Diclofenac sodium, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID, can relieve the stiffness, inflammation, pain and swelling associated with several different medical conditions. The dosage and usage instructions for diclofenac sodium vary depending upon what the medication is being used to treat. People considering the use of diclofenac sodium should discuss the potential advantages and disadvantages of taking this medication for their condition with a doctor.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease that causes stiffness, pain, swelling and loss of function in the joints. It generally occurs in a symmetrical pattern, and often affects the wrist joints and finger joints closest to the hand.
People using diclofenac sodium to treat rheumatoid arthritis usually take 50mg three to four times a day, 75mg twice a day or 100mg once or twice a day, depending upon the specific brand name of the medication they are using, according to Drugs.com. However, people should always follow the specific dosing instructions of a doctor when taking this medication.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. This condition causes swelling, pain and reduced motion in the joints and usually affects the hands, knees, spine or hip. Osteoarthritis mostly affects cartilage and does not affect skin tissue, the eyes, the lungs or blood vessels, as do other forms of arthritis.
People using diclofenac sodium to treat osteoarthritis generally take 50mg two or three times a day or 75mg twice a day or 100mg once a day, depending upon the specific brand name of the medication they are using, according to Drugs.com. However, people should always follow the specific dosing instructions of a doctor when taking this medication.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that affects the joints between the spinal bones and the joints between the spine and pelvis. According to MedlinePlus, common symptoms include pain and stiffness that are worse at night or during periods of inactivity, pain that gets better with activity or exercise, and back pain that begins in the joints between the pelvis and spine and over time involves all or part of the spine. Some people with this condition lose motion or mobility of the lower spine or lose the ability to expand their chest.
The usual dose of diclofenac sodium for ankylosing spondylitis is 25mg four times a day, with another 25mg at bedtime when necessary. However, people should always follow the specific dosing instructions of a doctor when taking this medication.
Other Uses
Dicolfenac sodium also may be used to treat menstrual cramps and acute migraine attacks, according to MayoClinic.com. Doctors also may prescribe the medication for “off label” use, treating conditions not mentioned in the FDA-approved labeling.
