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Diclofenac is a preparation that is available in pharmacies in the form of tablets, gels, injections and patches. This drug has found its greatest use in rheumatology, but it is also used by people who try to combat the pain associated with injuries or, in the case of women, with menstruation. What are the indications for the use of diclofenac?
Diclofenac – drug characteristics
Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, an aminophenylacetic acid derivative. This preparation was introduced into the medical circulation in 1979 and is now one of the most frequently prescribed and used anti-inflammatory drugs. There are several dozen preparations available in Poland that contain diclofenac. Although diclofenac is an acid, it is pharmacologically in the form of the sodium salt.
Diclofenac – composition and mode of action
The composition of drugs, the main active substance of which is diclofenac, varies and depends on the type of a given preparation. For example, gel preparations, apart from sodium diclofenac, are enriched with auxiliary substances such as: carbomer, isopropyl alcohol, liquid paraffin, lavender oil, lemon oil or purified water. The basis of the mechanism of action of diclofenac is the inhibition of the activity of cycloxygenase, an enzyme that is involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins from lipids in cell membranes. Pro-inflammatory prostaglandins play an important role in the development of inflammatory symptoms. The advantage of diclofenac is that it also inhibits the activity of lipoxygenase, an enzyme responsible for the formation of other pro-inflammatory factors.
Diclofenac – indications
The indication for the use of diclofenac is any inflammation, pain or swelling. Diclofenac is a drug used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis or gout. Diclofenac can bring relief in the treatment of post-traumatic pain, postoperative pain, neuralgia, menstrual pain and inflammation of the appendages. Ophthalmologists prescribe diclofenac to patients with anterior segment inflammation, following cataract surgery, or for the prevention of intraoperative miosis.
Diclofenac – contraindications
The use of diclofenac is not recommended for all patients. There are contraindications that exclude the possibility of using this drug. Diclofenac cannot be used by patients who are hypersensitive to any of the ingredients of the drug. Contraindications to the use of dicofanek are also: gastric and duodenal ulcer disease, aspirin-induced asthma, impaired liver function, renal failure or porphyria. The drug should also not be used by children under 12 years of age. The use of diclofenac is also limited by congestive heart failure, ischemic heart disease, peripheral arterial disease, and cerebrovascular disease. Specialists do not recommend the use of diclofenac in cases of hypertension, hyperlipidemia or diabetes. Diclofenac should also not be taken by patients who smoke cigarettes.
Diclofenac – side effects
The use of diclofenac may cause side effects, especially in the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, skin and cardiovascular system. The gastrointestinal side effects include: indigestion, nausea, epigastric pain, flatulence, diarrhea and constipation. In the case of the kidneys, acute renal failure, hematuria or proteinuria may occur. Allergic reactions such as hives, purpura and even hair loss may occur.
Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health.