Diclofenac Sodium

Dosage Forms Available

• Diclofenac Sodium can be taken orally (tablet and capsule), administered intramuscularly (infusion by vein), applied topically (gel), and instilled topically into eyes (drops).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is intended for use in adults and children above 12 years of age when prescribed by a doctor.

Contraindications

• Diclofenac Sodium is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to it or any ingredients in its formulation.

• It should not be used by patients who have had asthmatic reactions, hives, or allergic reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.

• It is contraindicated in individuals with an active stomach or intestinal ulcer, severe kidney disease, severe liver disease and patients scheduled for coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Diclofenac Sodium may interact with other NSAIDs (like ibuprofen and naproxen), blood thinners (such as warfarin and apixaban), steroids (like prednisone and prednisolone), mood stabilisers (like lithium), blood pressure medicines (like ACE inhibitors), antidepressants (like SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, methotrexate, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, digoxin and quinolone).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdosing on Diclofenac Sodium may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, drowsiness, dizziness, headache, bloody or black stools, coughing up blood, shallow breathing, fainting, and even coma. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• If you miss a dose of Diclofenac Sodium, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Doubling up on doses is not advisable.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects will resolve upon discontinuing Diclofenac Sodium. However, if side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

• To manage stomach discomfort, take the medicine with food.

• If experiencing dizziness or drowsiness, avoid engaging in activities requiring alertness until the effects have subsided.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Diclofenac Sodium may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience these side effects.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Diclofenac Sodium is not recommended during the third trimester of pregnancy as it may harm the fetus. Use during the first and second trimesters or while breastfeeding should be only under a doctor's supervision.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Caution should be exercised when using Diclofenac Sodium in patients with asthma, bleeding/clotting disorders, heart disease, high blood pressure, stomach ulcers or bleeding, and liver or kidney disease.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Engage in regular physical activity to improve joint flexibility and reduce pain and inflammation.

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on joints and alleviate symptoms.

• Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants to reduce inflammation and promote overall health.

• Manage stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga, as stress can intensify pain and inflammation.

• Get adequate sleep as lack of sleep can worsen symptoms and affect overall health.