Diclofenac Sodium Tablets
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Diclofenac sodium tablets for pain relief in the UK
Diclofenac is the name of the drug, and when it’s referred to as Diclofenac Sodium, it means it's in a sodium salt form, which is the common way it's formulated in medications. The sodium salt form helps with absorption and effectiveness.
Diclofenac is a generic drug (Non-branded medication) and comes in two salt versions called Diclofenac potassium and Diclofenac sodium. It is also available in the form of:
- Enteric-coated tablet
- Capsule
- Extended-release tablet
- Tablet
- Powder for solution
- Liquid filled capsule
Diclofenac tablets (available over-the-counter) and Diclofenac 50mg tablets (prescription-only) are FDA-approved medications used to treat mild to moderate pain.
It is used to manage symptoms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, as well as gout and ankylosing spondylitis, which is inflammation of the spine.
Additionally, the Cataflam brand of diclofenac is specifically used to relieve menstrual cramps.
It also available in other forms. Diclofenac powder (marketed as Cambia) is used to treat migraine or headache attacks, but it does not prevent future headaches or reduce their frequency.
Diclofenac sodium is also available in the form of plasters and gels to alleviate joint pain. In medical settings, particularly in hospitals, it can be administered as eye drops or injections.
High-strength Diclofenac gel, which contains 3% Diclofenac, is specifically used to treat actinic keratoses. Actinic keratoses are dry, scaly patches on the skin caused by prolonged exposure to the sun.
Diclofenac potassium tablet
Diclofenac Potassium is one of the salt forms of diclofenac, similar to Diclofenac Sodium. It is used to treat pain and inflammation, just like Diclofenac Sodium, but it may be absorbed into the bloodstream more quickly.
This faster absorption can make Diclofenac Potassium particularly useful for fast relief of acute pain conditions.
Diclofenac Potassium is typically available in immediate-release tablet form, which provides quicker pain relief compared to extended-release formulations. It is used for conditions such as:
- Acute pain: Fast relief for sudden onset pain.
- Period pain: Provides rapid relief from menstrual pain.
- Migraine: Can be used to alleviate migraine attacks.
Like other forms of diclofenac, Diclofenac Potassium is effective for treating conditions involving pain and inflammation, but its quicker action can be beneficial for managing more immediate pain.
Diclofenac Uses: what are the benefits of using Diclofenac?
Most Common Uses of Diclofenac sodium tablets
- Pain relief: For mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, toothaches, and muscle aches.
- Arthritis: Helps manage symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, including inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain.
- Period Pains: Can alleviate pain associated with menstrual cramps.
Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly prescribed to relieve various pain conditions. It effectively reduces pain, swelling, and inflammation, making it useful for managing several types of ailments. Diclofenac tablets are used to treat:
- Mild to moderate pain (headaches, toothaches, muscle aches)
- Swelling
- Inflammation
- Arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
- Joint stiffness
- Ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis affecting the spine)
- Menstrual cramps (Dysmenorrhea)
- Migraine headaches
- Back pain
- Gout
- Toothache
- Strains and sprains in ligaments or muscles
However, you must consult your doctor before taking Diclofenac and take it according to your doctor’s recommendation.
How Do Diclofenac Pills Help with Pain? Mechanism of Action of Diclofenac
Diclofenac sodium tablet is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that possesses antipyretic effects and analgesic properties.
It works by blocking the production of substances called prostaglandins. These substances are involved in causing inflammation, pain, and fever. By reducing prostaglandin levels, diclofenac helps to alleviate these symptoms.
Author Bio
| Name | Mr Suhail Jamil |
| Role | Superintendent Pharmacist |
| GPhc Number | 2069518 |
Frequently asked questions
Diclofenac is a versatile NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) used for pain relief and reducing inflammation. It is generally prescribed for adults, and suitability depends on your medical history and any medicines you take.
For full instructions, please refer to the Diclofenac patient leaflet that will be provided with your order.
Diclofenac can be more effective than ibuprofen for some types of inflammatory pain, but “stronger” depends on the dose and the individual. Diclofenac Tablets can also cause side effects, so use them exactly as prescribed.
How long does diclofenac take to work? Diclofenac Tablets may start to relieve pain within 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the formulation. However, full pain relief will take several days, especially in chronic pain.
Diclofenac usually starts working within 1–2 hours, with peak effects in 3–4 hours. Most of the drug is cleared from the body within about 24 hours, but its pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects may last longer depending on the formulation and dose.
Diclofenac and Naproxen are both effective NSAIDs, and the best option depends on your condition, dose, and risk factors. Their effectiveness and strength vary from person to person, depending on different conditions.
Diclofenac is not a muscle relaxer, but a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. It is an MHRA-approved drug that is used to reduce pain and inflammation. If you have muscle pain, speak to a clinician so the cause can be assessed and the right treatment chosen.
Diclofenac and ibuprofen are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. You must not take both drugs at a time as they can cause serious side effects such as kidney damage or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Only take the dose you have been prescribed. Many people are prescribed up to a total of 150 mg per day in divided doses, but your prescription label is the safest guide. Do not increase your dose yourself if symptoms persist.
Naproxen and Diclofenac are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is not advisable to use Nnaproxen with Diclofenac as it can cause serious side effects.
If you use Diclofenac for a long time or already have a heart problem, Diclofenac may increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke. So before taking Diclofenac, tell your doctor about your health condition and take Diclofenac according to your doctor’s recommendation.
If you use Diclofenac Tablets long-term, it can increase the risk of kidney problems, especially if you already have kidney disease or you are dehydrated. So, consult your prescriber before taking Diclofenac.
Diclofenac is not an addictive drug. However, you must take it according to your prescriber’s recommended dose, as high doses will cause serious side effects. If you want to stop taking Diclofenac, speak to our prescribing team, particularly if you are using it for an ongoing condition.
Diclofenac Tablets are prescription-only in the UK. If you want to buy Diclofenac, you can complete the online assessment and, if approved, your treatment can be supplied by our UK-registered pharmacy. Some diclofenac gels and topical products may be available without a prescription.