Clofenac Composition, Dose, Use, Side Effect

Clofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It comes in two different strengths. It is made by Hovid Bhd., Malaysia.

Clofenac 50

Composition Of Clofenac

Clofenac 25 Tablet: Diclofenac sodium 25 mg per tablet

Clofenac 50 Tablet: Diclofenac sodium 50 mg per tablet

Actions And Pharmacology

Diclofenac sodium has analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties. It is an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthetase (cyclo-oxygenase).

Indications Of Clofenac

Diclofenac sodium is used for relief of pain and inflammation in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, acute gout and following some surgical procedures.

Contraindications

Diclofenac sodium was considered unsafe in patients with acute porphyria because it has been shown to be porphyrinogenic in animals or in vitro systems.

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• Avoid giving to patients who are sensitive to aspirin.

• Use in pregnant women should be avoided.

Warning

Risk Of Gastrointestinal Ulceration, Bleeding And Perforation With NSAID

Serious Gl toxicity such as bleeding, ulceration and perforation can occur at any time, with or without warning symptoms, in patients treated with NSAID therapy. Although minor upper GI problems (e.g., dyspepsia) are common, usually developing early in therapy, prescribers should remain alert for ulceration and bleeding in patients treated with NSAIDs even in the absence of previous GI tract symptoms.

Studies to date have not identified any subset of patients not at risk of developing peptic ulceration and bleeding. Patients with prior history of serious adverse events and other risk factors associated with peptic ulcer disease (e.g. alcoholism, smoking, corticosteroid therapy) are at increased risk. Elderly or debilitated patients seem to tolerate ulceration or bleeding less than other individuals and account for most spontaneous reports for fatal GI events.

Precautions

Diclofenac should be given with care to patients with asthma or bronchospasm, bleeding disorders, cardiovascular disease, peptic ulceration, renal failure and in those who are receiving coumarin anticoagulants.

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Main Side/adverse Effects Of Clofenac

Bleeding has been reported. Other side effects include headache, dizziness, nervousness, skin rash, pruritus, tinnitus, oedema. The most common side effects occurring with diclofenac sodium are gastrointestinal disturbances. Peptic ulceration and intestinal depression, drowsiness, insomnia, blurred vision and other ocular reactions.

Drug Interactions

Avoid concomitant use with triamterene.

Overdosage

Symptoms: Headache, nausea, gastrointestinal bleeding

Treatment: Emesis or gastric lavage, if appropriate

Symptomatic and supportive measures

Dosage And Administration Of Clofenac

Adult: Oral, 75 to 150 mg daily in divided doses

Children: For juvenile chronic arthritis- Oral, 1 to 3 mg per kg body weight in daily divided doses.