Diclofenac contain the active ingredient diclofenac sodium, which is a type of medicine called a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). NSAIDs are used to relieve pain and inflammation. (NB. Diclofenac is also available without a brand name, ie as the generic medicine.)
Diclofenac works by blocking the action of a substance in the body called cyclo-oxygenase (COX). Cyclo-oxygenase is involved in the production of various chemicals in the body, some of which are known as prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are produced by the body in response to injury and certain diseases and conditions, and cause pain, swelling and inflammation. Diclofenac blocks the production of these prostaglandins and is therefore effective at reducing inflammation and pain.
Diclofenac is used to relieve pain and inflammation in a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including various forms of arthritis, gout, sprains, fractures, dislocations, back pain, tendinitis and frozen shoulder. It is also used to relieve pain and inflammation following dental, orthopaedic (bone) and other minor surgery.
Defanac e/c tablets have a special 'enteric coating' that is designed to prevent the absorption of the diclofenac in the stomach, and thus reduce the risk of stomach irritation. The diclofenac is absorbed when the tablet reaches the intestine. The tablets should be swallowed whole to avoid damaging this coating.
Defanac Retard tablets are sustained-release tablets. They contain a higher dose of diclofenac and are designed to release this slowly and continuously over a few hours. This provides more prolonged pain relief, so the tablets are taken less frequently. These tablets must also be swallowed whole to avoid damaging the sustained-release action.
Both types of tablet should preferably be taken with food to help avoid irritating the stomach.
