Dicloftil (Diclofenac Sodium)

Dicloftil is indicated for several ocular conditions where inflammation or pain is present.

• Inflammation of the anterior segment of the eye, such as iritis or uveitis, where reduction of prostaglandin‑mediated swelling is desired.
• Post‑operative ocular inflammation after cataract extraction, intra‑ocular lens implantation, or other intra‑ocular procedures to help control swelling and discomfort.
• Mild to moderate eye pain that accompanies inflammatory conditions, providing analgesic relief while the underlying inflammation resolves.
• Conjunctival hyperemia and associated redness that result from inflammatory processes, helping to restore normal ocular appearance.
• Adjunctive treatment for allergic conjunctivitis when inflammatory signs predominate, complementing antihistamine therapy.
• Prevention of excessive inflammatory response in patients receiving topical steroids, allowing a balanced anti‑inflammatory regimen.

The ocular formulation of diclofenac sodium may be associated with a range of local and systemic effects, most of which are mild and transient.

Common

• Transient eye irritation or burning sensation upon instillation.
• Temporary blurred vision that resolves within minutes.
• Mild conjunctival redness or tearing.
• Slight headache or mild systemic discomfort.
• Mild photophobia that improves with continued use.
• Temporary sensation of a foreign body in the eye.

Serious

• Persistent corneal epithelial defect or ulceration.
• Severe allergic reaction manifesting as eyelid swelling, rash, or angioedema.
• Significant intra‑ocular pressure increase.
• Development of anterior uveitis or worsening of existing intra‑ocular inflammation.
• Systemic adverse events such as gastrointestinal bleeding or renal impairment, especially in patients with pre‑existing risk factors.

When prescribing or dispensing Dicloftil, clinicians should consider several precautionary measures to ensure safe use in the ocular setting.

• Assess for known hypersensitivity to diclofenac, other NSAIDs, or any component of the eye‑drop formulation before initiation.
• Use with caution in patients with a history of corneal disease, dry eye, or compromised ocular surface integrity.
• Avoid concurrent use of multiple topical NSAIDs unless specifically directed, to reduce the risk of additive toxicity.
• Monitor intra‑ocular pressure in individuals receiving long‑term therapy, particularly if they have glaucoma.
• Evaluate renal or hepatic impairment in systemic NSAID users, as systemic absorption may be clinically relevant.
• Counsel pregnant or breastfeeding women that safety data are limited and the product should be used only if clearly indicated.

Dicloftil may interact with other ophthalmic or systemic medications; awareness of potential interactions helps to minimize adverse outcomes.

Avoid

• Concomitant use of other topical NSAID eye drops, which can increase the risk of corneal toxicity.
• Simultaneous administration of topical corticosteroids without ophthalmologist supervision, due to possible antagonistic effects on wound healing.

Use with caution

• Systemic NSAIDs or anticoagulants, as additive systemic exposure may raise bleeding risk.
• Beta‑blocker eye drops in glaucoma patients, since diclofenac may affect intra‑ocular pressure control.
• Anticholinergic agents that can exacerbate dry eye symptoms when combined with diclofenac eye drops.
• Contact lens wearers should be evaluated, as diclofenac may affect lens tolerance and increase irritation.