What are Diclofenac Tablets?
Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). This medicine works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation. Diclofenac works by blocking the effect of chemicals in your body, called cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes.
There are two forms of diclofenac - diclofenac sodium and diclofenac potassium. The main difference between the two is that diclofenac potassium is absorbed into the body more quickly than diclofenac sodium.
These enzymes help to make other chemicals in the body, called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are produced at sites of injury or damage, and cause pain and inflammation. By blocking the effect of COX enzymes, fewer prostaglandins are produced, which means pain and inflammation are eased.
Diclofenac is not a suitable medicine for people who have heart disease (such as heart failure), or who have circulatory problems, or who have had a heart attack or a stroke. This is because it has been found that there is a small increased risk of heart attack and stroke in this group of people. Other anti-inflammatory medicines are more suitable for people with these conditions - ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice about an alternative medicine.
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