by Drugs.com Ibuprofen is not as potent as diclofenac and is a safer choice for the general public, hence the decision to restrict the availability of diclofenac. If ibuprofen is ineffective then you should see your doctor for something stronger. Both diclofenac and ibuprofen are available in various strengths.
Your doctor may recommend low-dose aspirin to reduce your risk of a heart attack. In the lower dose, aspirin doesn't pose the same health risk as full-strength NSAIDs. These medicines are effective at dulling pain, reducing inflammation, and reducing fevers. When used moderately, they are generally considered safe.
In general, meloxicam is considered a stronger painkiller and requires a prescription from a healthcare provider. On the other hand, ibuprofen is available both over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription for higher-strength products.
Diclofenac has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular and gastrointestinal side effects compared to other NSAIDs such as ibuprofen. This is why it is not available over the counter, or prescribed for children.
The Feb. 12, 2013 study in PLoS Medicine (2013;10:e1001388) indicates that diclofenac use can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke in patients with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol or other high risk factors for cardiovascular problems.
Doctors may be reluctant to prescribe diclofenac for postoperative pain because of historical concerns over the potential risk of harms to the digestive system, kidneys or heart and vascular system.
Diclofenac: What's the difference? With a proven safety profile for 10+ years, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is an effective topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) arthritis pain reliever. Diclofenac is the generic name for the active ingredient in Voltaren Arthritis Pain.
Research shows diclofenac is the strongest and most effective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine available.10 Diclofenec is sold under the prescription brand names Cambia, Cataflam, Zipsor, and Zorvolex. It is also available as a topical gel, Voltaren, which is available over the counter.
Paracetamol appears to be preferred mostly in upper respiratory tract infections compared to the preference of diclofenac rather in painful/inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions.
1. Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids , which are abundant in fatty fish such as salmon or tuna, are among the most potent anti-inflammatory supplements. These supplements may help fight several types of inflammation, including vascular inflammation.
In addition, certain supplements can help provide relief from inflammation and pain. Common alternatives to NSAIDs include arnica, curcumin, and bromelain. Topical pain reliers—like capsaicin cream—may also help to provide relief.
1. FATTY FISH. Fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and tuna give you protein and the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. These components reduce inflammation in the body.
Conclusion: Celecoxib 200 mg daily is as effective as diclofenac 150 mg daily for relieving signs and symptoms of OA of the knee, including pain, and has a rapid onset of action. However, celecoxib appears to have a superior safety and tolerability profile.
Acetaminophen is generally a safe option to try first for many types of pain, including chronic pain. Ask your health care provider for guidance about other medications to avoid while taking acetaminophen. Acetaminophen is not as effective as NSAIDs for the treatment of knee and hip pain related to osteoarthritis.
Depending on why you're taking diclofenac, you may only need to take it for a short time. For example, if you have a sore back or toothache, you may only need to take diclofenac for 1 or 2 days. You may need to take it for longer if you have a long-term condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
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.
Symptoms of a diclofenac sodium overdose include: Diarrhea. Dizziness (common) Drowsiness (common)
We found that both diclofenac and tramadol are equally effective in decreasing the pain associated with AP. There is also no significant difference in the incidence of side effects between both the groups. Hence both diclofenac and tramadol can be used safely and effectively for pain control in AP.
You might be prescribed diclofenac to take only when needed, for example to relieve a migraine. Or, if you have more long-term or ongoing pain, for example because you are recovering from an injury or you have arthritis, your doctor may ask you to take diclofenac every day on a regular basis.
Conclusions Diclofenac poses a cardiovascular health risk compared with non-use, paracetamol use, and use of other traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.