What Is Diclofenac and What Is It Used For?

Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and restore mobility when injury or flare-ups make movement difficult. Doctors often prescribe it for joint pain, arthritis, back discomfort, or muscle aches — especially when swelling and stiffness interfere with daily activities.

Unlike simple painkillers that mask symptoms, diclofenac targets the enzymes driving inflammation at the source. For many patients, this means less morning stiffness, fewer flare-ups, and an easier time staying active throughout the day.

Diclofenac can be used short-term — after sprains, dental work, or minor surgeries — or long-term for chronic conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Its flexibility comes from multiple forms (tablets, gels, injections), allowing treatment to match the type and location of pain more precisely.

If you’d like to hear a licensed U.S. pharmacist explain how diclofenac works, which forms are available, and what to know before using it — this short video gives a clear, practical overview:

This is not a substitute for medical advice — but it may help clarify the role of diclofenac in real-world treatment and make your next conversation with your provider feel more grounded.

If discomfort is limiting your movement, sleep, or quality of life, diclofenac may offer a targeted way to reduce that barrier — helping you move more freely and recover more naturally.

When Is Diclofenac Typically Prescribed?

Diclofenac is most often prescribed when pain is clearly linked to inflammation — not just soreness, but swelling, stiffness, or warmth in the joints or muscles. That’s why it’s a common choice for conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, and injuries where visible irritation is part of the picture.

In chronic cases such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, diclofenac helps reduce flare-ups, ease stiffness, and improve daily mobility. For many patients, it’s the difference between moving through the day and feeling held back by joint discomfort.

It’s also frequently used after surgery, dental procedures, or physical trauma — especially when lighter, inflammation-targeted pain control is needed without the heavy sedation associated with some other options.

However, not all pain responds equally. If the discomfort stems from nerve irritation, migraines, or other non-inflammatory causes, different treatments may be more effective. That’s why getting a clear diagnosis before starting any NSAID is important — to match the right tool to the real problem.

How to Take Diclofenac: Dosage and Forms

Diclofenac is available in several forms — and choosing the right one depends on where the pain is, how severe it feels, and how quickly you need relief.

Tablets are the most common option: typically 50 mg to 75 mg, taken once or twice daily with meals to protect the stomach lining. Some people start at 25 mg if they have a history of sensitivity to NSAIDs. Extended-release versions should never be crushed or chewed — they’re designed to release medication slowly and steadily over time.

Topical gels or creams are a good choice for joint pain near the surface — like knees, wrists, or shoulders. They deliver the medicine directly to the affected area with fewer whole-body effects, making them ideal for patients managing multiple conditions or sensitive stomachs.

Suppositories are used when oral medication isn’t practical — for instance, after surgery, during nausea, or when rapid absorption is needed without taxing the digestive system.

Injections are usually reserved for hospital settings to control acute inflammation quickly. They're potent but intended for short-term use under medical supervision, not for long-term daily management.

Best practice: Always take oral diclofenac with food and a full glass of water. Stay hydrated, stick to the prescribed schedule, and never double doses after a missed one. If you're unsure whether tablets, topical forms, or another option fits your situation best, ask your provider — the right delivery method makes a real difference in both results and safety.

Diclofenac Side Effects: What’s Normal, What’s Not

Like all NSAIDs, diclofenac can cause side effects — but not everyone experiences them, and most are mild and manageable.

Common and usually harmless: mild stomach discomfort, heartburn, headache, or dizziness. These effects often ease as your body adjusts — especially when you take diclofenac with meals.

Watch for warning signs: black stools, sharp stomach pain, unusual bruising, or persistent nausea. These symptoms could indicate stomach lining irritation or bleeding risks, particularly if you use blood thinners or drink alcohol regularly.

Seek immediate medical help if you experience: chest pain, shortness of breath, vision changes, or sudden swelling. Though rare, diclofenac — like other NSAIDs — may impact heart health, especially at high doses or with long-term use.

To lower risks, stick to the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed, avoid combining NSAIDs, and tell your doctor about any preexisting heart, stomach, liver, or kidney issues before starting.

Who Should Not Take Diclofenac?

Diclofenac isn’t safe for everyone — and in some cases, it may do more harm than good.

If you have a history of: heart disease, past heart attack, stroke, circulation problems, stomach ulcers, kidney disease, or asthma triggered by painkillers — talk with your doctor before using diclofenac. These conditions may raise the risk of serious side effects.

In late pregnancy, diclofenac is generally avoided, as it can affect fetal circulation or prolong labor. Earlier in pregnancy, occasional use might be considered under close medical supervision — but self-medicating is never recommended.

People with sensitive stomachs or prior gastrointestinal bleeding are also at higher risk — even small doses can irritate the digestive tract. Protective measures, like using a stomach shield (such as PPIs) or choosing topical forms, are sometimes better options.

If you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to aspirin, ibuprofen, or other NSAIDs, such as swelling, rash, or breathing difficulties — alert your doctor. Reactions are rare but potentially dangerous.

Important: Sometimes it’s not a clear "no," but a matter of adjusting the form, dose, or timing. Your provider can help customize a plan if diclofenac is appropriate for your needs.

Precautions While Using Diclofenac

Getting the benefits of diclofenac while minimizing risks starts with a few simple habits.

Take it with food or a full glass of water — this protects your stomach lining and improves absorption. Skipping meals or taking it on an empty stomach raises the risk of irritation.

Avoid mixing diclofenac with alcohol, aspirin, or other NSAIDs unless your doctor advises otherwise. These combinations silently increase bleeding and stomach risks, even if you feel fine.

Stick to the timing: if you miss a dose, don't double up — resume your regular schedule. And consider taking diclofenac earlier in the day if you notice it affecting sleep or digestion.

Keep your doctor informed about all medications and supplements, especially blood pressure drugs, anticoagulants, or corticosteroids. Subtle interactions can develop over time if left unchecked.

Golden rule: use the lowest dose for the shortest necessary time — and listen to your body. Early signs of discomfort are your cue to adjust, not to push through.

How to Avoid Side Effects While Using Diclofenac

Most side effects linked to diclofenac can be prevented — or at least reduced — by how and when you take it.

Start with food: Always take diclofenac after a meal or a substantial snack. This shields the stomach lining and helps minimize the chances of nausea, burning, or stomach cramps — side effects that are more common when NSAIDs are taken on an empty stomach.

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout your course of treatment. Good hydration helps support kidney function — an important but often overlooked factor with NSAIDs.

Limit overlapping medications: If you're already using aspirin, corticosteroids, or frequent ibuprofen, ask your doctor whether a stomach-protecting medication (such as a PPI) would help reduce your risk of irritation or bleeding.

Stick to your schedule: More is not better. If you miss a dose, don’t double up. Taking extra doses raises side effect risks without improving pain control.

Listen to early signs: Unusual fatigue, dark stools, or persistent bloating are signals to pause and check in with your provider. Catching small changes early often prevents larger issues later.

Missed a Dose or Took Too Much Diclofenac?

Missed a dose? Take it as soon as you remember — unless it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose. If so, skip the missed one. Never double up — it doesn’t boost relief and may heighten side effects.

Accidentally took more than prescribed?

• Stay calm — one extra pill isn’t usually dangerous, especially if taken with food.
• Monitor for early signs of trouble: dizziness, nausea, ringing in the ears, or stomach pain.
• Drink water, avoid alcohol, and pause additional doses until speaking with your provider.

Seek immediate medical attention if you notice: chest pain, black stools, severe abdominal cramps, confusion, or breathing problems. These are rare but require fast action.

Best prevention tip: Keep diclofenac visible — use a pill organizer, phone reminder, or visual cue. This small step helps avoid most common dosing errors.

Which Medications Should Not Be Combined with Diclofenac?

Diclofenac can quietly interact with other medications — sometimes without immediate symptoms.

Key combinations to watch:

• Blood thinners (like warfarin) or antiplatelet agents (like aspirin): Risk of internal bleeding rises.
• Other NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen): Duplicate effects increase stomach, heart, and kidney risks.
• Blood pressure medications, diuretics, ACE inhibitors: Diclofenac can weaken their effectiveness or stress your kidneys over time.

Alcohol caution: Occasional moderate drinking may be tolerated, but regular alcohol use combined with diclofenac increases risks of stomach bleeding and liver strain — even with normal doses.

Simple rule: If you take more than one daily medication — prescription or OTC — bring a full list to your doctor or pharmacist. They'll catch unsafe overlaps before they become a problem.

Which Form of Diclofenac Is Right for You?

Diclofenac is available in several forms — each designed for different types of pain and treatment needs. Choosing the right one isn’t about what’s strongest; it’s about what best fits your symptoms, lifestyle, and overall health.

Tablets are commonly used for deeper or widespread inflammation — such as arthritis, back pain, or post-surgical swelling. They work systemically throughout the body and should be taken with food to protect the stomach lining.

Topical gels or creams are ideal for more localized pain — like in the knees, hands, or shoulders. These forms act directly at the site of discomfort with fewer whole-body side effects, making them a good choice for those with sensitive stomachs or multiple medications.

Suppositories offer an option when swallowing medication isn't possible — for instance, after surgery, during nausea, or for nighttime relief. They bypass the digestive system entirely and provide relatively fast absorption.

Injections are reserved for clinical settings — often used short-term for acute inflammation or surgical recovery. They deliver rapid results but aren’t typically intended for long-term self-use at home.

Need guidance? If the pain is mild and localized, a topical gel might be enough. If it’s widespread or persistent, tablets may offer more consistent relief. And if you're unsure, your provider can recommend the best form based on your specific symptoms and goals.

Can You Use Diclofenac During Pregnancy or While Breastfeeding?

Diclofenac is generally avoided during pregnancy — especially in the third trimester — due to potential risks to fetal circulation and kidney function.

In early pregnancy, short-term use might be considered under close medical supervision if safer alternatives aren’t available. However, starting or continuing diclofenac without your doctor’s approval isn’t recommended at any stage of pregnancy.

During breastfeeding, small amounts of diclofenac can pass into breast milk. While topical forms (like gels) are generally considered safer — especially when applied away from the chest — it’s still important to use them cautiously and under medical advice if breastfeeding long-term or at high doses.

If you’re planning pregnancy or recently learned you're expecting, talk to your healthcare provider right away. Safer alternatives for managing inflammation are available, and early adjustments help protect both you and your baby’s health.

How to Store Diclofenac at Home

Proper storage helps diclofenac stay effective and safe — even small mistakes can impact how well it works.

Keep it in a dry place at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Bathrooms, kitchens, and window ledges aren't ideal because humidity and light can gradually degrade the medication, even inside a closed box.

Avoid refrigeration or freezing unless your pharmacist specifically recommends it. Most diclofenac products maintain stability best between 68°F and 77°F (20°C–25°C).

For topical forms like gels: always tighten the cap securely and store them upright when possible to prevent leaks and preserve consistency.

Keep all diclofenac products out of reach of children and pets, even if it’s a gel or a single tablet. Small accidental exposures can lead to serious reactions, especially in young children.

And if a medication looks different, smells unusual, or changes texture — don’t use it. When in doubt, ask your pharmacist. It’s safer to double-check than risk using something that’s no longer reliable.

Can You Buy Diclofenac Online?

Yes — but it’s important to be cautious and choose reputable sources.

If you're purchasing oral diclofenac (tablets or capsules), always use a licensed pharmacy that requires a prescription. Trusted online pharmacies will ask about your medical history, current medications, and any potential risks with NSAIDs before approving the sale.

Topical forms like gels are often available without a prescription in some regions — but still, check the source carefully. Look for clearly listed expiration dates, sealed packaging, and labeled dosage information in milligrams (mg).

Warning signs to avoid:

• Sites without a licensed pharmacist or a verifiable physical address
• Products with vague labels like “pain relief formula” that don’t clearly state ingredients
• Offers that seem unusually cheap and lack clear verification details

Not sure about a seller? Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a recommendation. Taking a few extra minutes to verify the source protects you from counterfeit or unsafe products — and ensures the relief you’re seeking comes with peace of mind.