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Medicine Highlights
| Uses | 1-To treat pain caused by osteoarthritis 2- To treat symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis 3- To cure menstrual cramp pain 4- To treat migraine headaches |
| Common Side Effects | 1- Discomfort due to excess stomach acid release 2- Bleeding gums 3- Chest pain 4- Cough 5- Dizziness |
| Additional Information | Avoid taking alcohol or tobacco with this medicine. |
| Storage | 1- The medicine should be stored at room temperature 2- Keep away from sunlight and moisture 3- Keep away from the reach of children |
| How to Take This Medicine | The medicine should be taken orally |
Diclofenac Summary
Diclofenac 50 mg is a common NSAID used to relieve pain and inflammation from conditions like arthritis and joint disorders. It works by blocking the enzyme that causes pain and swelling. Take it exactly as prescribed, ideally at the same time each day. While food doesn’t affect it, avoid alcohol, and don’t stop the medicine without your doctor’s advice. Store it in a cool, dry place out of children’s reach. Side effects can range from mild (like indigestion or dizziness) to serious (such as stomach bleeding, liver issues, or heart problems). It’s not recommended for people with ulcers, heart disease, or liver conditions. In case of a missed dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next one. If you suspect an overdose – look out for severe dizziness, stomach pain, or confusion- seek medical help right away.
Diclofenac Uses
Diclofenac 50 mg is an oral medicine belonging to the class of non-steroidal anti- inflammatory drugs (NSAID) medicines. It is used for following indications:
- Disease that causes breakdown of cartilage joint (Osteoarthritis)
- Autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and pain in joints (Rheumatoid arthritis)
- Menstrual cramp
- Migraine headaches
Directions for use
- Take diclofenac exactly as prescribed by your doctor, regularly at the same time each day.
- Do not stop taking diclofenac without your doctor’s approval, even if you feel better.
- If you forget to take the medicine, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for the next one, then just skip it.
Diclofenac side effects
More Common
- Acid or sour stomach
- Belching
- Bleeding gums
- Blood in the urine or stools
- Bloody or black, tarry stools
- Burning while urinating
- Chest pain
- Chills
- Cough
- Clay-colored stools
- Cloudy urine
- Constipation
- Dark urine
- Decrease in urine output or decrease in urine-concentrating ability
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Feeling of indigestion
- Fever
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Headache
- Heartburn
- Increased bleeding time
- Indigestion
- Itching skin or rash
- Light-colored stools
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain in the chest below the breastbone
- Painful or difficult urination
- Pale skin
- Pinpoint red spots on the skin
- Stomach bloating, burning, cramping, discomfort, upset, or pain
- Sore throat
- Sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth
- Swelling or inflammation of the mouth
- Swollen glands
- Trouble breathing
- Unpleasant breath odor
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Upper right abdominal or stomach pain
- Vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
- Weight loss
- Yellow eyes and skin
Less Common
- Blistering, peeling, loosening of the skin
- Blurred vision
- Burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, “pins and needles”, or tingling feelings
- Confusion
- Change in consciousness
- Discouragement
- Dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position
- Feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings
- Feeling sad or empty
- Irritability
- Joint or muscle pain
- Lack of appetite
- Lack or loss of strength
- Loss of consciousness
- Loss of interest or pleasure
- Nervousness
- Pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck
- Pale or blue lips, fingernails, or skin
- Red irritated eyes
- Red skin lesions, often with a purple center
- Redness, soreness, or itching skin
- Sensation of spinning
- Shakiness in the legs, arms, hands, or feet
- Sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
- Stiff neck or back
- Trembling or shaking of the hands or feet
- Trouble concentrating
- Trouble sleeping
How Diclofenac works
Diclofenac acts as a pain reliever (analgesic) and fever reducer (antipyretic) by inhibiting a protein in the body called cyclooxygenase (COX), which is responsible for causing pain and fever.
Safety Measures and Warning
📌 1- Cardiovascular disease
Patients with cardiovascular disease should avoid taking this medication as it can worsen the condition, as it targets a specific protein enzyme linked to heart disease.
📌 2- Ulcer
Patients with ulcers should avoid consuming diclofenac as it can further damage the wound.
📌 3- Liver damage
Since diclofenac is metabolized by the liver, long-term use of this medication can damage the liver; therefore, after a certain point, dose adjustment is required.
Diclofenac Interaction with Other Medicines
Avoid taking diclofenac 50 mg with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal:
Diclofenac Interaction with Food Product
Diclofenac does not interact with any food products, but alcohol should be avoided before and after taking the medicine, as it can increase or decrease the effect of diclofenac.
Storage
- The medicine should be stored at room temperature
- Keep away from sunlight and moisture
- Keep away from the reach of children
Diclofenac Chemical Structure
IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name-
2-[2-(2,6-dichloroanilino)phenyl]acetic acid.
Intake routine/cycle
📌 Daily Dose
Take diclofenac exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor.
📌 Missed Dose
If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage.
📌 Overdose
Diclofenac is an over-the-counter medicine, and toxicity is quite rare. However, symptoms of overdose include upset stomach, nausea, and dizziness. Severe overdose symptoms can include seizures, coma, cardiovascular events, and increased acid secretion. If you know someone who takes this medicine daily and experiences these symptoms, rush them to the hospital immediately.
FAQ’s
1. Can I take diclofenac during pregnancy?
➡️ No, diclofenac is not safe during pregnancy because it can reduce blood flow to the fetus or decrease the amount of amniotic fluid in the womb.
2. Can I take paracetamol with diclofenac?
➡️ Yes, it is safe to take paracetamol with diclofenac. However, avoid taking diclofenac with aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen.
3. Can diclofenac make you sleepy?
➡️ Yes, diclofenac can cause dizziness or sleepiness as this is a common side effect of the medication.
4. Can I take diclofenac for a toothache?
➡️ Yes, diclofenac can be used to manage toothache and is preferred due to its faster onset of action.
Reference
- NHS. Diclofenac: pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility while taking or using diclofenac [Internet]. London: National Health Service; 2023 [cited 2025 Jan 14]. Available from.
- NHS. Taking diclofenac with other medicines and herbal supplements [Internet]. London: National Health Service; 2023 [cited 2025 Jan 14]. Available from.
- Boghdady W, Lotfy M, William E. Diclofenac potassium in the management of dental pain: a multicenter double-blind comparison with glafenine. Egypt Dent J. 1993 Jul;39(3):461-6. PMID: 9590971. Available from.
- Mayo Clinic. Diclofenac (Oral Route) Description [Internet]. Rochester: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2023 [cited 2025 Jan 14]. Available from.
- Alfaro RA, Davis DD. Diclofenac. [Updated 2023 May 22]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from.
