Diclofenac is a generic prescription medication. It’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat symptoms of certain types of arthritis.
Specifically, diclofenac is prescribed to treat symptoms caused by the following conditions in adults:
Diclofenac may be used short or long term to treat symptoms caused by these conditions. Your doctor will prescribe the lowest dose for the shortest time possible to treat your symptoms.
For more information about how the drug is used, see the “Diclofenac uses” section below.
Drug details
Diclofenac belongs to a class of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
The drug comes as an oral tablet and in topical forms. The topical forms include a gel you apply to your skin and a solution eye drop. However, this article only covers the oral tablet form of diclofenac. Talk with your doctor if you’d like to learn about the other forms of the drug.
Diclofenac oral tablets come in two different forms:
- delayed-release (DR)* tablets that come in three strengths: 25 milligrams (mg), 50 mg, and 75 mg
- extended-release (ER)* tablets that come in one strength: 100 milligrams (mg)
Also, diclofenac is available in two different salt versions called diclofenac sodium and diclofenac potassium. These drugs come in different oral forms and are used to treat different conditions. This article only covers diclofenac sodium, which is referred to as “diclofenac.”
* With DR tablets, the drug releases once it enters your stomach. With ER tablets, the drug releases into your body over time.
Brand-name versions
Diclofenac is a generic for the brand-name drug Voltaren, which comes as an oral tablet or topical gel. However, Voltaren tablets are no longer marketed in the United States. Brand-name Voltaren gel is still available. It can be purchased over the counter without a doctor’s prescription.
Diclofenac is a generic drug. A generic drug is an exact copy of the active drug in a brand-name medication. Voltaren is the brand-name medication that diclofenac is based on. A generic is considered to be as safe and effective as the original drug. Generics tend to cost less than brand-name drugs.
If you’re interested in taking Voltaren instead of diclofenac, talk with your doctor. They can tell you if Voltaren comes in forms and strengths that can be used for your condition. If you have insurance, you’ll also need to check whether your plan will cover Voltaren.
To learn more about how generics compare with brand-name drugs, see this article.
The diclofenac dosage your doctor prescribes will depend on several factors. These include:
- the type and severity of the condition you’re using diclofenac to treat
- your age
- the form of diclofenac you take
- other medical conditions you may have
Your doctor may adjust your diclofenac oral dose over time to reach the amount that’s right for you. They’ll ultimately prescribe the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect.
The following information describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended, including the recommended maximum dose. However, be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. Your doctor will determine the best dosage to fit your needs.
Dosage for osteoarthritis
The table below summarizes the dosage of diclofenac for osteoarthritis:
| Diclofenac for osteoarthritis | |
| Forms | • delayed-release (DR)* oral tablets • extended-release (ER)* oral tablets |
| Strengths | • DR tablets: 25 milligrams (mg), 50 mg, 75 mg • ER tablets: 100 mg |
| Doses | • DR tablets: 50 mg to 75 mg • ER tablets: 100 mg |
| How often | • DR tablets: two or three times per day • ER tablets: once per day |
* With DR tablets, the drug releases once it enters your stomach. With ER tablets, the drug releases into your body over time.
Dosage for rheumatoid arthritis
The table below summarizes the dosage of diclofenac for rheumatoid arthritis:
| Diclofenac for rheumatoid arthritis | |
| Forms | • DR oral tablets • ER oral tablets |
| Strengths | • DR tablets: 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg • ER tablets: 100 mg |
| Doses | • DR tablets: 50 mg to 75 mg • ER tablets: 100 mg |
| How often | • DR tablets: two or three times per day • ER tablets: once per day |
Dosage for ankylosing spondylitis
The table below summarizes the dosage of diclofenac for ankylosing spondylitis:
| Diclofenac for ankylosing spondylitis | |
| Form | • DR oral tablets |
| Strengths | • 25 mg • 50 mg • 75 mg |
| Dose | • 25 mg |
| How often | • four times per day |
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of diclofenac, try and take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular scheduled time. Do not take more than one dose of diclofenac at once.
To help make sure that you don’t miss a dose, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or using a timer. You could also download a reminder app on your phone.
Will I need to take this drug long term?
Diclofenac can be used as a short-term or long-term treatment. It’s important to note that the conditions diclofenac is approved to treat are progressive. This means their symptoms generally worsen over time, especially without treatment.
Your doctor will prescribe the lowest dose of diclofenac for the shortest time possible to treat your symptoms. If you and your doctor determine that diclofenac is safe and effective for you, you might take it long term.
Diclofenac (also called diclofenac sodium) can cause mild or serious side effects. The following lists contain some of the most common side effects of diclofenac that may occur during treatment. These lists do not include all possible side effects.
For more information about the possible side effects of diclofenac, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can give you tips on how to manage any side effects that may be concerning or bothersome.
Note: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) tracks side effects of drugs it has approved. If you’d like to notify the FDA about a side effect you’ve had with diclofenac, you can do so through MedWatch.
Mild side effects
Below is a partial list of mild side effects of diclofenac. To learn about other mild side effects, talk with your doctor or pharmacist, or view diclofenac’s prescribing information.
Mild side effects of diclofenac can include:
- abdominal pain
- diarrhea
- dizziness
- fluid retention (buildup)
- feeling sleepy
- hair loss
- headache
- heartburn
- itchy skin
- gas
- nausea and vomiting
- upset stomach
- mild allergic reaction*
Most of these side effects may go away within a few days to a couple of weeks. However, if they become more severe or don’t go away, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
* For more information about allergic reaction and diclofenac, see “Allergic reaction” below.
Serious side effects
Serious side effects from diclofenac aren’t common, but they can occur. Call your doctor right away if you have serious side effects. Call 911 or your local emergency number if your symptoms feel life threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency.
Serious side effects can include:
- changes in blood cell levels, including thrombocytopenia (low platelet level)
- breathing problems, such as shortness of breath or asthma
- heart problems, including high blood pressure or heart failure
- kidney problems, such as kidney failure
- liver problems, including liver failure
- mood changes, such as anxiety or depression
- increased risk of bleeding, holes, and ulcers (sores) in your gastrointestinal tract (stomach and intestines)*
- increased risk of cardiovascular problems*
- severe allergic reaction, including severe skin reactions†
* Diclofenac delayed-release tablets and extended-release tablets have a
† For details about allergic reaction and diclofenac, see “Allergic reaction” below.
ALLERGIC REACTIONAs with most drugs, some people can have an allergic reaction after taking diclofenac. This was a rare side effect in clinical trials of diclofenac delayed-release tablets and extended-release tablets.
Symptoms of a mild allergic reaction can include:
A more severe allergic reaction is rare but possible. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction can include:
- swelling under your skin, typically in your eyelids, lips, hands, or feet
- swelling of your tongue, mouth, or throat
- trouble breathing
Severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis have also been reported with diclofenac. These are specific allergic reactions that are life threatening and require treatment right away in a hospital or emergency room. Symptoms of these skin reactions can include a skin rash that blisters and peels, generally feeling unwell, or fever. They can also include red or stinging eyes, sore throat, headache, or body or muscle aches.
Call your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction to diclofenac, as the reaction could become severe. Call 911 or your local emergency number if your symptoms feel life threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency.
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about diclofenac.
What’s the difference between diclofenac and other NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen?
There are many nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) available besides diclofenac. Unlike diclofenac, certain NSAIDs can be purchased over the counter (OTC) without a doctor’s prescription. Examples of OTC NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve).
Examples of other NSAIDs include meloxicam (Mobic) and celecoxib (Celebrex). There are also others that aren’t available in the U.S., such as aceclofenac. These other NSAIDs have different uses and dosages, and they require a doctor’s prescription.
To learn more about how different NSAIDs compare, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
How long can you take diclofenac for?
Diclofenac is typically prescribed as a long-term treatment. You’ll take the medication for as long as it’s safe and effective in treating symptoms of your condition.
Diclofenac can sometimes be used short term if this works to treat symptoms of your condition. However, it’s common for symptoms to return after stopping diclofenac treatment.
It’s important to note that the conditions* diclofenac is approved to treat are progressive. This means their symptoms generally worsen over time, especially without treatment. So if you’re prescribed diclofenac long term, be sure to continue taking it.
Talk with your doctor to learn more about how long you can expect to take diclofenac.
* To learn more about the approved uses of diclofenac, see the “Diclofenac uses” section below.
Can diclofenac be used for other types of pain, such as headache, toothache, or back pain?
Diclofenac is not approved to treat other types of pain, including gout. However, doctors may prescribe the drug off-label for this use. Off-label drug use is when a drug that’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is prescribed for a purpose other than what it’s approved for.
Diclofenac is approved to treat symptoms, including pain, due to osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. For more details, see the “Diclofenac uses” section below.
To learn more about off-label uses of diclofenac, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. If you have pain, your doctor can help find the right treatment for you.
What are the side effects and dosage of diclofenac gel?
Diclofenac gel is used to treat arthritis pain. It’s typically applied to sore joints from two to four times per day. Diclofenac gel is available over the counter (OTC) without a prescription in the U.S.
Side effects reported in clinical trials of OTC diclofenac gel include application reactions, such as skin irritation. Unlike diclofenac tablets, diclofenac gel isn’t absorbed by your entire body. So it likely won’t cause side effects that diclofenac tablets may cause.*
This article focuses on diclofenac tablets. To learn more about diclofenac gel, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can tell you more, including how diclofenac gel works.
* For more information about diclofenac’s side effects, see the “Diclofenac side effects” section above.
Is diclofenac a narcotic?
No, diclofenac isn’t a narcotic. It’s not addictive and won’t make you feel “high.”
“Narcotics” refer to opioids, a type of prescription pain reliever. Opioids are addictive and can make you feel “high.” Due to this risk, doctors typically avoid prescribing opioids unless other pain relievers don’t work well enough to treat pain symptoms. Examples of opioids include morphine (MS Contin) and oxycodone (OxyContin).
If you have questions about opioids, talk with your doctor.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves prescription drugs such as diclofenac to treat certain conditions. Diclofenac tablets may also be used off-label for other conditions. Off-label drug use is when an FDA-approved drug is prescribed for a purpose other than what it’s approved for.
Diclofenac for osteoarthritis
Diclofenac may be prescribed to treat osteoarthritis. Both diclofenac delayed-release (DR) tablets and extended-release (ER) tablets are approved for this use. (With DR tablets, the drug releases once it enters your stomach. With ER tablets, the drug releases into your body over time.)
Osteoarthritis explained
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a condition that causes your cartilage to break down.
Cartilage is a protective tissue that covers the ends of your bones. Cartilage is important because it helps prevent bones from rubbing against one another when you move. Since OA causes cartilage to break down, eventually your bones will begin to rub against each other. This causes symptoms typical of OA, including stiffness and pain in your joints.
OA is a progressive condition. This means symptoms typically worsen over time. You may not have symptoms during the early stages of OA. However, as the condition progresses, you may start to experience symptoms that’ll likely worsen without treatment.
OA can affect any joint, but most commonly affects joints in the shoulders, hands, fingers, hips, and knees.
Aging and repeated stress to your joints over time can cause OA. Other causes include poor posture, injury, and obesity.
You can learn more about OA by viewing our arthritis hub.
Diclofenac for rheumatoid arthritis
Diclofenac is prescribed to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Both diclofenac DR tablets and ER tablets are approved for this use.
Rheumatoid arthritis explained
RA is an autoimmune condition that results in joint damage.
With autoimmune conditions, your immune system attacks your own cells. Usually, your immune system helps protect you against germs. However, for unknown reasons in certain people, it can mistakenly attack the body’s own cells.
RA occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks the linings of your joints. Over time, this causes joint damage, which can cause joints to lose their function and shape. RA can destroy your joints over time if the condition isn’t properly treated.
RA symptoms can affect one or multiple joints. These symptoms include:
- pain or aches
- swelling
- tenderness
- stiffness
You can learn more about RA by viewing our RA hub.
Diclofenac for ankylosing spondylitis
Diclofenac DR tablets are approved for treating ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Diclofenac ER tablets are not approved for treating AS.
Ankylosing spondylitis explained
AS is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in your spine. Over time, this inflammation can cause spinal bones to fuse together.
AS symptoms can include:
- pain in your lower back and pelvis
- trouble moving
- stiffness, which worsens in the morning or during sleep
AS is a form of arthritis. You can learn more about AS by viewing our arthritis hub.
Below is more information on diclofenac, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
Diclofenac and pregnancy
Similar to other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), it isn’t safe to take diclofenac at week 30 of pregnancy and beyond. This is because NSAIDs can cause harm if used at this point in pregnancy. Specifically, NSAID use during pregnancy may affect the amount of nutrients that reach the developing fetus. It may also cause kidney problems in a newborn.
Due to these risks, your doctor may recommend you do not take diclofenac from week 20 of pregnancy. This is because NSAIDs may cause harm if used between weeks 20 and 30 of pregnancy. And during this period, the risk of harm may be greater if NSAIDs are used for more than 48 hours.
If an NSAID is prescribed for you during this period, your doctor will closely monitor you for any signs of complications. This includes a lack of nutrients reaching the fetus.
Talk with your doctor to learn more about the risks and benefits of taking treatments for your condition during pregnancy.
Diclofenac and fertility
In rare cases, NSAIDs such as diclofenac may cause reversible infertility (temporary inability to become pregnant) in females.* This is based on how the drug works. Fertility may return after diclofenac treatment ends.
The drug’s manufacturer hasn’t stated whether diclofenac affects male* fertility. If you have questions about how diclofenac may affect your fertility, talk with your doctor.
* Sex and gender exist on spectrums. Use of the terms “female” and “male” in this article refers to sex assigned at birth.
Diclofenac and breastfeeding
Diclofenac may pass into breast milk. However, it isn’t known if the drug causes side effects in a child who is breastfed.
Talk with your doctor to learn more about the risks and benefits of breastfeeding while you’re taking diclofenac.
Diclofenac and birth control
It may not be safe to take diclofenac during certain weeks of pregnancy. If you’re sexually active and you or your partner can become pregnant, talk with your doctor about your birth control needs while you’re taking diclofenac.
For more information about taking diclofenac during pregnancy, see “Diclofenac and pregnancy” above.
Diclofenac is known to interact with alcohol.
Drinking alcohol while taking diclofenac increases your risk of ulcers (sores) and bleeding in your gastrointestinal tract (stomach and intestines).* Due to this risk, if you drink alcohol, your doctor may suggest avoiding it if you’re prescribed diclofenac.
Talk with your doctor before drinking alcohol during diclofenac treatment.
* Diclofenac delayed-release tablets and extended-release tablets have a
Diclofenac can interact with several other medications.
Different interactions can cause different effects. For instance, some interactions can interfere with how well a drug works. Other interactions can increase side effects or make them more severe. Drug-condition interactions can also cause certain effects. For information about these interactions, see the “Diclofenac precautions” section below.
Diclofenac and other medications
Before taking diclofenac, talk with your doctor and pharmacist. Tell them about all prescription, over-the-counter, and other drugs you take. Also tell them about any vitamins, herbs, and supplements you use. Sharing this information can help you avoid potential interactions.
Below is a table of medications that can interact with diclofenac. This table doesn’t contain all drugs that may interact with diclofenac.
| Medication type or medication name | Medication examples |
| other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs | • naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn) • ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) |
| blood thinners | • warfarin (Jantoven) • apixaban (Eliquis) |
| antiplatelets | • aspirin • clopidogrel (Plavix) |
| selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors | • citalopram (Celexa) • sertraline (Zoloft) |
| serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors | • duloxetine (Cymbalta, Drizalma Sprinkle) • venlafaxine (Effexor ER) |
| angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors | • lisinopril (Zestril) • benazepril (Lotensin) |
| angiotensin type II receptor blockers | • losartan (Cozaar) • valsartan (Diovan) |
| beta-blockers | • metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL, others) • propranolol (Inderal LA, Innopran XL) |
| diuretics (water pills) | • furosemide (Lasix) • hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) |
| voriconazole (Vfend) | — |
| methotrexate (Trexall, others) | — |
| cyclosporine (Gengraf, Neoral, others) | — |
Your doctor or pharmacist can provide you with more information about the interactions between these medications and diclofenac. If you have questions about any drug interactions that may affect you, your doctor or pharmacist can address those as well.
Taking more than the recommended dosage of diclofenac can lead to serious side effects. Do not take more diclofenac than your doctor recommends. (For information on the recommended dosages of diclofenac, see the “Diclofenac dosage” section above.)
Overdose symptoms
Symptoms of an overdose can include:
- feeling more tired than usual
- drowsiness
- nausea and vomiting
- pain in your stomach
In rare cases, overdose symptoms can include coma, kidney failure, dangerously slow breathing, or high blood pressure.
What to do in case of overdose
If you think you’ve taken too much of this drug, call your doctor. You can also call the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222 or use its online tool. However, if your symptoms are severe, call 911 or your local emergency number, or go to the nearest emergency room right away.
As with all medications, the cost of diclofenac can vary. The actual price you’ll pay depends on your insurance plan, your location, and the pharmacy you use.
Keep in mind that you may be able to get a 90-day supply of diclofenac. If approved by your insurance company, getting a 90-day supply of the drug could reduce your number of trips to the pharmacy and help lower the cost. If you’re interested in this option, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance company.
Before approving coverage for diclofenac, your insurance company may require you to get prior authorization. This means that your doctor and insurance company will need to communicate about your prescription before the insurance company will cover the drug. The insurance company will review the prior authorization request and decide if the drug will be covered.
If you’re not sure if you’ll need to get prior authorization for diclofenac, contact your insurance company.
Financial and insurance assistance
Financial assistance to help you pay for diclofenac may be available.
Medicine Assistance Tool and NeedyMeds are two websites offering resources that may help decrease the price you pay for diclofenac. They also offer tools to help you find low cost healthcare, as well as educational resources. To learn more, visit their sites.
Mail-order pharmacies
Diclofenac may be available through a mail-order pharmacy. Using this service may help lower the drug’s cost and allow you to get your medication without leaving home.
If recommended by your doctor, you may be able to receive a 90-day supply of diclofenac, so there’s less concern about running out of the medication. If you’re interested in this option, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance company. Some Medicare plans may help cover the cost of mail-order medications.
If you don’t have insurance, you can ask your doctor or pharmacist about online pharmacy options.
You should take diclofenac according to the instructions your doctor gives you.
Diclofenac comes as tablets that you swallow.
When to take
You can take diclofenac any time of day that works for you. However, taking the medication around the same time of day helps keep a steady level of the drug in your body. This helps diclofenac work effectively.
To help make sure that you don’t miss a dose, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or using a timer. You could also download a reminder app on your phone.
Accessible labels and containers
If your prescription label is hard to read, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. Some pharmacies offer labels that have large print, braille, or a code you scan with a smartphone to convert text to speech. If your local pharmacy doesn’t have these options, your doctor or pharmacist may be able to direct you to one that does.
If you have trouble opening medication bottles, ask your pharmacist if they can put diclofenac in an easy-open container. They also may be able to recommend tools that can make it simpler to open lids.
Taking diclofenac with food
You can take your diclofenac doses with or without food.
Some people may experience certain mild side effects from diclofenac, such as nausea or abdominal pain. If this occurs, taking your doses with a meal or a small snack may help ease your symptoms.
However, if you think your symptoms are severe or a sign of a serious side effect, be sure to contact your doctor. This can include severe digestive problems.*
* Diclofenac delayed-release (DR) tablets and extended-release (ER) tablets have a
Can diclofenac be crushed, split, or chewed?
No, you should not crush, split, or chew diclofenac tablets.
Diclofenac is available in two forms:
- DR tablets
- ER tablets
Both DR and ER tablets are specially designed to slowly release diclofenac at certain times. With DR tablets, the drug releases once it enters your stomach. With ER tablets, the drug releases into your body over time.
Crushing, splitting, or chewing the tablets can cause all of the medication to be released at once. So the drug’s effects may wear off sooner than intended. This could cause your symptoms to worsen or re-appear before your next dose.
If you have trouble swallowing diclofenac tablets, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can suggest some tips to help you swallow pills. They can also discuss whether using another form of diclofenac or a different medication may be better for easing your symptoms.
This drug comes with several precautions. These are considered drug-condition interactions.
FDA warnings
This drug has
Risk of bleeding, holes, and ulcers in your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including diclofenac, increases the risk of GI bleeding, holes, and ulcers (sores). (The GI tract includes your stomach and intestines.) These side effects may occur at any time during your treatment with diclofenac. In rare cases, these side effects can be fatal.
Symptoms of GI bleeding, holes, or ulcers include:
- vomiting blood or vomit that seems similar to coffee grounds
- bloody or dark stool
- a burning feeling in your chest or abdomen
- indigestion
Certain factors can increase your risk of GI bleeding, holes, or ulcers from using an NSAID, such as diclofenac. These include being age 65 years or older, smoking or using tobacco, or drinking alcohol. It also includes using certain other drugs together with diclofenac or taking diclofenac for a long time.
Call your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms of GI bleeding, holes, or ulcers while taking diclofenac. Your doctor will permanently stop your treatment if they confirm diclofenac caused any of these side effects.
Risk of cardiovascular problems. NSAIDs, including diclofenac, may increase the risk of cardiovascular problems. Examples include heart attack and stroke. Cardiovascular problems may occur at any time while you’re taking diclofenac. In rare cases, these problems can be fatal.
Symptoms of heart attack can include:
- chest pain
- pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, arms, or back
- shortness of breath
Symptoms of a stroke can include:
- weakness or numbness on one side of the body or face
- sudden, severe headache
- vision problems, such as blurry vision
If you have symptoms of a heart attack or stroke while you’re taking diclofenac, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number. Or go to the nearest emergency room.
Certain factors may increase your risk for cardiovascular problems with diclofenac treatment. These include having a heart condition, such as heart disease or high blood pressure. It can also include taking diclofenac for a long time or taking a high dose for a long time.
Due to these risks, doctors may avoid prescribing diclofenac if you’ve recently experienced a heart attack or had heart bypass surgery. Your doctor can tell you more about whether diclofenac is safe to take based on your medical history.
Other precautions
In addition to the boxed warnings mentioned above, diclofenac has other warnings.
If any of the following medical conditions or other health factors pertain to you, be sure to talk with your doctor before taking diclofenac:
- if you’re pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant
- if you’re breastfeeding or thinking about breastfeeding
- if you’ve had an allergic reaction to either the drug or any of its ingredients
- if you have asthma
- if you have kidney problems, such as chronic kidney disease
- if you have heart failure
- if you have high blood pressure
- if you have liver problems, such as alcohol-related liver disease
Note: For more information about the potential negative effects of diclofenac, see the “Diclofenac side effects” section above.
When you get diclofenac from the pharmacy, the pharmacist will add an expiration date to the label on the bottle. This date is typically 1 year from the date they dispensed the medication.
The expiration date helps guarantee that the medication is effective during this time. The
Storage
How long a medication remains good can depend on many factors, including how and where you store the medication.
Diclofenac tablets should be stored at a room temperature of 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) in a tightly sealed container away from light. Avoid storing this medication in areas where it could get damp or wet, such as bathrooms.
Disposal
If you no longer need to take diclofenac and have leftover medication, it’s important to dispose of it safely. This helps prevent others, including children and pets, from taking the drug by accident. It also helps keep the drug from harming the environment.
This article provides several useful tips on medication disposal. You can also ask your pharmacist for information about how to dispose of your medication.
Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.