Common uses of Diclofenac SR
Diclofenac SR (sustained-release diclofenac sodium) is an NSAID used to reduce pain and inflammation in chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Clinicians often choose the extended-release formulation for once-daily dosing that supports consistent symptom control throughout the day and night. The most common indications include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It may also be used in select cases of chronic back pain, tendinopathies, and other inflammatory conditions where continuous coverage is preferred.
Because sustained-release tablets deliver diclofenac gradually, they are not intended for fast-onset relief of acute pain spikes, post-operative pain, migraines, or dysmenorrhea. For those scenarios, immediate-release options—or a different agent—may be considered. As with all NSAIDs, appropriateness depends on your health profile, other medications, and risk factors for gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, hepatic, and renal complications.
How Diclofenac SR works
Diclofenac inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, reducing prostaglandin production that drives pain, swelling, and stiffness. The “SR” or sustained-release matrix is engineered to slow the drug’s release after ingestion, aiming to maintain steadier blood levels over roughly 24 hours. Compared with immediate-release diclofenac, the SR formulation may smooth peaks and troughs in exposure and reduce the need for multiple daily doses, which can support adherence. Despite formulation differences, the class risks of NSAIDs remain and must be managed thoughtfully.
Dosage and direction for Diclofenac SR
Typical adult regimens for arthritis begin at 100 mg once daily. Some patients may require up to 150–200 mg per day, but higher doses and longer durations increase risk. Many clinicians aim for the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed, with periodic attempts to taper as symptoms permit. Individual needs vary based on diagnosis, severity, age, comorbidities, and concomitant therapies.
Directions for use: take Diclofenac SR with food and a full glass of water to help minimize stomach upset. Swallow tablets whole—do not crush, chew, split, or dissolve, as doing so can release the full dose at once and increase adverse effects. Take at the same time each day to maintain steady levels. Avoid alcohol excess and coordinate NSAID use with your healthcare professional to prevent duplicate therapy. Not generally recommended in pediatric patients.
Precautions before and during treatment
Gastrointestinal risk: All NSAIDs can cause ulcers, bleeding, or perforation, which may occur without warning. Risk rises with prior ulcer or GI bleed, advancing age, higher doses, prolonged use, H. pylori infection, smoking, alcohol, corticosteroids, SSRIs/SNRIs, and anticoagulants/antiplatelets. Consider gastroprotection (for example, a PPI) for high-risk patients and report black stools, vomiting blood, or persistent stomach pain promptly.
Cardiovascular risk: NSAIDs, including diclofenac, may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, which can occur early in treatment and rise with dose and duration. Use caution in patients with cardiovascular disease or risk factors (hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, smoking) and avoid use after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Monitor blood pressure and edema; diclofenac can cause fluid retention and worsen heart failure.
Renal and hepatic considerations: NSAIDs may reduce renal blood flow, leading to kidney injury, especially in dehydration, older age, pre-existing renal disease, or when combined with ACE inhibitors/ARBs and diuretics. Monitor renal function periodically. Diclofenac can elevate liver enzymes and rarely cause severe hepatotoxicity; check liver function at baseline and during therapy if clinically indicated. Discontinue if signs of liver injury emerge (fatigue, pruritus, dark urine, jaundice, right upper quadrant pain).
Respiratory, dermatologic, and other cautions: In aspirin-sensitive asthma or chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, NSAIDs may precipitate bronchospasm—avoid use. Stop immediately and seek care if serious skin reactions occur (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome), or if anaphylaxis symptoms appear. NSAIDs may impair fertility by affecting ovulation; consider alternatives when attempting conception. During pregnancy, avoid NSAIDs from 20 weeks onward when possible due to fetal renal effects and oligohydramnios, and do not use in the third trimester because of the risk of premature closure of the ductus arteriosus. Use caution during lactation.
Contraindications to Diclofenac SR
Do not use Diclofenac SR if you have: a history of hypersensitivity to diclofenac or any component of the formulation; asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after aspirin or other NSAIDs; in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft surgery; active gastrointestinal bleeding or peptic ulcer disease; severe, uncontrolled heart failure; or significant renal or hepatic impairment in which NSAIDs are contraindicated. Avoid in late pregnancy (third trimester). Clinicians weigh risks and benefits carefully in inflammatory bowel disease or bleeding disorders.
Possible side effects of sustained-release diclofenac
Common adverse effects include dyspepsia, heartburn, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea or constipation, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, edema, and elevated blood pressure. Some patients may experience photosensitivity or mild rash. Lab monitoring can reveal transient elevations in liver enzymes or changes in kidney function, prompting dose adjustments or discontinuation.
Serious reactions, although less frequent, require urgent evaluation: gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcer (black stools, vomiting blood, severe epigastric pain); myocardial infarction or stroke (chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side, slurred speech); severe hypertension, fluid overload, or new/worsening heart failure; renal failure (marked decrease in urine, swelling, fatigue); hepatotoxicity (jaundice, dark urine, right upper quadrant pain); anaphylaxis (wheezing, facial or throat swelling, hives); and severe skin reactions (blistering, peeling, mucosal lesions). Stop the medication and seek immediate care if any of these occur.
Drug interactions to know before you buy Diclofenac SR
Bleeding risk: Combining Diclofenac SR with anticoagulants (warfarin, DOACs), antiplatelets (aspirin, clopidogrel), SSRIs/SNRIs, or corticosteroids increases GI bleed risk. If low-dose aspirin is indicated for cardioprotection, clinicians may choose gastroprotection and close monitoring.
Renal and blood pressure effects: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and diuretics used with NSAIDs may diminish renal function and blunt antihypertensive effects, particularly in dehydrated or older patients. Monitor kidney function and blood pressure. Avoid concurrent nephrotoxins (e.g., aminoglycosides) when possible.
Drug level elevations: NSAIDs can raise serum lithium and methotrexate levels, increasing toxicity risk—monitor closely or consider alternatives. Calcineurin inhibitors (cyclosporine, tacrolimus) plus NSAIDs may heighten nephrotoxicity; use great caution and monitor renal function.
Other considerations: Avoid combining with other NSAIDs or high-dose salicylates to prevent additive toxicity. Alcohol increases GI risk. Cholestyramine may alter diclofenac absorption; dosing separation can help. Strong CYP2C9 inhibitors/inducers may affect diclofenac exposure; clinicians adjust based on clinical response and safety.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose of Diclofenac SR, take it when you remember unless it is close to the time for your next dose. If it is near the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double up to make up for a missed tablet.
Overdose
Overdose may cause severe stomach pain, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, hypotension, renal failure, respiratory depression, or seizures, and can lead to GI bleeding. If an overdose is suspected, call your local emergency number or Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222 in the U.S. for immediate guidance. Supportive care in a medical setting is often required; do not attempt to induce vomiting unless directed by a medical professional.
Storage
Store Diclofenac SR at room temperature (generally 20–25°C/68–77°F) in a dry place away from heat and light. Keep in the original, child-resistant container and out of reach of children and pets. Do not store in bathrooms. Dispose of unused tablets through a medicine take-back program; do not flush unless specifically instructed.
U.S. sale and prescription policy: a structured path with HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Las Vegas
Diclofenac SR is a prescription-only NSAID in the United States. HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Las Vegas offers a legal and structured pathway to obtain Diclofenac SR without a formal prescription from your own doctor visit by facilitating an online intake reviewed by a licensed clinician. When appropriate, an affiliated prescriber issues a prescription based on your medical history, medication list, and eligibility; if it is not appropriate, you will not be supplied and may be referred for in-person care. Availability may vary by state and patient age.
This streamlined model preserves safety standards—verification, counseling, and pharmacovigilance—while saving time. You receive transparent pricing, discreet delivery, and access to pharmacist support. Always use Diclofenac SR exactly as directed, and promptly report side effects or changes in your health status.
