Diclofenac sodium is a prescription drug used to treat symptoms of several types of arthritis. This eMedTV article explains the conditions the drug can treat (such as osteoarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis), side effects, dosing, and strengths.
As this eMedTV article explains, people taking diclofenac sodium may sometimes experience potentially life-threatening symptoms like chest pain and slurred speech. This article lists common, rare, and serious diclofenac sodium side effects.
This eMedTV page explains that diclofenac sodium is used to treat symptoms of several conditions related to pain and inflammation, like gout, but doesn't cure them. This page also lists off-label uses for the drug and discusses its use in children.
The usual dose of diclofenac sodium for osteoarthritis is 100 mg to 150 mg daily. This eMedTV resource also gives the recommended dose for rheumatoid arthritis (150 mg to 200 mg daily) and offers general tips taking diclofenac sodium safely.
Diclofenac sodium can potentially interfere with many other drugs, including ACE inhibitors and diuretics. This eMedTV Web page explains how diclofenac sodium drug interactions can sometimes change the way your body metabolizes the drugs.
Among the precautions and warnings with diclofenac sodium highlighted in this eMedTV page are potential drug interactions; side effects, like swelling and stomach ulcers; and symptoms requiring emergency medical care, such as weakness and chest pain.
You can find generic diclofenac sodium under the name Diclofenac Sodium tablets. This segment of the eMedTV library gives an overview of this medication, including which companies manufacture it, its uses, and available strengths.
