Diclofenac (Na)
Diclofenac (Na) is NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug). Diclofenac (Na) is a simple phenylacetic acid derivative. It resembles both flurbiprofen and meclofenamate. It reduces fever and inflammation and relieves pain.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Amino Phenyl Acetate.
It belongs to Cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action. It is also classified under Analgesics and Anti-inflammatory Agents .
Molecular Weight: 318.1 · pKa: 4 · Solubility in Water: sparingly soluble · Solubility in Alcohol: high (free acid) · Non-proprietary name: Diclofenac (Na) · pH: 7.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Diclofenac (Na) has an oral bioavailability is 90%, pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 40%.
Distribution: Diclofenac (Na) has a volume of distribution is 0.12 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 99.5%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via extensive, plasma half-life is 1-2 hr, renal excretion is major ( 65% in urine).
Advertisement
Indications
Diclofenac (Na) is primarily indicated in conditions like Acute exacerbation of pain and post operative pain, Acute gout, Ankylosing spondylitis, Bursitis, Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, Juvenile chronic arthritis, Low back pain, Musculoskeletal disorders, Osteoarthritis, Peptic ulcer, Periarthritis, Pernicious anaemia and other macrocytic anaemias, Post-operative pain, Prevention of postoperative pain, Rheumatoid arthritis, Sprains, Strains, Tendinitis, Tenosynovitis, Tobacco amblyopia and leber's optic atrophy, Ureteric colic.
Contraindications
Diclofenac (Na) is contraindicated in conditions like Asthma, Peptic ulcer, Renal impairment, Hypersensitivity, GI bleeding, Hemorrhagic diathesis.
Dosage
Diclofenac (Na)'s dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 75 mg | 75 mg | Every 1h | Deep IM | For maximum 2 days Continue with tabs if necessary. If needed frequency may increased to twice/day. |
| 0.1 % | 0.1 % | — | Ophthalmic | As Required.To be given as drops. |
| 75 – 150 mg | — | Every 2h | PO | Administer Orally after food. Frequency may be increased to 3 times if needed. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 0.5 mg/kg | 0.5 mg/kg | Every 6h | Oral | - |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | Not used in this age group | |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Diclofenac (Na) in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Blood dyscrasias , Bleeding , Lower gut disorders , Papillary necrosis , Nephrotic syndrome , Peptic ulceration , Anaphylactoid reactions .
Diclofenac (Na) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Blood dyscrasias, Anaphylaxis , perforation of peptic ulcer, GI hemorrhage. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Diclofenac (Na) are Oliguria or anuria, Somnolence, Unconsciousness, Nausea, Jaundice , Hepatopathy, Myoclonic encephalopathy, Upper abdominal pain, Vomiting, Melena, GI hemorrhage, Hiccup, Dizziness, Headache.
Diclofenac (Na) is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abdominal cramps, Anorexia , Anxiety, Burning, Constipation , Depression, Diarrhea, Dizziness, Drowsiness, Dyspepsia , Epigastric pain, Eye irritation, Flatulence, Headache, Hearing disturbances, Insomnia, Irritability, Itching, Nausea, Nightmares, Pain , Paresthesias, Rashes , Taste disturbances, Tiredness , Tremors, ulceration of conjuctiva and cornea,, Vertigo, Vision disturbances, Vomiting .
Warnings / Precautions
Available Brands
Click on a strength to view available brands.
Single Ingredient
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.2.1.3 — Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- 2.2.5 — Antirheumatics, topical
- 3.21.2.3 — Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Diclofenac (Na) in Pakistan: