Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) primarily used to reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain. It is commonly prescribed for conditions involving joints, muscles, and bones such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and gout. It is also used to treat acute pain from injuries, postoperative pain, menstrual cramps, dental pain, muscle pain, and migraines (acute attacks)
. Diclofenac works by inhibiting enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) involved in the production of prostaglandins, substances that cause inflammation and pain in the body
. It is available in various forms including oral tablets, capsules, topical gels, suppositories, and eye drops. The eye drop form is used to manage postoperative eye inflammation and pain
. In summary, diclofenac is used for:
- Pain and inflammation related to arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis)
- Acute musculoskeletal injuries and postoperative pain
- Menstrual cramps
- Migraines (acute treatment)
- Dental pain and muscle pain
- Eye inflammation after surgery (ophthalmic use)
