What is diclofenac used for?
Michael King
Updated on April 08, 2026
What is diclofenac used for?
Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat mild-to-moderate pain, and helps to relieve symptoms of arthritis (eg, osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis), such as inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain.
Why diclofenac is banned?
The government had banned the veterinary use of diclofenac in 2006 after it was found that the once-thriving vulture population in the country was near extinction after eating the carcasses of animals that were illegally treated with human formulations of the drug.
Is diclofenac a muscle relaxer?
Diclofenac is used to relieve pain and swelling (inflammation) from various mild to moderate painful conditions. It is used to treat muscle aches, backaches, dental pain, menstrual cramps, and sports injuries.
Is diclofenac harmful to kidneys?
Diclofenac and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID’s) cause the kidney to lose the capacity to make these protective hormones and over time, can result in progressive kidney damage. This damage may take years in some people but in others can occur after a single dose.
What are the side effects with diclofenac?
Common side effects
- feeling sick (nausea)
- being sick (vomiting) or diarrhoea.
- feeling dizzy or vertigo.
- headaches.
- stomach ache, wind or loss of appetite.
- mild rash.
Does diclofenac affect sleep?
Diclofenac potassium also decreased the number of sleep stage changes per hour of sleep, indicating a less fragmentary sleep.
What are the risks of taking diclofenac?
Common side effects may include:
- indigestion, gas, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain;
- diarrhea, constipation;
- headache, dizziness, drowsiness;
- abnormal lab tests;
- itching, sweating;
- stuffy nose;
- increased blood pressure; or.
- swelling or pain in your arms or legs.
Can I drink coffee after taking diclofenac?
This medication may irritate the stomach, and should be taken with food. It is best to avoid coffee, spicy food or alcohol.