| name | Diclofenac |
| classification | Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, peak plasma levels achieved within 1-2 hours. | | distribution | Distributed widely throughout the body, with high concentrations in the inflamed tissues. | | metabolism | Metabolized primarily in the liver, with a significant portion of the drug excreted in the urine. | | elimination | Elimination half-life varies depending on the formulation, typically ranging from 1-3 hours. |
|
| suggested dosage | | oral | The recommended dosage for various conditions varies, and it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate dosage for a particular condition. Typical starting doses for mild to moderate pain or inflammation range from 25 mg to 50 mg every 8 hours. Higher doses or different schedules may be necessary for severe conditions. | | topical | Topical applications have different dosing regimens. Refer to the specific product information. |
|
| indications | | 1 | Pain relief from various conditions (e.g., osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, back pain, menstrual cramps). | | 2 | Reduction of inflammation. | | 3 | Treatment of fever. |
|
| safety in pregnancy | Diclofenac should be used with caution during pregnancy, particularly in the later stages. Potential risks to the fetus exist and should be discussed with the prescribing physician. Use only when benefits clearly outweigh the risks. Avoid use during the third trimester. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Diclofenac is present in breast milk. It is often recommended to discontinue breastfeeding while taking diclofenac, or to weigh the potential benefits against possible risks to the infant. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice. |
| side effects | | 1 | Gastrointestinal upset (e.g., nausea, vomiting, heartburn, stomach pain, ulcers, bleeding) | | 2 | Headache, dizziness | | 3 | Fluid retention | | 4 | High blood pressure | | 5 | Kidney problems | | 6 | Skin rashes | | 7 | Edema | | 8 | Elevated liver enzymes (transaminases) | | 9 | Bleeding risk |
|
| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | History of allergic reactions to diclofenac or other NSAIDs | | 2 | Active gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration | | 3 | Severe heart failure | | 4 | Active or recent bleeding disorders | | 5 | Kidney disease | | 6 | Certain liver diseases |
|
| interactions | | 1 | Other NSAIDs, anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) | | 2 | Corticosteroids | | 3 | Diuretics | | 4 | Certain medications for high blood pressure | | 5 | Lithium |
|
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Patients with a history of peptic ulcers or GI bleeding should use with extreme caution and consider a PPI (proton pump inhibitor) if diclofenac is necessary. | | 2 | Monitor for signs of bleeding, kidney problems, fluid retention or edema. | | 3 | Patients with hypertension or pre-existing cardiovascular disease should be closely monitored. | | 4 | Patients with asthma, allergic rhinitis, or nasal polyps may be at increased risk of hypersensitivity reactions. |
|
| additional informations | | patient specific details | For a patient aged 25 and weighing 70kg, the initial dosage should be within the typical range as mentioned. Crucially, the dosage and duration of use should be determined and monitored by a medical professional. Self-treating with medications like diclofenac is not advised. It's essential to undergo a proper medical assessment to determine the appropriate course of treatment, considering the individual's health status and any pre-existing conditions. |
|
