What Is Diclofenac Used For, and Who Should Avoid It

What Is Diclofenac Used For, and Who Should Avoid It

Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly prescribed to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever. Whether in oral tablets, topical gels, or eye drops, diclofenac is a versatile medication used across a range of conditions. Below, you’ll find clear information on what diclofenac is used for, how it works, common side effects, and who should avoid it.

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What Is Diclofenac Used For?

Diclofenac treats pain and inflammation associated with various conditions. Common uses include:

• Arthritis
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Ankylosing spondylitis
• Musculoskeletal Pain
  • Sprains and strains
  • Back pain
  • Tendonitis and bursitis
• Postoperative Pain
  • Relief after orthopedic or dental surgeries
• Migraine
  • Acute migraine attacks (oral or injectable forms)
• Menstrual Cramps
  • Dysmenorrhea
• Ophthalmic Inflammation
  • Eye drops for postoperative eye inflammation

By blocking enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) that produce prostaglandins—chemicals responsible for pain and swelling—diclofenac helps you feel more comfortable and move more freely.

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Forms and Strengths

Diclofenac is available in several formulations:

• Oral Tablets/Capsules
  • Immediate-release (e.g., 25 mg, 50 mg)
  • Extended-release (e.g., 75 mg, 100 mg)
• Topical Gels/Creams/Patches
  • 1% or 3% gel
  • Transdermal patch
• Suppositories
  • 50 mg, 100 mg
• Injection
  • 75 mg/mL for intramuscular use
• Ophthalmic Solution
  • 0.1% eye drops

Your doctor will choose the form and dose that best suit your condition, pain level, and overall health.

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How to Take Diclofenac

• Follow your doctor’s instructions exactly. Do not change the dose or frequency without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Oral forms: Take with food or milk to reduce gastrointestinal upset.
• Topical gels: Apply a thin layer to the affected area, wash your hands afterward, and avoid covering with airtight dressings unless directed.
• Suppositories: Insert gently into the rectum.
• Eye drops: Tilt your head back, pull down the lower eyelid, and instill the prescribed number of drops.

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Common Side Effects

Most people tolerate diclofenac well when used as directed. Typical side effects include:

• Stomach upset, nausea, or indigestion
• Heartburn
• Headache or dizziness
• Skin rash or itching (topical use)
• Local irritation (eye drops)

If these symptoms persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider.

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Serious Side Effects

Although rare, serious side effects can occur. Stop diclofenac and seek medical help if you experience:

• Severe abdominal pain or dark, tarry stools (signs of gastrointestinal bleeding)
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness in one half of the body (possible heart attack or stroke)
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine (liver injury)
• Swelling of the face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing (allergic reaction)
• Sudden weight gain or swelling in the legs (kidney or heart problems)

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Who Should Avoid Diclofenac

Diclofenac may not be suitable for everyone. Avoid use if you have:

• A history of allergic reactions to NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen)
• Active or recurrent stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding
• Severe heart failure or uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Severe kidney disease or significantly reduced kidney function
• Severe liver disease or jaundice
• Late pregnancy (after 30 weeks) — NSAIDs can affect fetal heart and circulation
• Recent heart surgery (e.g., coronary artery bypass graft)

Additionally, use caution or discuss risks if you have:

• Asthma triggered by NSAIDs
• Mild to moderate kidney or liver impairment
• A history of heart disease, stroke, or peripheral arterial disease

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Drug Interactions and Precautions

Diclofenac can interact with other medications and supplements:

• Blood thinners (warfarin, apixaban): Increased bleeding risk
• Other NSAIDs or steroids: Higher risk of ulcers and bleeding
• ACE inhibitors/ARBs (lisinopril, losartan): May reduce blood pressure control and worsen kidney function
• Diuretics (“water pills”): Potential for kidney injury
• Lithium and methotrexate: Increased drug levels and toxicity risk
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): Elevated bleeding risk

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about every prescription, over-the-counter drug, and supplement you take.

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Special Considerations

• Duration of Use: Long-term use increases the risk of cardiovascular and gastrointestinal side effects. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed.
• Monitoring: Regular blood pressure checks and kidney/liver function tests may be recommended during extended therapy.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss alternatives if you are pregnant or nursing.

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When to Seek Medical Advice

If your pain or inflammation doesn’t improve after a week of regular diclofenac use, or if you experience worrying symptoms (see Serious Side Effects), contact your healthcare provider immediately. Never ignore severe or sudden symptoms.

If you’re unsure what might be causing your pain, consider a free, online symptom check, using the doctor approved Ubie Symptom Checker.

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Final Thoughts

Diclofenac is a powerful tool for managing pain and inflammation in a variety of conditions. By understanding:

• What is diclofenac used for
• Potential side effects
• Who should avoid it

you can use it safely and effectively. Always take diclofenac exactly as prescribed, report any concerning symptoms, and never hesitate to speak to a doctor about anything that could be life threatening or serious.