Miclofen

What It Is Used For

Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It relieves pain and swelling in arthritis, back pain, sprains and strains, period pain, dental pain, gout attacks and pain after minor surgery.

How to Take It

Adults usually take 75 mg to 150 mg a day, split into 2 or 3 doses, with or after food. Slow-release (SR) tablets are taken once or twice a day and must be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed. Do not take more than 150 mg a day. Use the lowest dose for the shortest time that controls your symptoms. Gel forms are rubbed gently on the painful area, not on broken skin.

Who Should Not Take It

Do not take it if you are allergic to diclofenac, aspirin or other NSAIDs, have or have had a stomach ulcer or bleeding, have heart failure, heart disease, a past heart attack or stroke, poor circulation in the legs, severe kidney or liver disease, or are in the last 3 months of pregnancy.

Side Effects

Common: stomach pain, indigestion, nausea, diarrhoea, headache and dizziness. Get medical help straight away if you have black or bloody stools, vomit blood, chest pain, sudden weakness on one side, shortness of breath, yellow skin or eyes, or a serious skin rash.

Precautions

Diclofenac raises the risk of heart attack and stroke more than some other painkillers, especially at higher doses or with long use. Talk to your doctor first if you are over 65, have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoke, have asthma or kidney problems.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Avoid in pregnancy unless your doctor advises it, and do not use it from 20 weeks onwards without a doctor's advice. Ask your doctor before using it while breastfeeding.

Interactions

Do not take it with other NSAIDs or regular aspirin. Tell your doctor if you take blood thinners, steroids, antidepressants (SSRIs), blood pressure medicines, water tablets, lithium, methotrexate or ciclosporin.

Storage

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