Voltral 50 mg (Diclofenac Sodium) Tab 20’s

Diclofenac Sodium is a noteworthy substance known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It possesses analgesic and antipyretic properties, making it useful in treating pain and reducing inflammation. Interestingly, Diclofenac Sodium influences the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX) and prostaglandin H synthase (PGHS), which essentially inhibits the synthesis of prostaglandins (PGs). Prostaglandins are chemicals that contribute to pain and inflammation. Consequently, by inhibiting their production, Diclofenac Sodium reduces inflammation and pain sensations, making it valuable in the treatment of various inflammatory conditions and pain. Furthermore, its action on COX leads to an increased production of thromboxane (TX) A2, which inhibits platelet aggregation and thus serves as a beneficial anticoagulant. It’s essential to highlight that Diclofenac Sodium is a prescription drug, and its usage should occur under medical supervision and in accordance with the prescribed dosage and duration given by a physician. It’s also vital to note that, like all NSAIDs, Diclofenac Sodium can lead to side effects and allergic reactions in some individuals. Hence, before using this medication, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional.

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID)

Unveiling its multifaceted uses and transformative applications as follows:

• Diclofenac sodium 50mg is a medicine used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
• It is effective in reducing pain and inflammation due to muscle strains and sprains, and in reducing menstrual pain.
• It works by blocking the effect of certain chemicals in the body that cause inflammation and pain.
• 50mg diclofenac sodium is classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

Tailoring Treatment for Optimal Health, Prescribed Medication Dosage is:

• Arthritis 50mg to 100mg daily in divided doses
• Osteoarthritis 50mg to 150mg daily in divided doses
• Rheumatoid arthritis 50mg to 150mg daily in divided doses
• Ankylosing spondylitis 50mg to 100mg daily in divided doses
• Acute pain 50mg to 100mg every 8 to 12 hours, not to exceed 150mg per day
• Primary dysmenorrhea 50mg to 100mg initially, followed by 25mg to 50mg every 6 to 8 hours if necessary

An overdose of diclofenac sodium can trigger a range of severe symptoms. Prompt medical attention is crucial in such cases. If you suspect an overdose, immediately contact emergency medical services.Symptoms of a diclofenac sodium overdose may include nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, an upset stomach, stomach pains, heartburn, and loss of appetite. Although rare, nerve damage and kidney failure are also possible.Overdose treatment involves inducing vomiting if timely, administering special drugs to bind diclofenac sodium in the bloodstream, and pumping the stomach if required. It also encompasses providing supportive care, like heart function monitoring, pain management, and addressing any complications.

If you happen to miss a dose of diclofenec sodium 50mg, you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember it, as long as it is not almost time for your next scheduled dose. If it is almost time for your next dose, it is recommended that you skip the missed dose and revert to your regular dosing schedule. It is imperative that you do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose. It is advised to follow the dosing instructions given by your physician or pharmacist carefully and not deviate from them unless advised to do so by a medical professional.

When taking Diclofenac Sodium 50mg, it’s essential to follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist carefully. This medication is typically taken orally, four times a day with food, to reduce the risk of an upset stomach. It’s important to swallow the tablet whole and not crush or chew it, as this can cause a sudden release of the drug, leading to increased side effects. To minimize the risk of stomach upset, it’s advisable to take this medication with food, milk, or an antacid.It’s important to note that you should avoid lying down for at least 10 minutes after taking this medication. Additionally, you should avoid taking antacids that contain magnesium or aluminum within two hours of taking diclofenac sodium. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible, but if it’s near the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose at your scheduled time. Some side effects may include mild heartburn, nausea, constipation, and dizziness. If these effects persist or worsen, it’s crucial to notify your healthcare professional promptly. It’s essential to use this medication precisely as prescribed to prevent more severe adverse reactions, including stroke, heart attack, and life-threatening skin conditions. If you have a history of allergic reactions to NSAIDs, stomach problems, or asthma, you should notify your doctor, as you may be at higher risk for severe diclofenac-related side effects. Remember to read the medication guide provided by the pharmacist each time you get a refill, and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

Discerning instances where this medication may not be appropriate:

• Allergy to NSAIDs

• Stomach or Gastrointestinal Issues

• Kidney Disorders

• Bleeding Disorders

Unraveling the side effects lurking behind this medications are as follows:

• Heart-related issues like heart attack, stroke, chest pain, or blood clots
• Gastrointestinal problems like heartburn, ulcers, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• Kidney problems like kidney failure or kidney stones
• Reversible eye problems involving the retina, which is called Diclofenac-associated acute intraocular inflammation
• Increased risk of persistent cough, shortness of breath, and persistent wheezing, especially in people with asthma
• Skin reactions including exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis
• Increased blood pressure and potassium levels in the blood

Here are the additional precautions and warnings for Diclofenac Sodium:

• As with other NSAIDs, allergic reactions, including anaphylactic or anaphylactoid reactions, can occur with Diclofenac Sodium, even without prior exposure to the drug. Such hypersensitivity reactions may progress to Kounis syndrome, a serious allergic reaction that can lead to myocardial infarction. Symptoms may include chest pain associated with an allergic reaction to Diclofenac Sodium.
• To minimize undesirable effects, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms (see section 4.2 and GI and cardiovascular risks).
• Avoid concomitant use of Diclofenac Sodium with other systemic NSAIDs, including cyclooxygenase-2 selective inhibitors, due to the lack of evidence for synergistic benefits and the potential for additive undesirable effects.
• Caution is advised for the elderly; it is recommended to use the lowest effective dose in frail elderly patients or those with low body weight.
• Like other NSAIDs, Diclofenac Sodium may mask signs and symptoms of infection due to its pharmacodynamic properties.
• Patients with rare hereditary problems such as galactose intolerance, total lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not use this medication.
• This medication contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per tablet, making it essentially sodium-free.
• Diclofenac Sodium may impair female fertility and is not recommended for women attempting to conceive. In women experiencing difficulties conceiving or undergoing infertility investigations, withdrawal of Diclofenac Sodium should be considered.

Drug interactions with diclofenac sodium include:

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) (may increase the risk of bleeding- monitor INR closely)
• Other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) (may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulceration)
• Antihypertensives (e.g., ACE inhibitors, diuretics) (may reduce the effectiveness of blood pressure-lowering medications)
• Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) (may increase the risk of gastrointestinal adverse effects)
• Lithium (may increase lithium levels and risk of toxicity- monitor serum levels)
• Methotrexate (may increase the toxicity of methotrexate- monitor for adverse effects)
• CYP2C9 inhibitors (e.g., fluconazole) (may increase diclofenac levels and risk of side effects)
• Cyclosporine (may increase the risk of renal toxicity)
• Antidiabetic agents (e.g., metformin) (no significant interaction but monitor for any changes in blood glucose)

Diclofenac sodium is a medicine that should be stored in a safe and secure location, away from children and pets, as it is harmful if ingested. The medicine should be stored at room temperature, ideally between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). To ensure the medicine remains safe and effective, it should be kept in a cool, dry place and away from direct light. Furthermore, it is advised to store diclofenac sodium in its original container and to keep it tightly closed at all times. If you have any specific questions or concerns regarding the storage of this medication, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional, as they can provide you with advice tailored to your circumstances.

When taking Diclofenac Sodium 50mg, it is crucial to undergo certain lab tests to ensure your safety and adjust the dosage if required. These tests are essential to monitor your health and tackle any potential risks associated with the medication. Firstly, liver function tests are vital to safeguard against potential liver damage, whilst kidney function tests are essential to monitor any impact on kidney function. Both tests are crucial in assessing enzyme levels in the blood and measuring blood levels of creatinine and blood urea nitrogen, respectively. These tests enable doctors to ensure the medication remains compatible with your organ’s well-being. Secondly, regular blood pressure checks are incorporated into your monitoring plan, which help identify trends in hypertension, enabling timely intervention and lifestyle adjustments. Thirdly, long-term use of Diclofenac Sodium may decrease red blood cell count, and so routine assessments of hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are required to ensure these parameters remain within the normal range, alerting healthcare providers to intervene and prevent anemia. It is imperative to emphasise that lab testing frequency and intervals should be determined by your healthcare provider, who will tailor the monitoring plan to your specific needs. Timely and regular lab tests ensure a safe and effective medicinal regimen, providing the necessary insights to adjust dosage and mitigate potential adverse effects.