Diclofenac Sodium Uses: An Introduction
Diclofenac sodium (
Voltaren®, Voltaren
®-XR) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to treat several conditions related to pain, inflammation, swelling, and stiffness.
Specific uses for diclofenac sodium include the relief of:
However, the medication is not a cure for these
types of arthritis, nor does it slow down the progression of the disease.
How Does Diclofenac Sodium Work?
Diclofenac sodium and other
NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) work by inhibiting the production of certain substances, called prostaglandins, that cause inflammation and pain in the body. By blocking the production of prostaglandins, diclofenac sodium is useful at alleviating pain, inflammation, and joint swelling associated with different forms of
arthritis.
Using Diclofenac Sodium in Children
Diclofenac sodium is not approved for use in children.