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NSAID

Diclofenac

Brand names: Voltarol, Dicloflex

Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain and inflammation.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It inhibits cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2), reducing prostaglandin synthesis.

Prescribing in practice

  • It carries a higher cardiovascular (thrombotic) risk than several other NSAIDs — avoid in established cardiovascular disease, heart failure and significant risk factors.
  • The usual NSAID gastrointestinal and renal cautions apply; use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time, with gastroprotection where appropriate.
  • It adds to bleeding risk with anticoagulants/antiplatelets and impairs renal handling of several drugs.

Monitoring

With longer use or in at-risk patients monitor renal function and blood pressure, and review gastrointestinal symptoms.

Counselling the patient

  • Take it with or after food.
  • Report indigestion, black stools or reduced urine output.
  • Avoid combining it with other NSAIDs.

Evidence & guidelines

Effective for inflammatory pain but used selectively because of its cardiovascular risk profile, and avoided in established cardiovascular disease (MHRA).

Reference: EMA NSAID Cardiovascular Safety Review 2013; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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