditions.

Primary Uses

Diclofenac 50mg is prescribed for:

• Acute pain (e.g., post-surgical, injury-related).

• Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

• Ankylosing spondylitis.

• Migraine headaches.

• Gout-related pain and inflammation.

• Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea).

• Pain and swelling after dental procedures.

• Fever associated with infections.

Dosage

• Adults:

  • Osteoarthritis/Rheumatoid arthritis: 50mg every 8 hours or 75mg every 12 hours.

  • Menstrual cramps: 50mg three times daily (initial dose may be 100mg).

  • Migraine: 50mg oral solution, single dose in water.

  • Ankylosing spondylitis: 25mg four to five times daily.

• Children (≥3 years): 2–3 mg/kg/day (for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis, up to 4 weeks).

• Important: Dose must be adjusted by your doctor based on condition and response.

Overdose

Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, GI bleeding.
Management: Immediate medical attention with gastric decontamination (activated charcoal/stomach pumping).

Missed Dose

• Take as soon as you remember.

• Skip if it’s nearly time for the next dose.

• Never double the dose.

How to Use

• Swallow whole with a glass of water.

• Take with or after meals to minimize stomach irritation.

• Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.

When Not to Use

Diclofenac is contraindicated in:

• Allergy to Diclofenac, aspirin, or other NSAIDs.

• History of asthma, hives, or allergic reactions to NSAIDs.

• Active/recurrent peptic ulcers or GI bleeding.

• Severe heart failure, recent heart surgery (CABG).

• Severe kidney or liver disease.

• Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant use.

• Porphyria (rare metabolic disorder).

• Pregnancy (3rd trimester): Not recommended due to fetal risks.

Side Effects

Common:

• Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting.

• Diarrhea or constipation.

• Headache, dizziness.

• Skin rash or itching.

• Increased blood pressure.

Serious (seek medical help):

• GI bleeding.

• Liver/kidney impairment.

• Heart attack or stroke (with long-term use).

Precautions & Warnings

• Use with caution in patients with GI disorders, cardiovascular disease, kidney/liver impairment.

• May increase risk of heart attack or stroke with prolonged use.

• Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney, and liver function advised.

• Avoid use during pregnancy (especially last trimester).

• Elderly patients may be at higher risk of complications.

Drug Interactions

• Other NSAIDs or Aspirin → ↑ risk of bleeding/ulcers.

• Warfarin/anticoagulants → ↑ bleeding risk.

• Methotrexate → ↑ toxicity.

• ACE inhibitors/ARBs → ↓ antihypertensive effect.

• Lithium, cyclosporine → ↑ blood levels and side effects.

• Antidiabetics → altered glycemic control.

Food Interactions

• Avoid alcohol → ↑ GI bleeding risk.

• Grapefruit juice → may affect drug metabolism.

• High-potassium foods (bananas, tomatoes, oranges) → ↑ potassium risk.

• High-sodium foods → ↑ blood pressure risk.

• Caffeine → ↑ absorption, stronger side effects.

• Fatty meals → delayed absorption.

Storage & Disposal

• Store at 20–25°C, in a dry place away from sunlight and moisture.

• Keep in original, sealed packaging.

• Keep out of reach of children.

• Dispose of expired/unused tablets safely through a pharmacist or waste authority.

Quick Tips

• Always take with food to avoid stomach upset.

• Do not combine with alcohol.

• Monitor blood pressure regularly.

• Inform your doctor of all medications you are taking.

• Do not share medication with others.

Doctor’s Review

Dr. Sana Malik, Rheumatologist
“Diclofenac remains a highly effective NSAID for pain and inflammation. However, long-term use must be monitored carefully due to cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks. Patients should strictly follow prescribed doses and avoid self-medication.”

Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.