What Is Diclofenac Sodium Extended-Release Used For?

Diclofenac sodium extended-release is a prescription drug that is helpful in relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as other conditions related to pain, inflammation, swelling, and stiffness. There are also off-label uses of diclofenac sodium extended-release, such as treating symptoms of gout, fibromyalgia, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, or pain associated with cancer.

What Is Diclofenac Sodium Extended-Release Used For? -- An Overview

Diclofenac sodium extended-release (Voltaren®-XR) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to treat several conditions related to pain, inflammation, swelling, and stiffness.
 
Specific uses include the relief of:
 
However, diclofenac sodium extended-release is not a cure for these types of arthritis, nor does it slow down the progression of the disease.
 

How Does It Work?

Diclofenac sodium extended-release and other NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) work by inhibiting the production of certain substances that cause inflammation and pain in the body. These substances are called prostaglandins. By blocking the production of prostaglandins, diclofenac sodium extended-release is useful at alleviating pain, inflammation, and joint swelling associated with different forms of arthritis.
 

Is It Used for Children?

Diclofenac sodium extended-release is not approved for use in children.
 

Are There Off-Label Uses of the Drug?

On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend diclofenac sodium extended-release for something other than the conditions discussed in this article. This is called an "off-label" use. Examples of off-label diclofenac sodium extended-release uses include the relief of:
 
 

Add
Email
Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
Other Articles in This eMedTV Presentation
Referring Pages Articles