Diclofenac is a prescription anti‑inflammatory drug that many people use for joint pain, muscle aches, or after surgery. It belongs to the NSAID family, which means it blocks chemicals in your body that cause swelling and hurt.
The medicine comes as tablets, gels, patches, and even eye drops. Most doctors prescribe it when over‑the‑counter options like ibuprofen aren’t enough. If you’ve been told to take Diclofenac, you probably have a clear reason – arthritis, back pain, or a sports injury.
Typical doses depend on the form you get. For tablets, adults usually start with 50 mg two or three times a day, never exceeding 150 mg in 24 hours. The gel is spread on the painful area once or twice daily, and the patch sticks to the skin for up to 12‑hour periods. Always follow your doctor’s exact instructions; they know what works best for you.
Taking Diclofenac safely means a few simple habits. Take it with food or milk to keep stomach upset at bay. Don’t crush or chew extended‑release tablets – that can release too much drug at once. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next one; then just skip the missed pill.
Watch your stomach. NSAIDs can irritate the lining, so if you have ulcers or a history of bleeding, tell your doctor right away. Some people need a protective medicine like a proton‑pump inhibitor alongside Diclofenac.
Avoid alcohol while on this drug; it raises the risk of stomach bleeding. Also, stay clear of other NSAIDs (aspirin, naproxen) unless a health professional says it’s okay – mixing them can double up side effects.
If you need a refill or can’t get to a pharmacy in person, look for reputable online pharmacies that require a valid prescription. Check for a US‑based pharmacist review, clear contact info, and secure payment methods. Sites that display a verified pharmacy seal are usually safer.
Never buy Diclofenac from sites that promise it without any paperwork or that push extremely low prices. Those often sell fake pills or the wrong dosage, which can be dangerous. A trustworthy online pharmacy will ask for your prescription details and may even call your doctor to confirm.
To sum up, Diclofenac works well for many types of pain when you use it as directed, watch for stomach issues, avoid alcohol, and choose a legit online source if you need one. Keep this quick checklist handy: take with food, stay under the daily max dose, monitor for gut upset, and verify any web pharmacy before you order.