Your doctor has prescribed diclofenac for you. But what is this medication used for and how to use it correctly? First thing to know: diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which acts against pain, fever, inflammation and which thins the blood. As such, it can be prescribed in cases of osteoarthritis, back pain (low back pain, sciatica, cruralgia), inflammatory rheumatism (rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis), tendonitis or even sprains. It is available only by prescription.
Diclofenac: watch out for contraindications
Several contraindications to taking diclofenac exist: it should not be prescribed to people who suffer from heart, liver or kidney failure, to people who have a history of myocardial infarction or cerebrovascular accident (CVA). ), nor to those with an ulcer or a history of stomach ulcer.
Side effects too
Furthermore, this medication carries the risk of side effects: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, bloating, ulcer, bleeding from the digestive tract, allergic reaction, skin rashes, itching, high blood pressure, water retention, aches and pains. headache, drowsiness, insomnia, tremors or even vision problems. If it comes in tablet form, it should be swallowed with a glass of water between meals to limit unwanted digestive effects.
Increased risk of cardiovascular disorders
According to the National Medicines Agency (ANSM), diclofenac exposes you to an increased risk of cardiovascular disorders such as arterial thromboses, myocardial infarction or stroke, even at low doses and for short periods of use. This is why diclofenac should not be used for self-medication and should, if prescribed, be chosen as second line, after having tried other anti-inflammatories.
Finally, be aware that NSAIDs are not harmless medications and that they are only prescribed in specific situations: do not recommend diclofenac to a loved one, even if they seem to suffer from the same pathology as you, and do not reuse it. not without medical advice.
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