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Diclofenac
INFORMATION ABOUT DICLOFENAC
Diclofenac Uses
Diclofenac is used for pain relief. It relieves pain in conditions like headache, mild migraine, muscle pain, dental pain, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis, or painful menses.
How Diclofenac works
Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking the release of certain chemical messengers that cause pain and inflammation (redness and swelling).
Common side effects of Diclofenac
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common
Diarrhea, Flatulence, Vomiting, Headache, Dizziness, Nausea, Constipation, Abdominal pain, Dyspepsia, Gastrointestinal bleeding, Gastrointestinal ulcer, Rash, Application site irritation, Injection site pain
CONTENT DETAILS
Last updated
25 Nov 2025 | 09:34 AM (UTC)
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Medicine brands for Diclofenac
Expert advice for Diclofenac
- You have been prescribed Diclofenac to relieve pain and inflammation.
- Take it with food or milk to prevent upset stomach.
- Take it as per the dose and duration prescribed by your doctor. Long term use may lead to serious complications such as stomach bleeding and kidney problems.
- It may cause dizziness, drowsiness or visual disturbances. Use caution while driving or doing anything that requires concentration.
- Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Diclofenac as it can cause excessive drowsiness and increase your risk of stomach problems.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart disease or stroke.
- Your doctor may regularly monitor your kidney function, liver function and levels of blood components, if you are taking this medicine for long-term treatment.
Frequently asked questions for Diclofenac
Diclofenac is effective in relieving pain and inflammation. It is used for various sorts of pain such as sprains, strains and other injuries. It is also helpful in various types of arthritis, gout, pain and inflammation following surgery.
No, Diclofenac is not a narcotic. It belongs to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) group of medicines.
No, Diclofenac does not get you high. It does not have an abuse potential (drug-seeking behavior) and does not cause physical or psychological dependence. However, if you do not feel well, consult your doctor.
Long-term use and high doses of Diclofenac may cause renal problems such as protein or blood in urine and painful urination. Patients who are at maximum risk of developing kidney problems include people who are dehydrated, have heart failure, impaired kidney function, hypertension, elderly, who are on medicines which cause excess urination (diuretics), or medicines which have significant impact on kidney function. Hence, for such patients kidney function monitoring is recommended.
Diclofenac can cause drowsiness and also dizziness, fatigue (tiredness) and visual disturbances. However, it is not very common and may not affect everyone. If you experience these symptoms avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
It is important to know that Diclofenac may increase your chance of having a heart attack or stroke. The risk is more if you take higher doses and have been using the medicine for a longer time. Also, taking Diclofenac may cause ulcers, bleeding, or holes in your stomach and intestine. These problems may happen without warning symptoms at any time during treatment and may even cause death. Therefore, if you encounter any such problems, consult your doctor immediately.
You should not take Diclofenac during the last 3 months of pregnancy as it may cause harmful effects on your baby. Use of Diclofenac can also lead to reduced labor (premature delivery). Hence, it is advised to avoid using Diclofenac during the first 6 months of pregnancy also. In some cases, Diclofenac may be prescribed in pregnant women only if the benefits outweigh the risks involved with its use in pregnant women. If not sure, consult your doctor regarding its use.