Olfen (Diclofenac Sodium)

Diclofenac sodium is an NSAID that acts on inflammatory pathways to reduce pain and swelling in several musculoskeletal conditions.

• Osteoarthritis: helps relieve joint pain and improves functional movement.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: reduces joint inflammation and stiffness.
• Acute musculoskeletal injury: eases pain and inflammation associated with sprains, strains and soft‑tissue trauma.
• Post‑operative pain: provides analgesia after minor surgical procedures.
• Ankylosing spondylitis: diminishes spinal pain and stiffness.

• 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 the inflammatory response and provides analgesic relief.

Adverse reactions to diclofenac sodium can range from mild to severe and should be monitored during therapy.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal discomfort: nausea, dyspepsia or abdominal pain.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness or light‑headedness.
• Skin rash or mild itching.
• Elevated liver enzymes detected in routine tests.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Peptic ulcer disease or gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Severe hepatic injury or jaundice.
• Renal impairment or acute kidney injury.
• Cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction or stroke.
• Severe skin reactions including Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.

When using Olfen, consider the following safety measures:

• Cardiovascular risk: assess patient history of heart disease before initiating therapy.
• Gastrointestinal risk: avoid use in patients with active ulcers or a history of GI bleeding.
• Renal function: monitor kidney parameters in patients with pre‑existing renal impairment.
• Hepatic function: periodic liver‑function testing is advisable.
• Drug interactions: review concomitant medications for potential NSAID interactions.
• Store at below 25°C: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Diclofenac sodium may interact with several drug classes, requiring careful management.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): increased risk of serious bleeding.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): heightened bleeding tendency.
• Lithium: potential for increased lithium levels and toxicity.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: may reduce renal perfusion and function.
• Diuretics: risk of electrolyte imbalance and renal impairment.
• Methotrexate: possible increase in methotrexate toxicity.