DICLOMOL SR

# Diclofenac 100 mg ## SHORT DESCRIPTION **Diclofenac 100 mg** is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (**NSAID**) used to relieve **pain, inflammation, and swelling** associated with various musculoskeletal and inflammatory conditions. It may be available as a modified-release or extended-release formulation depending on the manufacturer. Diclofenac is generally intended for **short-term use at the lowest effective dose** because NSAIDs can increase the risk of gastrointestinal, kidney, cardiovascular, and other complications. ## KEY BENEFITS * Helps relieve mild to moderate pain * Reduces inflammation and swelling * Helps improve movement affected by inflammatory pain * May provide relief in arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions * Can reduce pain associated with certain acute inflammatory conditions * 100 mg formulations may provide prolonged pain and inflammation control when supplied as modified-release tablets ## USES / INDICATIONS Diclofenac 100 mg may be prescribed for: * **Osteoarthritis** * **Rheumatoid arthritis** * Ankylosing spondylitis * Acute musculoskeletal pain * Sprains and strains * Inflammatory joint conditions * Pain and inflammation following certain injuries or procedures * Other painful inflammatory conditions as determined by a healthcare professional The exact indication depends on the formulation and local prescribing guidelines. ## HOW IT WORKS Diclofenac blocks **cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes**, which are involved in the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins contribute to pain, inflammation, and fever. By reducing prostaglandin production, diclofenac helps decrease: * Pain * Swelling * Inflammation * Fever associated with inflammatory conditions **Diclofenac → Inhibits COX enzymes → Reduces prostaglandins → Decreases pain and inflammation** ## DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION The appropriate dose depends on the condition, formulation, age, and individual risk factors. For adults, diclofenac is generally prescribed at the **lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration**. A 100 mg formulation may be designed for once-daily use when it is a modified-release preparation. * Take exactly as prescribed. * Swallow modified-release or extended-release tablets **whole with water**. * Do not crush, chew, or split modified-release tablets unless the product instructions specifically allow it. * Taking diclofenac with or after food may help reduce stomach discomfort. * Do not exceed the prescribed daily dose. * Avoid taking additional NSAIDs unless your doctor specifically recommends them. ### Missed Dose Take the missed dose when remembered unless it is nearly time for your next dose. **Do not take two doses together.** ## SIDE EFFECTS Common side effects may include: * Indigestion * Stomach pain or discomfort * Nausea * Vomiting * Diarrhea * Constipation * Gas or bloating * Headache * Dizziness * Skin rash ### Serious Side Effects Stop taking diclofenac and seek urgent medical attention if you experience: * Black or bloody stools * Vomiting blood or material resembling coffee grounds * Severe stomach pain * Chest pain * Difficulty breathing * Sudden weakness or speech problems * Severe allergic reaction * Facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling * Significant reduction in urine output * Severe skin rash, blistering, or peeling ## PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS ### Stomach and Intestinal Problems Diclofenac can cause **stomach ulcers, bleeding, or perforation**, sometimes without warning. Risk is higher in people with: * Previous stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding * Older age * Long-term NSAID use * High NSAID doses * Concurrent corticosteroid or anticoagulant therapy ### Cardiovascular Risk NSAIDs, including diclofenac, may increase the risk of **heart attack or stroke**, particularly with higher doses or prolonged treatment. Use extra caution if you have: * Heart disease * Previous heart attack or stroke * High blood pressure * High cholesterol * Diabetes * A history of smoking ### Kidney Disease Diclofenac can reduce kidney function, particularly in people who are dehydrated or already have kidney disease. ### Liver Disease Diclofenac can affect liver function. Tell your doctor if you have liver disease or develop symptoms such as persistent nausea, unusual tiredness, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. ### Asthma Some people with asthma can experience worsening breathing symptoms with NSAIDs. Tell your doctor if you have experienced asthma or allergic reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. ### Pregnancy Diclofenac should generally be **avoided during the third trimester of pregnancy** because NSAIDs can cause serious fetal and pregnancy-related complications. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. ### Breastfeeding Consult your healthcare professional before using diclofenac while breastfeeding. ## DRUG INTERACTIONS Diclofenac can interact with several medicines, including: * **Warfarin and other anticoagulants** * Aspirin * Other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or indomethacin * Corticosteroids such as prednisolone * Antiplatelet medicines such as clopidogrel * SSRIs and SNRIs * ACE inhibitors * Angiotensin receptor blockers * Diuretics * Lithium * Methotrexate * Cyclosporine or tacrolimus * Certain medicines for diabetes * Some antihypertensive medicines Combining diclofenac with other NSAIDs can increase the risk of gastrointestinal and kidney-related adverse effects. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements you use. ## STORAGE INFORMATION * Store according to the manufacturer's instructions. * Keep at room temperature unless otherwise specified. * Protect from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. * Keep tablets in their original packaging. * Keep the container tightly closed. * Keep out of reach and sight of children. * Do not use after the expiry date. * Do not use tablets from damaged packaging. ## PRESCRIPTION STATUS **Diclofenac 100 mg is generally a prescription medicine**, although availability and legal classification can vary depending on the country and formulation. Because 100 mg preparations can be modified-release products, use them only according to the prescribed instructions. ## GENUINE MEDICINE ASSURANCE To help ensure you receive genuine Diclofenac 100 mg: * Purchase from a licensed and reputable pharmacy. * Check the medicine name and strength. * Verify the manufacturer's information. * Check the batch number and expiry date. * Ensure the packaging is sealed and undamaged. * Confirm the dosage form, especially if the product is modified-release. * Avoid products with altered or suspicious packaging. * Purchase prescription medicines only from authorized sources. * Ask your pharmacist to verify the product if you have concerns about authenticity. ## FAQ SECTION ### What is Diclofenac 100 mg used for? Diclofenac 100 mg is an NSAID used to relieve **pain and inflammation** associated with conditions such as arthritis, musculoskeletal disorders, and other inflammatory conditions. ### Is Diclofenac 100 mg a painkiller? Yes. Diclofenac is an **NSAID painkiller and anti-inflammatory medicine**. ### How does Diclofenac work? Diclofenac reduces the production of prostaglandins by inhibiting COX enzymes, helping reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation. ### Is Diclofenac 100 mg used for arthritis? Yes. Diclofenac may be prescribed for **osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis**, and other inflammatory joint conditions. ### Can Diclofenac reduce swelling? Yes. Because diclofenac has anti-inflammatory activity, it can help reduce swelling associated with inflammatory conditions. ### How long does Diclofenac take to work? Pain relief can begin relatively soon after taking diclofenac, although the onset and duration vary depending on the formulation and individual response. ### Should Diclofenac 100 mg be taken with food? Taking diclofenac with or after food may help reduce stomach discomfort. Follow the instructions supplied with your specific formulation. ### Can I take Diclofenac 100 mg every day? Diclofenac should be taken only as prescribed. NSAIDs are generally recommended at the **lowest effective dose for the shortest appropriate duration**. ### Can I take Diclofenac with Ibuprofen? Generally, you should **not combine diclofenac with ibuprofen or other NSAIDs** unless specifically instructed by your doctor, because this can increase the risk of stomach, kidney, and cardiovascular side effects. ### Can Diclofenac be taken with Paracetamol? Paracetamol and diclofenac may sometimes be used together under appropriate medical advice, but you should follow the recommended doses and consider your individual medical history. ### Can Diclofenac cause stomach ulcers? Yes. Diclofenac can cause stomach or intestinal ulcers and bleeding, particularly with high doses, prolonged use, older age, or certain interacting medicines. ### Can Diclofenac cause kidney problems? Yes. NSAIDs can reduce kidney function, particularly in people with kidney disease, dehydration, heart failure, or those taking certain blood-pressure medicines or diuretics. ### Can Diclofenac increase blood pressure? Diclofenac and other NSAIDs may cause fluid retention and can increase blood pressure in some people. ### Can Diclofenac cause heart problems? NSAIDs including diclofenac can increase the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke, particularly with higher doses and prolonged treatment. ### Can Diclofenac be used during pregnancy? Diclofenac should generally be **avoided during the third trimester**. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy before taking it. ### Can Diclofenac be used while breastfeeding? Consult your healthcare professional before using diclofenac while breastfeeding. ### Can Diclofenac be taken with blood thinners? Diclofenac can increase the risk of bleeding when combined with anticoagulants such as warfarin. Use together only under appropriate medical supervision. ### Can Diclofenac be taken with steroids? Combining diclofenac with corticosteroids can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers. Tell your doctor if you take corticosteroids. ### Can Diclofenac cause dizziness? Yes. Dizziness or headache can occur. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel dizzy or impaired. ### What should I do if I miss a dose of Diclofenac? Take the missed dose when you remember unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not take two doses together. ### Can I stop Diclofenac suddenly? If diclofenac has been prescribed for short-term pain relief, it can generally be discontinued when treatment is no longer required according to medical advice. If you have been taking it regularly for a chronic condition, consult your doctor before changing your treatment plan. ### Is Diclofenac 100 mg a strong painkiller? Diclofenac 100 mg is a relatively high-strength NSAID formulation and should be used according to medical advice. Higher doses do not necessarily provide proportionally greater pain relief but can increase adverse-effect risks. ### Is Diclofenac an antibiotic? No. Diclofenac is **not an antibiotic**. It is an NSAID used to treat pain and inflammation. ### Is Diclofenac a steroid? No. Diclofenac is a **non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)**. ### How should Diclofenac 100 mg be stored? Store it according to the manufacturer's instructions, generally at room temperature and away from excessive heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. ## MEDICAL DISCLAIMER This information about **Diclofenac 100 mg** is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Diclofenac is an NSAID that can cause serious **gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, kidney, liver, and allergic complications** in susceptible individuals. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest appropriate duration. Do not combine diclofenac with other NSAIDs unless specifically instructed by a healthcare professional. Seek urgent medical attention for **chest pain, difficulty breathing, black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, severe abdominal pain, sudden weakness, or signs of a severe allergic reaction**. Always follow your doctor's prescription and the manufacturer's instructions regarding dosage, formulation, contraindications, drug interactions, and duration of treatment.