NB: Advise patient not to exceed the recommended daily dose (maximum of 150 mg).
Diclofenac is contra-indicated in ischaemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, peripheral arterial disease and mild to severe heart failure. It should be used with caution in patients with a history of cardiac failure, left ventricular disfunction, hypertension, in patients with oedema for any other reason, and in patients with other risk factors for cardiovascular events. Avoid use in those with a hypersensitivity to aspirin or any other NSAID, including those in whom attacks of asthma, angioedema, urticaria or rhinitis have been precipitated by aspirin or any other NSAID. Do not prescribe for patients taking a low dose of aspirin daily. Avoid use in pregnant patients and avoid in those with previous or active peptic ulcer disease, unless a proton pump inhibitor is co-prescribed, and use with caution in the elderly, patients with allergic disorders, nursing mothers, those taking oral anticoagulants such as warfarin, those with coagulation defects, those with an inherited bleeding disorder, and those with renal, cardiac or hepatic impairment.
Diclofenac tablets are enteric coated and should be swallowed whole, not chewed or crushed.
‡Diclofenac tablets of >25 mg are not licensed for use in children.
See Contraindications & cautions - analgesics for further information about the contraindications and cautions most relevant to analgesics commonly prescribed for odontogenic pain.