Full instructions, dosage information and potential known side effects are all available in the leaflet that comes with the prescription product. If you require any advice or assistance with placing your order, please don’t hesitate to contact our team.
How do I take/use this medicine?
Take Diclofenac exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more than instructed by your doctor.
Always take Diclofenac together with food or immediately after a meal. Do not take it on an empty stomach.
Your doctor may also prescribe some antacid tablets to be taken with Diclofenac. If you have been given an antacid, chew the antacid tablet before swallowing and take it at the same time as Diclofenac.
If you have been given a tablet with a special coating (sometimes labelled as "EC", "SR", "MR" or "XL"), swallow it whole. Do not chew or crush tablets with a special coating.
If you have been given a soluble tablet, dissolve in water and drink.
What should I take note of while using/taking this medicine?
Diclofenac may not be suitable for you if you have kidney, liver or heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure or if you have ever had a heart attack or a stroke. Alert your doctor if you have any of these conditions.
If you are going for an operation, including minor operations and dental work, inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking Diclofenac.
When should I not use this medicine?
Do not take Diclofenac if you:
- are pregnant or breastfeeding
- have a history of allergic reactions (swollen eyes or mouth, difficulty breathing, rashes) to similar painkillers such as aspirin, mefenamic acid, ibuprofen, indomethacin, ketoprofen, meloxicam, naproxen or piroxicam
- have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding from the stomach
- have inflammation of the bowels (intestines)
- have asthma
- have problems with blood clotting
Are there any restrictions on the type of food I can take?
Avoid alcohol.
Why do I need this medicine?
Diclofenac helps relieve pain and inflammation.
What side effects could I experience?
Diclofenac is likely to cause stomach discomfort such as nausea and stomach pain. Be sure to take it with food and the antacids, if prescribed.
If you develop swelling of the eyes or mouth, rashes or have difficulty breathing, you may be allergic to Diclofenac. Stop the medicine and see the doctor quickly if this happens.
Alert your doctor if any of the following symptoms are severe or refuse to go away:
- stomach pain
- diarrhoea
- unusual tiredness
- dizziness
Some side effects may be serious and need immediate attention. These are usually more of a concern with long-term use and are usually not a problem with short-term or occasional use. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of these side effects:
- chest pain
- breathlessness
- black and sticky bowel movements
How should I store this medicine?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Can I take/use this with other medicines?
Do not take Diclofenac with the following medicines. Alert your doctor if you are taking any of these medicines.
- blood-thinning medicines such as aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin, dipyridamole, heparin
- steroids such as dexamethasone, prednisolone
- TB medicine such as rifampicin
- heart or blood pressure medicines such as furosemide (frusemide) and related medicines
- other medicines such as ciclosporin, methotrexate, lithium
Always inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
