Diclofenac sodium — what it does and how to use it safely

Diclofenac sodium is an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) used to ease pain and reduce inflammation. You’ll see it as pills, extended‑release tablets, topical gels/patches, and injections. People take it for arthritis, sprains, menstrual cramps, and short‑term pain after surgery.

How it works is simple: diclofenac blocks enzymes that make inflammatory chemicals in your body. That lowers swelling and pain, but it can also affect the stomach lining, kidneys, and heart if used incorrectly.

Common doses and forms

Oral immediate‑release: often 50 mg two to three times a day. Extended‑release tablets: 75 mg once or 100 mg once daily depending on the product. Topical gel: usually 1% or 2% applied to the painful area up to four times daily. Injections and suppositories exist for short hospital use. Always follow the label or your prescriber — these are typical ranges, not a substitute for advice.

Note on salts: diclofenac comes as sodium and potassium salts. Potassium versions are absorbed faster (for quick pain relief). Sodium is common in pills, injections, and some topical forms. The active drug is diclofenac either way; the salt just changes how fast it gets into your system.

Side effects and warnings

Common side effects: stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, headache, and local irritation with gels. Serious risks include stomach bleeding or ulcers, higher risk of heart attack or stroke (especially with long‑term or high‑dose use), kidney damage, and allergic reactions. Avoid diclofenac if you’ve recently had heart bypass surgery.

Pregnancy: don’t use diclofenac in the third trimester — it can cause serious issues for the baby. Talk to your doctor if you’re pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.

Watch interactions: diclofenac can raise bleeding risk with aspirin, warfarin, or other blood thinners. It can reduce the kidney benefits of ACE inhibitors or diuretics and may interact with SSRIs to increase bleeding. Don’t combine it with other NSAIDs like ibuprofen for long periods — that raises side effect risks without extra benefit.

Practical safety tips: take the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed, take pills with food to lower stomach upset, avoid alcohol while using it, and check kidney function if you’re on long courses. If you get black stools, severe stomach pain, sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or swelling, seek medical care right away.

Alternatives: if diclofenac isn’t right for you, commonly used alternatives include ibuprofen or naproxen for general pain, or acetaminophen for pain without anti‑inflammatory effect. Your doctor can recommend the best switch based on your health.

Buying and storing: only buy from licensed pharmacies. Topical products should be stored at room temperature and kept away from children. Dispose of unused pills safely — many pharmacies offer take‑back programs.

If you’re unsure whether diclofenac sodium is safe for you, check with your healthcare provider. A quick chat about your heart, stomach, kidney history, and other medicines can prevent problems and keep pain relief working as it should.