What is Diclofenac Tablets ?
Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is commonly used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and alleviate fever. It belongs to a class of medications known as NSAIDs, which work by inhibiting the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause inflammation.
Diclofenac is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, topical gels, and solutions for injection. The tablets are taken orally and can come in different strengths, depending on the specific formulation and brand.
Diclofenac Tablets Uses
- Pain Relief: Diclofenac is often used to relieve pain caused by various conditions, including musculoskeletal pain (such as arthritis, sprains, strains), dental pain, menstrual cramps, and headaches.
- Arthritis: It is frequently prescribed for various forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Diclofenac helps reduce joint pain, stiffness, and swelling associated with these conditions.
- Postoperative Pain: It may be used to manage pain after surgical procedures.
- Gout: Diclofenac can help alleviate the pain and inflammation associated with gout attacks.
- Migraine: In some cases, diclofenac may be used to alleviate the pain and discomfort of migraine headaches.
- Dysmenorrhea: It can be used to relieve pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramps.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Diclofenac can be used to manage pain and inflammation resulting from injuries like sprains or strains.
Diclofenac Tablets – Mechanism of Action and Pharmacology
- Inhibition of Cyclooxygenase (COX) Enzymes: Diclofenac works by inhibiting the activity of the cyclooxygenase enzymes, specifically COX-1 and COX-2. These enzymes play a crucial role in the production of prostaglandins, which are lipid compounds involved in the inflammatory response. COX-1 is constitutively expressed in various tissues and is involved in maintaining normal physiological functions, including protecting the lining of the stomach and promoting platelet aggregation. COX-2, on the other hand, is induced during inflammation and is primarily responsible for generating prostaglandins associated with pain and inflammation.
- Reduction of Prostaglandin Synthesis: By inhibiting COX enzymes, diclofenac decreases the formation of prostaglandins, which are lipid compounds that mediate pain, fever, and inflammation. This leads to a reduction in pain perception and inflammation at the site of injury or inflammation.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Diclofenac’s primary action as an NSAID is its anti-inflammatory effect. By reducing the production of prostaglandins, it mitigates the inflammatory response, which manifests as redness, swelling, heat, and pain in the affected area.
- Analgesic (Pain-Relieving) Effects: Diclofenac’s inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis results in decreased pain perception. This helps to alleviate pain associated with various conditions, such as musculoskeletal disorders, post-operative pain, and other painful conditions.
Diclofenac Tablets – Composition and Active Ingredients
- Fillers: These are inert substances that help in the formation of the tablet and may include materials like lactose, microcrystalline cellulose, or starch.
- Binders: Binders are used to hold the tablet together and can include substances like povidone (polyvinylpyrrolidone) or starch.
- Disintegrants: These substances help the tablet break apart in the digestive tract, allowing for the release of the active ingredient. Common disintegrants include crospovidone or sodium starch glycolate.
- Glidants: Glidants improve the flow properties of the powders during the tablet manufacturing process. Examples include colloidal silicon dioxide.
- Lubricants: Lubricants are used to prevent sticking of the tablet to the equipment during manufacturing. Common lubricants include magnesium stearate or stearic acid.
Diclofenac Tablets – Side-effects
- Upset stomach
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain or cramps
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Gastric ulcers
