Diclofenac is a widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that relieves pain, reduces inflammation, and lowers fever. Belonging to the phenylacetic acid class, it exerts its therapeutic effect by inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase enzymes, which diminishes prostaglandin synthesis at sites of injury. In Singapore, diclofenac is available both as low-dose over-the-counter tablets and higher-strength formulations that require a prescription. It is marketed under several well-known brand names-including Voltaren, Cataflam and Zipsor-and as a generic product, making it accessible through our online pharmacy. Clinicians prescribe diclofenac for conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, acute musculoskeletal pain, postoperative discomfort, and dysmenorrhea. Off-label, it has occasionally been employed to manage migraine attacks and certain types of acute gout flares when other options are unsuitable.

What is Diclofenac?

Diclofenac is classified as a non-selective cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1/COX-2) inhibitor within the NSAID family. The Singapore Health Sciences Authority (HSA) first approved diclofenac for medical use in 1978, initially for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, and later expanded its indications to include osteoarthritis, acute pain, and postoperative inflammation. By blocking COX enzymes, diclofenac reduces the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, which are key mediators of pain, swelling, and fever. The drug is sold under multiple brand names-Voltaren, Cataflam, and Zipsor-while generic versions are widely distributed. You can purchase diclofenac online through our pharmacy service, where both branded and generic options are stocked.

How Diclofenac Works

Mechanism of Action

Diclofenac binds reversibly to the active sites of COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, preventing the enzymatic formation of prostaglandin H₂, the precursor of all prostaglandins. This inhibition curtails the inflammatory cascade at its source. Because COX-2 is primarily induced during inflammation, diclofenac’s stronger affinity for COX-2 accounts for much of its anti-inflammatory potency, while COX-1 inhibition contributes to analgesia and antipyretic effects.

Therapeutic Effects

By reducing prostaglandin levels, diclofenac diminishes peripheral sensitization of nociceptors, leading to less pain perception. In joints, lowered prostaglandin production translates into decreased synovial inflammation and improved mobility. The antipyretic action stems from central COX inhibition within the hypothalamic heat-regulation center, thereby resetting the body’s temperature set-point.

Onset and Duration

Clinical studies show that oral diclofenac begins to relieve mild to moderate pain within 30-60 minutes, with peak plasma concentrations reached at about 2 hours. The analgesic effect typically lasts 6-8 hours, allowing twice-daily dosing for many chronic conditions. For acute postoperative pain, intravenous or intramuscular administration can produce noticeable relief within 15 minutes.

Approved Uses and Applications

Approved Indications

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis: Reduces joint pain and swelling, improving functional ability (HSA, 2022).
Ankylosing spondylitis: Alleviates spinal stiffness and inflammatory back pain (EMA, 2021).
Acute musculoskeletal pain: Treats sprains, strains, and sports injuries (FDA, 202).
Postoperative pain: Provides short-term analgesia after minor surgical procedures (WHO, 202).
Dysmenorrhea: Relieves menstrual cramps when taken at the onset of pain (HSA, 2022).

Off-Label Uses

Diclofenac has been investigated for migraine prophylaxis and for acute gout flares unresponsive to first-line agents. These applications are not officially approved by regulatory agencies, and clinicians employ them only after careful risk-benefit assessment.

Clinical Efficacy

A randomized, double-blind trial published in The New England Journal of Medicine demonstrated that diclofenac 100 mg twice daily reduced osteoarthritis knee pain scores by 30 % compared with placebo after 4 weeks. In another study in Lancet Rheumatology, patients with rheumatoid arthritis experienced a 45 % decrease in swollen joint counts after 12 weeks of diclofenac therapy.

Buying Diclofenac from Our Online Pharmacy

Why Choose Our Service

Accessing diclofenac can be challenging for individuals who prefer discreet, affordable options. Through our platform, you receive a secure, regulated supply that arrives at your doorstep without the usual pharmacy queues.

Brand Names and Generic Options

Voltaren: Popular branded gel for topical application.
Cataflam: Fast-acting oral tablet often used for acute attacks.
Zipsor: Extended-release capsule designed for chronic pain.
Generic diclofenac: Identical active ingredient at a fraction of the cost.

Our online pharmacy lists both brand-name and generic formulations, allowing you to compare prices and select the most economical choice.

Quality & Safety

We facilitate shipments through verified partners that operate under HSA-approved licensing frameworks, ensuring that every product meets strict quality standards.

Pricing & Access

Generic diclofenac tablets are typically 60 % cheaper than branded equivalents. Customers who enroll in our loyalty program enjoy a lifetime 10 % discount on all reorders, making long-term therapy more sustainable.

Discreet Delivery

Orders processed through our pharmacy service are packed in unmarked, tamper-evident envelopes. Express shipping reaches most Singaporean addresses within 7 days, while standard delivery arrives in up to 3 weeks.

Dosing, Formulations & Administration

Available Formulations

Oral tablets: 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg.
Extended-release capsules: 75 mg, 100 mg.
Topical gel: 1 % diclofenac (Voltaren Gel).
Injectable solution: 75 mg/3 mL for intramuscular use.

Typical Dosing Ranges

For osteoarthritis, clinicians often start adults on 50 mg twice daily, adjusting upward to 75 mg three times daily based on response and tolerance. Acute migraine attacks may be managed with a single 50 mg oral dose, while postoperative pain often calls for 100 mg intravenously every 8 hours. These examples illustrate common practice; a healthcare provider will tailor the exact regimen to your specific condition and health profile.

Administration Guidelines

Oral tablets: Take with water; food can reduce gastrointestinal irritation but may slightly delay absorption.
Extended-release capsules: Swallow whole; crushing compromises the release mechanism.
Topical gel: Apply a thin layer to the affected area three times daily, rinsing hands after use.
Injectable form: Administered by a qualified professional in a clinical setting.

A qualified clinician must determine the appropriate dose, formulation, and schedule for each patient.

Safety Profile & Considerations

Common Side Effects

Gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, dyspepsia) - reported in >10 % of users.
Headache - occurs in 5-10 % of patients.
Dizziness - seen in roughly 4 % of trials.
Elevated liver enzymes - observed in 2-3 % of long-term users.
Mild skin reactions at the application site of the gel - <5 % incidence.

Serious Adverse Events

Rare but severe events include gastrointestinal bleeding, myocardial infarction, and stroke. These complications are more likely in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease or ulcerative disorders. Immediate medical attention is warranted for sudden abdominal pain, black stools, or signs of a heart attack.

Contraindications

Diclofenac should not be used by individuals with:

Active peptic ulcer disease or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Severe heart failure, recent myocardial infarction, or uncontrolled hypertension.
Known hypersensitivity to diclofenac or other NSAIDs.

Drug Interactions

CYP450 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin) may increase diclofenac plasma levels.
Anticoagulants (warfarin, direct oral anticoagulants) amplify bleeding risk.
Other NSAIDs or aspirin heighten gastrointestinal toxicity.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) raise the chance of bleeding.

Patients should disclose all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, to their provider.

Special Populations

Pregnancy: Generally avoided in the third trimester due to risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus.
Breastfeeding: Small amounts appear in milk; caution is advised.
Elderly: Age-related decline in renal function may necessitate lower doses.
Renal or hepatic impairment: Dose adjustments or alternative therapies are often recommended.

Always discuss these considerations with a qualified clinician before initiating therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does diclofenac differ from ibuprofen? Diclofenac has a higher affinity for COX-2, providing stronger anti-inflammatory action, whereas ibuprofen is a more balanced COX-1/COX-2 inhibitor with a slightly shorter half-life.
How long before diclofenac produces noticeable effects for osteoarthritis? Most patients report pain relief within 30 minutes to 1 hour after the first oral dose, with maximal benefit observed after several days of consistent use.
What should I do if I develop stomach pain while taking diclofenac? Discontinue the medication and seek medical evaluation promptly, as gastrointestinal irritation can precede ulcer formation.
Can I take diclofenac with alcohol? Combining alcohol with diclofenac increases the risk of stomach bleeding; it is advisable to limit or avoid alcohol during treatment.
Is it safe to use diclofenac gel while also taking oral tablets? Concurrent topical and oral therapy may raise systemic exposure; discuss the combined use with your healthcare professional.
What are the signs of a serious allergic reaction to diclofenac? Look for rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, and difficulty breathing-these symptoms require emergency medical care.
Does taking diclofenac with food affect its absorption? Food can slow absorption slightly, reducing gastrointestinal upset, but it does not significantly alter overall efficacy.
How does long-term diclofenac use impact cardiovascular health? Prolonged high-dose therapy is associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke; regular monitoring is essential for at-risk patients.
Can diclofenac be used to treat migraine attacks? While not officially approved, some clinicians prescribe diclofenac for acute migraine relief when other treatments fail, based on limited evidence.
What information should I provide my doctor when discussing diclofenac?
- Complete list of current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
- History of heart disease, ulcers, kidney or liver problems.
- Specific pain location, severity, and duration.
- Any known drug allergies or previous reactions to NSAIDs.

Disclaimer

The information provided about diclofenac is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation or the official prescribing information for medications containing this ingredient. All treatment decisions, including dosing, formulation selection, and monitoring, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who can assess individual medical history, current medications, and specific health needs. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to medications containing diclofenac for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription-based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication containing diclofenac.

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