Clofenac 50 mg

Description

Indications
Clofenac is recommended for the treatment of various conditions, including:

• Rheumatology: Effective in treating inflammatory and degenerative forms of rheumatism such as chronic polyarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis, spondyloarthropathies, acute gout, and peri-articular rheumatic disorders.

• Surgery and Traumatology: Used for sprains, bruises, dislocations, fractures, soft tissue injuries, and post-surgical recovery.

• Obstetrics and Gynecology: For the management of primary dysmenorrhea, episiotomy recovery, adnexitis, endometritis, parametritis, salpingitis, and mastitis.

• Otorhinolaryngology: Administered pre-operatively to prevent pain, inflammation, and swelling.

• Dentistry: For post-operative and post-traumatic management of pain, swelling, and inflammation.

• Other Uses: For the prevention of pain, and management of inflammation and swelling in patients undergoing urogenital tract surgeries, as well as those experiencing renal and biliary colic.

Always take this medication according to the advice of a registered healthcare professional.

Pharmacology
Clofenac Sodium is a potent non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that demonstrates powerful anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-rheumatic properties. It also has a mild uricosuric effect.
The mechanism of action involves inhibition of prostaglandin biosynthesis, which plays a critical role in pain, inflammation, and fever. Diclofenac is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, achieving peak plasma concentrations within approximately two hours post-ingestion. It is highly bound to plasma proteins (99.7%) and is metabolized in the liver.

Dosage & Administration

• Diclofenac FC Tablet:

  • Adults: 75-150 mg per day in 2-3 divided doses, preferably after meals. Reduce dose for long-term use.

• Diclofenac SR Tablet:

  • Adults: 1 tablet daily with liquid, preferably during meals. If needed, the daily dose can be increased to 150 mg with additional conventional tablets.
  • Children: 1-3 mg of Diclofenac per kg body weight daily, divided into doses.

• Diclofenac Dispersible Tablet:

  • Adults: 2-3 tablets daily, with a maximum daily dose of 150 mg. For mild conditions, 2 tablets per day may suffice. Take before meals.
  • Children: Not generally recommended for children except in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, with a dosage of 1-3 mg/kg body weight.

• Diclofenac TR Capsule:

  • Adults: 1 capsule daily, preferably after meals.

• Diclofenac Suppository:

  • Adults: Insert 50 mg suppository 2-3 times daily, with a maximum dose of 150 mg per day.

• Diclofenac Injection:

  • Adults: Typically, 1 ampoule daily. In severe cases, the dosage may increase to 2 ampoules daily.

• Diclofenac Gel:

  • For external use only. Apply 2-4 grams of Diclofenac gel to the affected area 3-4 times daily. Rub in lightly and may be used in combination with other forms of Diclofenac.

Always use this medication as per your healthcare provider’s instructions.

Drug Interactions

• Lithium & Digoxin: Clofenac may increase plasma levels of lithium and digoxin.
• Anticoagulants: Caution is advised when using Clofenac with anticoagulants due to an increased risk of bleeding.
• Cyclosporin: Concomitant use with Cyclosporin may lead to nephrotoxicity.
• Methotrexate: Serious toxicity may occur if used within 24 hours of NSAIDs.
• Quinolones: There may be an increased risk of convulsions with concomitant use of quinolone antibiotics and NSAIDs.
• Other NSAIDs and Steroids: Co-administration with other NSAIDs or steroids may heighten the risk of side effects.

Contraindications
Clofenac should not be used in individuals who are allergic to any of its ingredients or those with hypersensitivity to NSAIDs. It is contraindicated in patients with peptic ulcers or those prone to asthma, rhinitis, or urticaria triggered by aspirin or other NSAIDs. Clofenac gel should not be applied under occlusive dressings.

Side Effects
Generally, Clofenac is well tolerated. However, mild and transient side effects may occur, including:

• Epigastric discomfort
• Nausea and diarrhea
• Dizziness and headache
• Peripheral edema
• Skin reactions like rash or eczema

Clofenac Gel may cause local skin irritation or redness.

Pregnancy & Lactation
Clofenac should only be used during pregnancy when absolutely necessary, with the lowest effective dose recommended. It is not advised during the first trimester. There is a minimal amount of Clofenac detected in breast milk, but no significant adverse effects on infants are expected.

Precautions & Warnings

• Use with caution in patients with a history of peptic ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Elderly patients should be closely monitored during treatment.
• Avoid contact with eyes or mucous membranes after using Clofenac gel. Always wash hands thoroughly after application.

Therapeutic Class

• Drugs for Osteoarthritis
• Drugs for Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Storage Conditions
Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light. Keep below 30°C and out of reach of children.

Always follow the advice of a registered healthcare professional when using Clofenac.