Olfen (Diclofenac Sodium)

Olfen (diclofenac) is an NSAID that acts on inflammatory pathways to manage pain and swelling.

• Rheumatoid arthritis: reduces joint pain, swelling and stiffness.
• Osteoarthritis: alleviates chronic joint discomfort and improves mobility.
• Ankylosing spondylitis: diminishes spinal inflammation and pain.
• Acute musculoskeletal pain: provides rapid relief of injury‑related pain.
• Post‑operative pain: helps control pain after surgical procedures.

• Diclofenac sodium inhibits cyclo‑oxygenase (COX‑1 and COX‑2) enzymes, decreasing the synthesis of prostaglandins that mediate inflammation, pain, and fever. By reducing prostaglandin levels at sites of tissue injury, it limits vascular permeability, leukocyte infiltration, and nociceptor sensitisation, resulting in analgesic and anti‑inflammatory effects.

Adverse reactions to Olfen can vary from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal upset: nausea, dyspepsia, abdominal pain.
• Headache or dizziness.
• Skin rash or pruritus.
• Elevated liver enzymes.
• Fluid retention or mild edema.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation.
• Cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or stroke.
• Severe liver injury or hepatitis.
• Acute renal failure or worsening of chronic kidney disease.
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, or other severe skin reactions.
• Anaphylactic or severe hypersensitivity reactions.

Before initiating Olfen, clinicians should evaluate individual risk factors and monitor therapy.

• Gastro‑intestinal risk: assess history of ulcers or bleeding before use.
• Cardiovascular risk: avoid in patients with recent myocardial infarction or uncontrolled hypertension.
• Renal function: monitor creatinine in patients with pre‑existing kidney disease.
• Hepatic function: check liver enzymes periodically, especially with prolonged therapy.
• Pregnancy: contraindicated in the third trimester; use only if benefits outweigh risks.
• Hypersensitivity: discontinue if signs of severe allergic reaction appear.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Olfen may interact with several medicines, altering efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased bleeding risk.
• Other NSAIDs or aspirin: heightened gastrointestinal toxicity.
• Lithium: elevated lithium serum levels.
• Methotrexate: reduced clearance, risk of toxicity.
• Cyclosporine: enhanced nephrotoxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely):\n- ACE inhibitors or ARBs: possible reduction in renal function.

• Diuretics: risk of electrolyte imbalance and renal impairment.
• SSRIs or SNRIs: additive bleeding risk.
• Beta‑blockers: may mask tachycardia from blood loss.
• Corticosteroids: increased gastrointestinal ulceration risk.