Diclofenac Sodium

Diclofenac sodium is an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug), which is used for reducing fever, pain and inflammation. Diclofenac sodium may be used to treat various forms of arthritis, and overall body pain such as headache or backache. It is also used in veterinary medicine as a topical cream, for horses who are lame. It is sold under the brand names Voltaren and Cataflam. It can be found in tablet, topical gel, and eye drop form, although tablets are the most common, with delayed release tablets also available. A common dose of Diclofenac sodium tablets is 50 mg to 75 mg, and may be given more than once per day.

Side effects of Diclofenac Sodium are generally very mild. As it is one of the most well-tolerated NSAIDs, most people are not bothered enough by side effects to stop taking the drug. These side effects may include stomach irritation, and rarely, liver damage. Stomach irritation is generally not a concern, unless bleeding ulcers develop. In that case, the patient may vomit blood, or vomit what looks like coffee grounds-such vomiting requires immediate medical attention. You should report any side effects to your doctor, however, to make sure you are not among the few people who do not tolerate Diclofenac sodium well.

In case of overdose, the patient should be transported immediately to the hospital. Symptoms of overdose may include blurred vision, stomach pain and bleeding, convulsions, and drowsiness. If the patient receives prompt medical care, the chance of recovery from the overdose is very good.

Patients who are using Diclofenac Sodium on a long-term basis should undergo regular bloodwork to monitor kidney and liver function. This is especially true for elderly patients. Patients with Crohn's disease, insufficiency of the heart or liver, or bleeding of the stomach or brain should not take Diclofenac Sodium. People recovering from heart bypass surgery should also avoid Diclofenac Sodium. Pregnant women should not take Diclofenac Sodium in the last trimester of pregnancy. Women in the first two trimesters of pregnancy, and women who are breastfeeding, should consult their doctor before taking this medication. Inform your doctor if you have any of these conditions or other chronic conditions, or if you are taking any other medications, to avoid interaction and side effects.

Consult with your doctor before beginning a regimen of Diclofenac Sodium. Although side effects and interactions are generally mild, if they occur at all, Diclofenac Sodium is still a prescription medication, and as such, should be taken only under a doctor's care.