Diclofenamide
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Diclofenamide is used to treat glaucoma, which is a condition that increases pressure in the eye. It helps lower eye pressure to prevent damage to the optic nerve and preserve vision. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.
Diclofenamide works by inhibiting an enzyme called carbonic anhydrase, which is involved in fluid production in the eye. By reducing this fluid, it lowers eye pressure, helping to prevent damage to the optic nerve and preserve vision.
The usual starting dose of diclofenamide for adults is 50 mg taken twice daily, with or without food. The maximum recommended dose is 200 mg per day. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs.
Common side effects of diclofenamide include nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. These effects are usually mild and temporary. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor for advice.
Diclofenamide can cause electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium levels, which is called hypokalemia. It shouldn't be used by people with severe kidney problems or a history of metabolic acidosis, which is a condition where your blood becomes too acidic.
Indications and Purpose
How does diclofenamide work?
Diclofenamide works by inhibiting an enzyme called carbonic anhydrase, which is involved in the production of fluid in the eye. By reducing this fluid production, diclofenamide lowers eye pressure. Think of it like turning down a faucet to reduce water flow. This helps prevent damage to the optic nerve and preserves vision in people with glaucoma. Diclofenamide is effective in managing eye pressure and preventing vision loss.
Is diclofenamide effective?
Diclofenamide is effective for treating glaucoma, which is a condition that increases pressure in the eye. It works by reducing the production of fluid in the eye, which lowers eye pressure. Clinical studies show diclofenamide significantly reduces eye pressure in patients with glaucoma. This helps prevent damage to the optic nerve and preserves vision. Always follow your doctor's instructions to ensure the medication works effectively for your condition.
What is diclofenamide?
Diclofenamide is a medication used to treat glaucoma, which is a condition that increases pressure in the eye. It belongs to a class of drugs called carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, which work by reducing the production of fluid in the eye, thereby lowering eye pressure. This helps prevent damage to the optic nerve and preserves vision. Diclofenamide is usually used in combination with other therapies to effectively manage glaucoma.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take diclofenamide?
Diclofenamide is usually a long-term medication for managing glaucoma, which is a condition that increases pressure in the eye. You'll typically take diclofenamide every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your condition to worsen. How long you'll need this medication depends on your body's response, any side effects you experience, and changes in your overall health.
How do I dispose of diclofenamide?
If you can, bring unused diclofenamide to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of this medicine properly so it doesn't harm people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw most medicines in the trash at home. But first, take them out of their original containers, mix them with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take diclofenamide?
Take diclofenamide exactly as your doctor prescribes. It's usually taken twice daily, with or without food. You can swallow the tablets whole; do not crush or chew them. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Avoid taking two doses at once. Always follow your doctor's specific advice about diet and fluid intake while taking this medication.
How long does it take for diclofenamide to start working?
Diclofenamide begins working in your body shortly after you take it, but it may take a few days to notice a decrease in eye pressure. The full therapeutic effect can take several weeks. How quickly the medication works can depend on your overall health and how your body responds to the treatment. Regular check-ups with your doctor are important to monitor your progress and ensure the medication is working effectively.
How should I store diclofenamide?
Store diclofenamide at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep the medication in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Don't store your medicine in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture in the air could affect how well the medication works. Always store diclofenamide out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing. Check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of diclofenamide?
The usual starting dose of diclofenamide for adults is 50 mg twice daily. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response and any side effects. The maximum recommended dose is 200 mg per day. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your personal health needs. Special populations, such as the elderly, may require dose adjustments.
Warnings and Precautions
Can diclofenamide be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Diclofenamide is not recommended while breastfeeding. We don't have much information about whether this medication passes into human breast milk. While we don't have specific reports of harm to breastfed babies from diclofenamide, we can't rule out potential risks. If you're taking diclofenamide and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely.
Can diclofenamide be taken safely while pregnant?
Diclofenamide isn't recommended during pregnancy. We don't have much information about its safety in pregnant women. However, untreated glaucoma during pregnancy can cause serious problems for both mother and baby. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your condition during this important time. Your doctor can help create a pregnancy-specific treatment plan that protects both you and your baby.
Can I take diclofenamide with other prescription drugs?
Diclofenamide can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects. For example, it can interact with other diuretics, which are medications that help remove excess fluid from the body, leading to electrolyte imbalances. It can also interact with aspirin, increasing the risk of kidney problems. Always tell your doctor about all the medications you take to avoid potential interactions and ensure your treatment is safe and effective.
Does diclofenamide have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Diclofenamide can cause side effects like nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. These effects are usually mild and temporary. More serious adverse effects include electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium levels, which can lead to muscle weakness or heart problems. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor. Regular monitoring and blood tests can help manage and prevent serious adverse effects.
Does diclofenamide have any safety warnings?
Yes, diclofenamide has important safety warnings. It can cause electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium levels, which is called hypokalemia. This can lead to muscle weakness or heart problems. Regular blood tests are needed to monitor your electrolytes. Diclofenamide can also cause metabolic acidosis, which is a condition where your blood becomes too acidic. If you experience symptoms like fatigue, confusion, or rapid breathing, contact your doctor immediately. Always follow your doctor's advice and attend regular check-ups.
Is diclofenamide addictive?
Diclofenamide is not addictive or habit-forming. This medication doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Diclofenamide works by affecting your body's fluid and electrolyte balance, not brain chemistry, so it doesn't lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that diclofenamide doesn't carry this risk.
Is diclofenamide safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals are more vulnerable to safety risks with medications like diclofenamide. This is because they may have decreased kidney function, which can affect how the body processes the drug. Diclofenamide can cause electrolyte imbalances, which are more common in older adults. Regular monitoring and blood tests are important to ensure safety. Always consult your doctor about any concerns and follow their advice closely.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking diclofenamide?
It's best to avoid alcohol while taking diclofenamide. Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness or low blood pressure. Alcohol can also cause dehydration, which means your body doesn't have enough fluids. If you do choose to drink occasionally, limit how much alcohol you consume and watch for warning signs like dizziness or lightheadedness. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking diclofenamide to get personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking diclofenamide?
You can exercise while taking diclofenamide, but keep a few things in mind. This medication can cause dehydration, which means your body doesn't have enough fluids. This might make you feel dizzy or lightheaded during exercise, especially in hot weather. To exercise safely, drink plenty of water before, during, and after physical activity. Watch for signs of dizziness or unusual fatigue. If you notice these symptoms, slow down or stop exercising and rest.
Is it safe to stop diclofenamide?
Stopping diclofenamide suddenly can cause your condition to worsen. If you're taking it for glaucoma, your eye pressure might increase quickly when you stop. Always talk with your doctor before stopping diclofenamide. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control. Your doctor will help you make any medication changes safely to protect your health.
What are the most common side effects of diclofenamide?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of diclofenamide include nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. These effects vary from person to person and are usually mild. If you notice new symptoms after starting diclofenamide, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication. Your doctor can help determine if your symptoms are related to diclofenamide or another cause.
Who should avoid taking diclofenamide?
Don't take diclofenamide if you're allergic to it or its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions, which cause rash, hives, or swelling that makes breathing difficult, require immediate medical help. Diclofenamide shouldn't be used by people with severe kidney problems, as it can worsen kidney function. Avoid this medication if you have a history of metabolic acidosis, which is a condition where your blood becomes too acidic. Always consult your doctor about these concerns.
