Medicines
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Voltaren, Cataflam, Zorvolex, Cambia, Pennsaid, Solaraze, Zipsor, Arthrotec
Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation. It works by reducing hormones that cause pain and swelling in the body. It is available in various formulations, including oral tablets, capsules, topical gels, and ophthalmic solutions. Diclofenac belongs to the arylalkanoic acid class of NSAIDs.
For pain, fever, inflammation associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and menstrual cramps.
Diclofenac, like other NSAIDs, may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may increase with duration of use. Patients with cardiovascular disease or risk factors for cardiovascular disease may be at greater risk. Diclofenac is contraindicated for the treatment of perioperative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. NSAIDs cause an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events, including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms. Elderly patients are at greater risk for serious gastrointestinal events.
Outcome:
Increased risk of bleeding
Mechanism:
Diclofenac can displace warfarin from protein binding sites, increasing its free concentration.
Outcome:
Increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding
Mechanism:
Additive irritant effect on the stomach lining.
Outcome:
Reduced absorption of diclofenac
Mechanism:
Antacids can alter gastric pH.
Most likely new formulation: Topical patch with improved delivery system (2025, 70% confidence)
Based on current usage trends and safety profile, there is a low ( <5%) likelihood of diclofenac being withdrawn from the market in the next 5 years.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Phenylacetic acid derivative