Painkillers are a common treatment for temporary pain relief or pain reduction. Diclofenac is an option to ease pain caused by infection. This medicine not only helps to reduce the pain, but also prevents the infection from spreading. In addition, it is effective in relieving pain and other symptoms surrounding the infection. Diclofenac is primarily prescribed by doctors for the treatment of severe menstrual pain, joint pain, headache and migraine. Diclofenac was introduced on the international market in 1974. It is sold under the brand names Cataflam, Voltaren, and as generic Diclofenac and Diclofenac Sodium. Most products require a prescription; only Voltaren K is also sold over the counter. Diclofenac is available in coated tablet, tablet, suppository and injection form.
Menstrual pain and inflammation of the joints are two common reasons for prescribing Diclofenac. It is also used for migraine headaches and muscle pain, and provides relief of cold and flu symptoms. In addition, Diclofenac is used in conditions and disorders where it is desirable to reduce pain and other symptoms to a minimum. It is commonly used to treat arthrosis, an inflammatory condition that affects some elderly people and causes pain in the joints.
The most common side effects are headache, dizziness and gastrointestinal problems. Other side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps and loss of appetite. However, not everyone gets these side effects and the level of discomfort differs from person to person. In rare cases, Diclofenac may cause skin rash, a change in liver function and retention of fluids in the arms and legs. For a full list of possible side effect, see the leaflet that comes with your medicine.