Generic Name : DICLOFENAC (ORAL/OPHTHALMIC/TOPICAL) ABSTRACT – Diclofenac is a prescription drug that is used to treat the painful...
Diclofenac
Diclofenac is a prescription drug that is used to treat the painful symptoms that are associated with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. This drug works against inflammations in the body by altering the substances that are at fault for the same. Certain other brands of this drug are also used in the treatment of a variety of inflammation-related problems, such as menstrual cramps, migraine headache attacks, inflammations on the skin, warty overgrowths on skin (topical), or even swelling in the eyes and sensitivity reduction after a cataract surgery (ophthalmic). This drug is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
DOSAGE –
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- Diclofenac is to be taken as directed by the doctors. Different variations and brands carry different dosages and varied drug intensities.
- The oral extended-release tablets must be swallowed whole.
- The Cambia powder is dissolved in two ounces of water (avoid other liquids) and drank on an empty stomach.
- The Zorvolex brand of this drug is to be taken on an empty stomach, at least an hour or two after a meal.
- Ophthalmic Diclofenac is to be given a day before the cataract surgery and then continued on for two weeks post-surgery.
- Topical Diclofenac is to be applied directly on the skin. Pennsaid brand of this drug must always be stored in the upright position.
- General Adult Dosage available:
Oral tablet – 25mg, 35mg (Generally taken thrice a day)
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- Ophthalmic (strength) – 0.1% (a drop in the affected eye, four times a day)
- Topical (strength) – 1%, 3%, 1.5% (apply on affected area, twice a day)
SIDE EFFECTS –
- Indigestion
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Itching
- High blood pressure
- Swelling in the arms or legs
- Insomnia (ophthalmic)
- Runny nose (ophthalmic)
RARE SIDE EFFECTS:
- Mild skin rash
- Shortness of breath
- Rapid weight gain
- Internal bleeding
- Severe liver problems
- Kidney problems
- Difficulty urinating
- Extremely high blood pressure
- Low rate of RBCs
- Severe skin reactions
- Severe headaches
- Severe redness or swelling in the eyes (ophthalmic)
DRUG INTERACTIONS –
- Anisindione
- Apixaban
- Ardeparin
- Betrixaban
- Cidofovir
- Dalteparin
- Deferasirox
- Dicumarol
- Edoxaban
- Lomitapide
- Mipomersen
- Omacetaxine
- Sirolimus
- Tacrolimus
- Warfarin
Diclofenac has major interactions with 65 different drugs.
MODERATE DRUG INTERACTIONS –
- Abiraterone
- Acebutolol
- Aliskiren
- Amiodarone
- Amlodipine
- Aspirin
- Benazepril
- Betaxolol
- Bumetanide
- Carvedilol
- Citalopram
- Delafloxacin
- Efavirenz
- Entecavir
- Furosemide
- Heparin
- Iloprost
Diclofenac has moderate interactions with 248 different drugs.
PRECAUTIONS –
- Provide the doctor with a detailed and accurate medical history prior to drug prescription. Notify especially in case of any heart condition, stroke or blood clot, stomach ulcers or internal bleeding, asthmatic conditions, liver/kidney diseases or fluid retention.
- Prior to using the ophthalmic form of this drug, make sure to notify the doctor in case of diabetic conditions, glaucoma or dry eye syndrome. Notify in case of the usage of blood thinners as well.
- Do not wear contact lenses for as long as 3 days after the cataract surgery while using ophthalmic form.
- Do not consume this drug in case of an allergy to aspirin or the drug itself, or in case of recent bypass heart surgery.
- Do not use the Cambia brand of this drug to treat cluster headaches, and avoid using Zipsor in case of allergies to beef protein.
- Do not apply Topical form on open skin wounds or infected areas.
- Do not use this drug while pregnant, as it may harm the unborn baby in the last 3 months of a pregnancy. This drug can also affect ovulation prior to pregnancy.
- Do not nurse while using this drug, to avoid risks.
- Avoid alcohol, aspirin and other NSAIDs while on drug course.
WARNINGS –
- This drug can increase the patient’s risk of heart attacks or strokes, especially in case of pre-existing heart conditions.
- This drug can cause fatal internal bleeding within the stomach, especially in older adults in certain cases.
- Keep out of reach of children. This drug is not recommended for anyone under the age of 18.
- In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.
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