Praktické lekárnictvo 1/2017

Known and unknown facts about diclofenac

Pain is an enormous problem globally. Estimates suggest that 20 % of adults suffer from pain globally and 10 % are newly diagnosed with chronic pain each year. The pain prevalence is increasing with an ageing population and pain management is a global health priority. Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. It is used to treat mild to moderate pain, or signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. There are two form of oral diclofenac – diclofenac sodium and diclofenac potassium. Diclofenac has been available in several different topical formulations – gel, cream, ointment or patches. If we accepted indication and contraindication of diclofenac, this drug is effective in the pain treatment.

Keywords: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, drugs form, diclofenac