Diclofenac

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    About this medicine

    Generic name Diclofenac
    Active ingredients Diclofenac; salt and formulation vary by product
    Brand names (as verified) Voveran; Voltaren (brand availability varies by market)
    Dosage form Tablet
    Strength 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg oral tablets depending on salt and release type; topical products differ.
    Prescription classification Both Rx and OTC strengths exist (verified)
    Approved routes of administration Oral
    Applies to IN; product status and availability may vary by jurisdiction

    Approved indications

    • Diclofenac is an NSAID used for short-term relief of pain and inflammation in selected conditions. Suitability depends on the diagnosis, the formulation, and your personal risk factors.

    Contraindications (do not use if…)

    • Avoid diclofenac if you have had a serious reaction to it, aspirin, or another NSAID, if you have active gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration, or around coronary artery bypass surgery. Cardiovascular and pregnancy restrictions apply.

    Important precautions

    • Diclofenac increases the risk of stomach bleeding, heart attack, stroke, and kidney injury. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed. Do not combine with other NSAIDs without professional advice.

    Common side effects

    • Common side effects include indigestion, stomach pain, nausea, dizziness, and fluid retention.

    Serious side effects — seek urgent medical care

    • Seek urgent help for chest pain, sudden weakness, black stools, vomiting blood, reduced urine output, facial swelling, or a severe skin reaction.

    Important interactions

    • Diclofenac can interact with anticoagulants, antiplatelets, corticosteroids, SSRIs/SNRIs, ACE inhibitors or ARBs, diuretics, lithium, methotrexate, and other NSAIDs.

    Allergy considerations

    • Avoid diclofenac if you have had a serious reaction to it, aspirin, or another NSAID, including NSAID-triggered asthma or facial swelling.

    Pregnancy and lactation

    Pregnancy safety Generally avoided
    Notes
    • Do not self-use diclofenac during pregnancy. NSAIDs pose important risks to the developing baby from mid-pregnancy onward and are generally avoided late in pregnancy.

    Information

    Lactation safety Use with caution — see notes
    Notes
    • Discuss diclofenac use with your doctor, especially for repeated doses, higher strengths, or if your baby is newborn or premature.

    Children and older adults

    • Formulation and dose restrictions vary by age. Older adults have a higher risk of stomach, heart, and kidney complications.

    Storage

    • Store in original packaging away from moisture and excess heat, out of children's reach.

    Missed dose

    • Follow your prescription leaflet. For as-needed use, follow package instructions. Do not double the next dose.

    Overdose

    • An overdose can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney injury, drowsiness, and other serious effects. Seek urgent medical advice.

    This page is general information, not personal advice. Never change, start or stop any medicine without speaking to your doctor or pharmacist.