What is the use of diclofenac sodium Tablet?

October 7, 2025 •

4 min read

As a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), diclofenac sodium Tablet is primarily used to treat pain and inflammation from a variety of conditions, including arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and menstrual cramps. This prescription medication helps reduce the body's production of natural substances that cause pain and swelling.

Quick Summary

A diclofenac sodium tablet is a potent NSAID used to treat pain and reduce inflammation associated with conditions such as arthritis, menstrual cramps, and migraines.

Key Points

Diclofenac is an NSAID: As a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, diclofenac sodium works by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever.
Treats arthritis effectively: It is commonly prescribed to manage the pain and stiffness associated with chronic arthritic conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
Used for specific acute pain: Beyond arthritis, it is also effective for treating menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea) and acute migraine attacks in specific formulations.
Has significant cardiovascular and GI risks: Diclofenac carries a boxed warning due to the increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and serious gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers, especially with higher doses and long-term use.
Requires careful usage: Patients should use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible under a doctor's supervision, particularly those with pre-existing heart or GI issues.
Interacts with other medications: Diclofenac can interact with other NSAIDs, blood thinners (like warfarin), ACE inhibitors, and diuretics, increasing the risk of serious side effects.

Understanding Diclofenac Sodium

Diclofenac sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by inhibiting the body's production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances released by the body in response to illness or injury, and they are responsible for causing pain, fever, and swelling. By blocking the enzymes (cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2) that produce prostaglandins, diclofenac effectively reduces these symptoms.

The tablet formulation of diclofenac is available in several variations, including delayed-release and extended-release, which affect how the medication is absorbed and its duration of action. Unlike topical formulations, which are applied directly to the skin for localized relief, diclofenac sodium tablets provide systemic relief for conditions affecting the whole body.

Primary Medical Uses

Diclofenac sodium tablets are prescribed for a number of specific conditions where their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties are required. The key uses include:

Pain and Inflammation Management

This tablet formulation is commonly prescribed for the management of mild-to-moderate acute pain and general inflammation. It provides effective relief following injuries, surgery, or other painful events.

Chronic Arthritic Conditions

One of the most common applications for diclofenac sodium is the long-term management of chronic arthritis. It is particularly effective in treating the pain, swelling, stiffness, and tenderness associated with:

Osteoarthritis: Caused by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints, this condition is characterized by joint pain and stiffness. Diclofenac helps manage these symptoms but does not cure the disease itself.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease causing inflammation of the joint lining, rheumatoid arthritis is effectively managed by diclofenac to reduce pain and inflammation.
Ankylosing Spondylitis: This form of arthritis primarily affects the spine, and diclofenac is used to relieve the stiffness and pain it causes.

Other Specific Conditions

In addition to arthritis, diclofenac is also indicated for other painful inflammatory conditions:

Menstrual Pain (Dysmenorrhea): Diclofenac can be used to treat the pain and cramping associated with painful menstrual periods.
Migraine Headaches: A specific oral solution formulation (diclofenac potassium) is used for the acute treatment of migraine attacks.

Important Safety Considerations and Side Effects

While effective, diclofenac sodium is not without risks, and patients should be aware of potential side effects and precautions before use. It carries a boxed warning from the FDA for serious cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks, particularly with long-term, high-dose use.

Common Side Effects

Common side effects associated with oral diclofenac tablets include:

Stomach upset, nausea, heartburn, diarrhea, or constipation
Headache or dizziness
Fluid retention (edema) leading to swelling in the feet or ankles
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Increased blood pressure

Serious Side Effects

Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience any signs of serious complications, including:

Cardiovascular Events: Chest pain, shortness of breath, sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, or slurred speech, indicating a potential heart attack or stroke. The risk is particularly high for those with pre-existing heart disease.
Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Black, tarry stools, vomiting that looks like coffee grounds, or persistent stomach pain.
Liver Problems: Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, loss of appetite, or pain in the upper right part of the stomach.
Kidney Problems: Change in the amount or color of urine, back pain, or painful urination.

Diclofenac Sodium vs. Ibuprofen

Diclofenac and ibuprofen are both common NSAIDs used to manage pain and inflammation. While they share similar mechanisms and uses, there are notable differences, particularly in potency and side effect risk.


Feature	Diclofenac Sodium (Oral)	Ibuprofen (Oral)
Potency	Generally considered more potent than ibuprofen.	Used for milder pain relief; prescription-strength available for more severe pain.
Prescription	Primarily prescription-based for tablets; topical gel is OTC.	Available both over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription.
Typical Use	Chronic conditions like arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, specific migraines, and dysmenorrhea.	General pain, fever, menstrual cramps, arthritis pain.
Onset of Action	Faster absorption with certain salt forms (potassium) for acute pain.	Faster absorption with liquid-filled capsules.
Side Effect Risk	Higher risk of serious cardiovascular and gastrointestinal events, especially at higher doses.	Lower risk of serious cardiovascular and gastrointestinal events compared to diclofenac.
Drug Interactions	Interacts with blood thinners, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, and other NSAIDs.	Interacts with similar drugs, but the overall risk of some severe side effects is lower.

Conclusion

Diclofenac sodium tablets are a powerful and effective NSAID for treating a range of inflammatory and painful conditions, from chronic arthritis to acute pain and migraines. By inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis, it alleviates swelling, stiffness, and pain. However, its potency comes with significant safety warnings, particularly concerning cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks, especially with high-dose or long-term use. It is crucial for patients to take the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary, as advised by a healthcare provider. Patients should be aware of the potential for serious side effects and discuss their medical history and other medications with their doctor to ensure safe use. Alternative treatments and lifestyle changes may also be recommended to help manage symptoms. For comprehensive information, resources like the FDA's Medication Guide are invaluable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Diclofenac sodium and potassium are different salt forms of the same drug. The key difference is absorption speed; diclofenac potassium is absorbed more quickly and is typically used for acute, short-term pain like migraines or menstrual cramps, while diclofenac sodium (especially delayed or extended-release) is suited for long-term conditions like arthritis.

No, diclofenac is typically used for mild-to-moderate pain and inflammation, particularly in specific conditions like arthritis, dysmenorrhea, and migraines. A healthcare provider should determine the appropriate use based on your specific condition.

Common side effects include stomach upset, nausea, heartburn, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, and swelling in the legs or ankles due to fluid retention.

No, you should not take diclofenac with other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Combining these medications significantly increases the risk of serious side effects, especially gastrointestinal bleeding and heart problems.

Long-term use of diclofenac, especially at high doses, increases the risk of serious side effects like heart attack, stroke, and stomach ulcers. Doctors recommend using the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential for long-term therapy.

You should avoid drinking alcohol, as it increases the risk of stomach bleeding. You should also avoid other NSAIDs and certain medications like blood thinners, ACE inhibitors, and diuretics without consulting your doctor.

Yes, NSAIDs including diclofenac can affect kidney function, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease, heart failure, or dehydration. Use with caution and monitor kidney function, as advised by a healthcare provider.