Diclofenac sodium 75 mg tablets are a commonly prescribed medication for relieving pain and inflammation in various conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. As a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), diclofenac works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause pain and inflammation in the body. In this article, we will discuss the uses, side effects, and precautions associated with diclofenac sodium 75 mg tablets.
Uses of Diclofenac Sodium 75 mg Tablet
Diclofenac sodium 75 mg tablets are primarily used to treat pain and inflammation associated with various conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis: a degenerative joint disease characterized by wear and tear of the joint cartilage
- Rheumatoid arthritis: an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and pain in the joints
- Ankylosing spondylitis: a type of arthritis that affects the spine and other joints
- Menstrual cramps: severe menstrual cramps that occur in women
- Other painful conditions: such as tendonitis, bursitis, and gout
The recommended dosage of diclofenac sodium 75 mg tablets varies depending on the condition being treated and the individual patient's needs. It is essential to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and to take the medication exactly as directed.
Mechanism of Action
Diclofenac sodium 75 mg tablets work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances that cause pain and inflammation in the body. Prostaglandins are produced by the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which exists in two isoforms: COX-1 and COX-2. Diclofenac selectively inhibits COX-2, which is responsible for producing prostaglandins that cause pain and inflammation.
Side Effects of Diclofenac Sodium 75 mg Tablet
Like all medications, diclofenac sodium 75 mg tablets can cause side effects, some of which can be serious. Common side effects include:
| Side Effect | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Nausea and vomiting | 10-20% |
| Abdominal pain and diarrhea | 5-15% |
| Headache and dizziness | 5-10% |
| Fatigue and drowsiness | 5-10% |
Less common but more serious side effects include:
- Gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers
- Cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke
- Allergic reactions, such as hives and difficulty breathing
- Liver and kidney damage
Precautions and Contraindications
Diclofenac sodium 75 mg tablets should be used with caution in patients with:
- History of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers
- Cardiovascular disease, such as heart failure or high blood pressure
- Liver or kidney disease
- Allergies to NSAIDs or other medications
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Diclofenac sodium 75 mg tablets are contraindicated in patients with:
- Active gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers
- Severe cardiovascular disease, such as heart failure or coronary artery disease
- Severe liver or kidney disease
- Known allergy to diclofenac or other NSAIDs
Key Points
- Diclofenac sodium 75 mg tablets are used to relieve pain and inflammation in various conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
- The medication works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which cause pain and inflammation in the body.
- Common side effects include nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea, headache and dizziness, and fatigue and drowsiness.
- Serious side effects include gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers, cardiovascular events, allergic reactions, and liver and kidney damage.
- The medication should be used with caution in patients with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers, cardiovascular disease, liver or kidney disease, allergies to NSAIDs or other medications, and pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Conclusion
Diclofenac sodium 75 mg tablets are an effective medication for relieving pain and inflammation in various conditions. However, like all medications, it can cause side effects, some of which can be serious. It is essential to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and to take the medication exactly as directed. If you experience any side effects or have concerns about your treatment, you should consult your healthcare provider immediately.
What is diclofenac sodium 75 mg tablet used for?
+Diclofenac sodium 75 mg tablets are used to relieve pain and inflammation in various conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.
What are the common side effects of diclofenac sodium 75 mg tablet?
+Common side effects of diclofenac sodium 75 mg tablets include nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea, headache and dizziness, and fatigue and drowsiness.
Can I take diclofenac sodium 75 mg tablet if I have a history of gastrointestinal bleeding?
+No, diclofenac sodium 75 mg tablets should be used with caution in patients with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers.