Diclofenac
Diclofenac is a anti-inflammatory painkiller (NSAID) found in 13 medicines sold in India, such as Voveran 50, Voveran SR 100, Dynapar 50. Below: what it is for, how it works, how to take it, side effects, interactions and pregnancy advice.
Also called: diclofenac sodium, diclofenac potassium
What it is used for
Relieves pain and swelling from arthritis, sprains, back pain and dental pain.
How it works
An NSAID that blocks prostaglandin production. It is a strong, fast painkiller for inflammation-driven pain.
How to take it
Typical adult doses are 50 mg two or three times a day, or one 75 to 100 mg slow-release tablet daily, after food. Swallow slow-release tablets whole. Injections are given by a health professional.
Common side effects
- Indigestion
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Headache
- Dizziness
Get medical help straight away if
- Black or bloody stools
- Chest pain, breathlessness or weakness on one side (heart attack or stroke signs)
- Yellow skin
- Much less urine
- Severe skin reaction
Be careful
Take after food. Can cause stomach bleeding and raise heart and kidney risk with long use.
Other medicines and interactions
Avoid with other NSAIDs and with blood thinners unless a doctor agrees. Can reduce the effect of blood pressure medicines and raise potassium and kidney risk with ACE inhibitors, ARBs and spironolactone. Raises lithium and methotrexate levels.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Avoid in the last three months of pregnancy and use earlier only on medical advice. Only small amounts pass into breast milk; short courses may be acceptable if a doctor agrees.
Brands of Diclofenac (11)
Combination medicines that contain Diclofenac (2)
Common questions
What is Diclofenac used for?
Relieves pain and swelling from arthritis, sprains, back pain and dental pain.
How does Diclofenac work?
An NSAID that blocks prostaglandin production. It is a strong, fast painkiller for inflammation-driven pain.
How should I take Diclofenac?
Typical adult doses are 50 mg two or three times a day, or one 75 to 100 mg slow-release tablet daily, after food. Swallow slow-release tablets whole. Injections are given by a health professional.
What are the side effects of Diclofenac?
Common: Indigestion, stomach pain, nausea, diarrhoea, headache, dizziness. Get help straight away for: Black or bloody stools, chest pain, breathlessness or weakness on one side (heart attack or stroke signs), yellow skin, much less urine, severe skin reaction.
Does Diclofenac interact with other medicines?
Avoid with other NSAIDs and with blood thinners unless a doctor agrees. Can reduce the effect of blood pressure medicines and raise potassium and kidney risk with ACE inhibitors, ARBs and spironolactone. Raises lithium and methotrexate levels.
Is Diclofenac safe in pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Avoid in the last three months of pregnancy and use earlier only on medical advice. Only small amounts pass into breast milk; short courses may be acceptable if a doctor agrees.
Does Diclofenac need a prescription in India?
Yes. In India it is a prescription (Schedule H) medicine, so a pharmacist should sell it only with a doctor's prescription.
Which brands contain Diclofenac?
Diclonac 50, Divon 50, Dynapar 50, Dynapar AQ, Enzoflam, Fenak 50, Inac-50, Jonac, Myospaz Forte, Reactin 50, Voltaflam 50, Voveran 50, Voveran SR 100.
Sources and further reading
- Diclofenac: NHS · MedlinePlus
NHS (UK National Health Service) and MedlinePlus (US National Library of Medicine) are free, reviewed medicine guides. Brand names and doses there may differ from India.
Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu from standard prescribing information.
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