Diclofenac

What is it?

Composition

The composition of the drug Diclofenac may vary depending on the form of release, but the active component in all cases is diclofenac sodium or diclofenac potassium. These substances provide the main therapeutic effect of the drug. In addition to the active component, the composition includes excipients that improve the absorption, stability and distribution of the drug in the body.

A typical composition for the tablet form of Diclofenac may include:

• Diclofenac sodium or diclofenac potassium is the main active substance responsible for the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect.
• Microcrystalline cellulose is used as a binder.
• Magnesium stearate is an antifriction agent, preventing the components from sticking together.
• Lactose is an auxiliary component that improves the taste and promotes better absorption of the drug.
• Crospovidone is a helper that helps the tablet dissolve quickly and release the active substance.

How to use?

The use of Diclofenac depends on the dosage form and the severity of the patients condition. It is important to follow the doctors recommendations and the instructions provided in the instructions for use to avoid the risk of side effects and achieve maximum treatment effectiveness.

In general, the following steps are recommended for Diclofenac tablets:

1. Take the drug orally with plenty of water, preferably after meals to reduce stomach irritation.
2. The dosage and frequency of administration depend on the degree of pain and inflammation, but adults are usually prescribed 50 to 150 mg per day, divided into 2-3 doses.
3. Do not chew or break the tablets unless directed to do so in the instructions, as this may affect the speed and effectiveness of the drug.

How does it work?

Diclofenac works by inhibiting the activity of the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which plays a key role in the synthesis of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are substances that cause inflammation, pain, and swelling in response to injury or infection. By inhibiting this enzyme, Diclofenac effectively reduces prostaglandin levels, which leads to a decrease in inflammation and pain relief.

The main action of the drug is aimed at reducing inflammatory processes in the body, which makes it especially effective in the treatment of various joint diseases, such as arthritis and rheumatism, as well as injuries and damage to soft tissues. Due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect, Diclofenac helps not only reduce pain, but also improve joint mobility, which has a positive effect on the quality of life of patients.

In addition, the drug begins to act quite quickly, especially when using injection forms or gels, which allows it to be used as a means for the rapid relief of acute pain.

Indications

Diclofenac is widely used to treat various conditions associated with inflammation and pain. This drug is prescribed in cases where fast and effective pain and swelling relief is required, as well as a reduction in the inflammatory process. The main indications for the use of Diclofenac include:

• Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are joint diseases accompanied by chronic inflammation and pain.
• Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory disease of the spine, also known as Bechterews disease.
• Muscle and joint pain caused by injuries, sprains or bruises.
• Postoperative pain, including after orthopedic and dental surgery.
• Headaches and migraines that require rapid analgesia.
• Gynecological pain, such as menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea).

Diclofenac is effective in various inflammatory processes, both acute and chronic, which makes it a universal remedy in the treatment of many diseases accompanied by pain syndrome.

Contraindications

The use of Diclofenac has a number of contraindications that are important to consider before starting treatment. These restrictions are associated with the potential risk of developing side effects and exacerbation of existing diseases. The main contraindications to the use of Diclofenac include:

• Hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to diclofenac or any other components of the drug.
• Acute gastric ulcer or duodenal ulcer.
• Severe liver or kidney dysfunction.
• Cardiovascular diseases, such as severe heart failure, coronary heart disease or myocardial infarction.
• Blood clotting problems or a tendency to bleeding.
• Bronchial asthma, especially if it is associated with the use of aspirin or other NSAIDs.
• Third trimester of pregnancy, since the drug can adversely affect the fetus and cause complications during childbirth.

Side effects

Like most medicines, Diclofenac can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Side effects may depend on the form of the drug, the dosage, and the individual characteristics of the body. The main side effects associated with the use of Diclofenac include:

• Gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, abdominal pain, heartburn or even ulcers of the stomach and duodenum.
• Allergic reactions that can manifest as rash, itching, redness of the skin or hives.
• Headaches, dizziness or drowsiness, which can affect the ability to concentrate and drive vehicles.
• Increased blood pressure or abnormal heart rhythms in patients with a predisposition to cardiovascular disease.
• Impaired liver or kidney function, especially with prolonged use or exceeding the recommended dosage.