Diclogesic

Diclofenac is a staple in Pakistani pharmacies, from Karachi’s busy markets to clinics in Quetta, often reached for when pain or swelling kicks in. It’s a powerful tablet that tackles inflammation and discomfort head-on. This profile sums up its key details—how it works, its uses, side effects, and doctor insights—based on local standards like those from the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC). It’s here to inform, not to suggest using it without a doctor’s guidance.

Basic Product Details

• Form and Strength: 100 mg tablets, taken orally.
• Packaging: Strips of 10 or 20 tablets, sealed for Pakistan’s humid climate.
• Pricing: Roughly PKR 5-12 per tablet; a 10-tablet strip costs about PKR 50-120, depending on the pharmacy or brand.
• Brands in Pakistan: Voltaren, Cataflam, or PMDC-approved generics.

Ingredients

• Active Ingredient: Diclofenac sodium (100 mg, an NSAID).
• Excipients: May include lactose, cellulose, or magnesium stearate (check packaging for specifics).

Drug Class

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID).

How It Functions

Diclofenac blocks cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, mainly COX-1 and COX-2, stopping the production of prostaglandins—chemicals that fuel inflammation, pain, and fever. This reduces swelling, eases aches, and lowers fever. In Pakistan’s clinics, it’s a trusted choice for quick relief from arthritis flare-ups or post-injury pain, especially when triggered by stress or spicy diets.

Common Applications

From local medical practices, diclofenac is linked to:

• Relieving acute pain (e.g., toothache, migraines, menstrual cramps).
• Managing arthritis symptoms (rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis).
• Reducing pain and swelling after surgeries or injuries.
• Easing muscle/joint stiffness or back pain.
• Treating soft tissue or sports injuries.
• Reducing fever and discomfort from flu or colds.

Dosage Form

Tablet (100 mg), swallowed whole with water.

Potential Side Effects

Common issues, based on local reports, include:

• Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.
• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Dizziness or headache.
• Skin rash or itching.
• Increased blood pressure or liver enzyme changes.

Seek immediate help for severe symptoms like bleeding or swelling.

Key Warnings and Precautions

PMDC-aligned guidelines note:

• Gut Health: Higher risk of bleeding or ulcers; use cautiously with stomach issues.
• Heart Risks: May increase heart attack/stroke risk with long-term use; monitor closely.
• Kidney/Liver: Regular function tests needed, especially in elderly or those with issues.
• Pregnancy: Avoid in third trimester; consult for earlier stages.
• Allergies: Don’t use if allergic to NSAIDs or aspirin; may trigger asthma.
• Fluid Retention: Watch for swelling, especially with heart/kidney conditions.
• Driving: Skip if dizzy or sleepy.

When It’s Not Suitable (Contraindications)

Avoid if you have:

• Allergy to diclofenac, aspirin, or other NSAIDs.
• Active or recent stomach bleeding/ulcers.
• Severe heart failure, kidney, or liver disease.
• Recent heart surgery (e.g., CABG).
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure.
• Bleeding disorders or use of blood thinners.

Drug Interactions

May interact with:

• Other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen), raising bleeding/kidney risks.
• ACE inhibitors/ARBs, reducing blood pressure control.
• Warfarin or anticoagulants, increasing bleeding chances.
• Lithium or methotrexate, raising toxicity risks.
• Diuretics or cyclosporine, affecting kidney function.

Food Interactions

• Take with food to reduce stomach upset.
• Avoid alcohol; increases bleeding risk.
• Limit caffeine, spicy, or high-sodium foods to minimize gut irritation.
• Avoid grapefruit juice; may raise diclofenac levels.
• Separate from fatty meals to ensure timely absorption.

In Case of Overdose

Symptoms like nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or bleeding need urgent ER care. Treatment may include stomach pumping or activated charcoal to limit absorption.

Missed Dose

Take as soon as remembered, ideally within 2-3 hours, unless near the next dose. Skip it then, and don’t double up. Consult your doctor if multiple doses are missed.

Storage and Disposal

Store tablets at room temperature (20-25°C) in a cool, dry place (e.g., a cabinet, not a bathroom), away from light, moisture, and kids. Dispose of expired tablets via pharmacy drop-off, not by flushing.

Quick Tips

• Take with food to ease stomach irritation.
• Stick to the same time daily for steady relief.
• Avoid alcohol and spicy foods to minimize gut issues.
• Inform your doctor about other meds to avoid clashes.

Doctor Review

Rheumatologists and GPs in Pakistan, from Karachi’s Jinnah Hospital to Faisalabad’s clinics, see diclofenac as a reliable pick for arthritis, migraines, or post-op pain, but they stress short-term use and monitoring for stomach or kidney issues to avoid complications.

Laboratory Screening

To monitor effects and risks:

• RA Factor Test: For rheumatoid arthritis if bone pain persists.
• Blood Tests: Kidney/liver function, blood counts for bleeding/anemia risks.
• Blood Pressure Checks: To track cardiovascular effects.

Disclaimer: This is product information only, not a prescription or diagnosis. Consult a qualified Pakistani doctor before using diclofenac to ensure it’s safe. Seek immediate care for severe symptoms like stomach pain, rash, or breathing issues.