Generic
Diclofenac Potassium
8 brands available in the market
At a glance
Diclofenac Potassium is an NSAID used for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, migraine, and acute pain.
Description
Diclofenac is a phenylacetic acid derivative and a prototypical NSAID. It reversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, resulting in reduced synthesis of prostaglandin precursors, thereby reducing inflammation, pain, and fever.
Indications
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Migraine
- Post-traumatic pain
- Post-operative pain
- Primary dysmenorrhea
- Acute gout
- Renal colic
Therapeutic class
Drugs for Osteoarthritis, Drugs used for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Pharmacological class
NSAID
Pharmacology
Diclofenac is a phenylacetic acid derivative and a prototypical NSAID. It reversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, resulting in reduced synthesis of prostaglandin precursors.
Mechanism of action
Diclofenac Potassium inhibits cyclooxygenase enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis, which decreases pain, inflammation, and fever.
Dosage
Adult (Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Mild-to-Moderate Acute Pain): 50 mg PO q8-12hr.
Adult (Migraine): 50 mg at first sign of attack; additional 50 mg after 2 hours if needed; max 200 mg/day.
Children (>14 years): Up to 75 mg/day in divided doses.
Hepatic impairment: Dose adjustment may be needed.
Administration
Take with food or immediately after meals. Swallow the tablet whole, do not chew, crush or break.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose of Diclofenac Potassium, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common: GI discomfort, epigastric pain, eructation, nausea, diarrhea, headache.
Occasional: Skin rash, peripheral edema, serum transaminase abnormalities.
Rare: Peptic ulcer, haematemesis, melena, blood dyscrasia, anaphylactoid reactions.
Precautions & warnings
History of GI ulceration; impaired cardiac, renal or hepatic function; hypertension; elderly and debilitated patients; asthma, porphyria. Monitor LFTs. May prolong bleeding time; caution in coagulation disorders or on anticoagulants.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity; active or suspected peptic ulcer or GI bleeding; aspirin or other NSAID-induced asthma, urticaria or acute rhinitis; coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery perioperative pain.
Drug interactions
Lithium, Digoxin: Increased plasma concentrations.
Anticoagulants (warfarin): Increased risk of hemorrhage.
Cyclosporin: Increased risk of nephrotoxicity.
Methotrexate: Risk of serious toxicity (within 24 hours).
Diuretics: Activity may be inhibited.
Other NSAIDs and steroids: Increased frequency of unwanted effects.
Food interactions
Take with food.
Use in pregnancy
Pregnancy Category C. Avoid use of NSAIDs starting at 30 weeks of gestation (third trimester) due to risk of premature closure of fetal ductus arteriosus.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Diclofenac is excreted in breast milk in small amounts; use is not recommended.
Pediatric use
Dosage is established for children over 14 years of age; safety in children under 14 years has not been established.
Geriatric use
Elderly and debilitated patients should use the lowest effective dose.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Caution in renal impairment; dose adjustment may be needed.
Overdose effects
Treatment of overdose is symptomatic.
Storage conditions
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Diclofenac Potassium