Kafenac (Aceclofenac)

Aceclofenac acts locally on inflamed tissues, providing analgesic and anti‑inflammatory effects for several conditions.

• Localized musculoskeletal pain: reduces pain and swelling in muscles, tendons and joints when applied to the affected area.
• Inflammatory skin conditions: diminishes inflammation in superficial tissues such as bursitis or tendonitis.
• Post‑traumatic soft‑tissue injury: helps alleviate discomfort and edema after minor injuries.

• Aceclofenac reversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase‑1 and cyclooxygenase‑2 enzymes in peripheral tissues, decreasing the synthesis of prostaglandins that mediate inflammation, pain and fever. By limiting prostaglandin production at the site of application, it provides localized anti‑inflammatory and analgesic effects without significant systemic exposure.

Topical aceclofenac may cause skin‑related adverse reactions, ranging from mild irritation to rare severe events.

Common Side Effects

• Skin irritation: redness or discomfort at the application site.
• Itching: mild pruritus localized to the treated area.
• Burning sensation: transient warmth or stinging after application.
• Dryness: mild desiccation of the skin.
• Erythema: superficial redness.
• Contact dermatitis: mild allergic skin response.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe allergic dermatitis: extensive rash or swelling requiring medical attention.
• Systemic NSAID effects: rare gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding.
• Renal impairment: decreased kidney function in susceptible individuals.
• Hepatic dysfunction: abnormal liver enzyme elevations.
• Anaphylaxis: life‑threatening hypersensitivity reaction.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: rare severe skin disorder.

When using topical aceclofenac, consider the following safety measures.

• Assess renal function: avoid use in patients with severe renal impairment.
• Avoid in known NSAID hypersensitivity: discontinue if allergic reactions occur.
• Use cautiously in cardiovascular disease: monitor for edema or blood pressure changes.
• Do not apply to broken, infected or ulcerated skin: may increase systemic absorption.
• Limit exposure to large surface areas: follow prescriber guidance.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Topical aceclofenac can interact with systemic medications; awareness of major and moderate interactions helps minimize risk.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Concurrent oral NSAIDs: increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Anticoagulants (warfarin, DOACs): heightened bleeding tendency.
• Selective COX‑2 inhibitors: additive toxicity and renal strain.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Corticosteroids: potential for skin ulceration.
• Diuretics: possible impact on renal function.
• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: may affect renal perfusion when combined with NSAIDs.