Alofen

Indications

Aceclofenac is used to relieve pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis (a type of arthritis of the spine). It is also used for other painful conditions such as back pain, muscle and joint injuries, and dental pain.

How It Works

It is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It blocks the body's production of prostaglandins, chemicals that cause pain, swelling and fever.

Dosage and Administration

Adults: usually 100 mg twice a day, morning and evening. Do not take more than 200 mg a day. Swallow the tablet whole with water, with or after food. Use the lowest dose for the shortest time that controls your symptoms. People with liver problems may need a lower dose. Not recommended for children.

Interactions

Do not take with other NSAIDs, including Aspirin at pain-relief doses. The risk of stomach bleeding rises with Warfarin and other blood thinners, corticosteroids and antidepressants such as Fluoxetine and Sertraline. It can reduce the effect of blood pressure medicines and diuretics (water tablets) and harm the kidneys when combined with them, especially in older people. It can raise the levels of Lithium, Digoxin and Methotrexate. Use with Ciclosporin or Tacrolimus may harm the kidneys.

Contraindications

• Allergy to Aceclofenac, Diclofenac or any ingredient.
• Asthma, hives or runny nose triggered by Aspirin or other NSAIDs.
• Active stomach ulcer or bleeding, or repeated ulcers in the past.
• Heart failure, heart disease, past stroke or poor circulation in the legs.
• Severe kidney or liver disease.
• The last 3 months of pregnancy.

Side Effects

Common: indigestion, stomach pain, nausea, diarrhoea and dizziness. Less common: wind, constipation, headache, rash and itching.

Stop taking it and get urgent medical help if you have:

• Black or bloody stools, or vomiting blood or dark material.
• Chest pain, or sudden weakness or numbness of one side of the body.
• Swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing or wheezing.
• A severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
• Yellow skin or eyes, or passing much less urine.

Pregnancy and Lactation

Avoid during pregnancy unless a doctor advises it, and do not take it at all in the last 3 months, as it can harm the baby's heart and kidneys. It is not recommended while breastfeeding; ask your doctor about a safer painkiller.

Precautions and Warnings

Use with care in older people and in people with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, asthma, or kidney or liver problems. Long-term use can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. It can cause dizziness, so take care when driving. Tell your doctor you take it before any surgery.

Overdose

Too much can cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness and headache, and rarely stomach bleeding, kidney damage or fits. Seek medical help.

Therapeutic Class

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.