Diclofenac facts for kids

Voltaren (diclofenac) 50 mg coated tablets

Diclofenac is a type of medicine called a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, often shortened to NSAID. It helps to reduce pain and swelling in the body. People often use it to treat things like bruises and muscle strains.

What is Diclofenac?

Diclofenac is a common medicine that helps people feel better when they are in pain or have inflammation. Inflammation is when a part of your body gets red, swollen, and warm, like when you sprain your ankle. Diclofenac works by blocking certain chemicals in the body that cause pain and inflammation.

How Does it Work?

Your body makes natural chemicals that can cause pain and swelling, especially when you get hurt or have an illness. Diclofenac stops these chemicals from working too much. Think of it like turning down the volume on a loud speaker – it quiets down the pain signals and reduces the swelling.

What is it Used For?

Diclofenac is used for many different kinds of pain and inflammation. Some common uses include:

• Muscle and Joint Pain: It's often used for sprains, strains, and other injuries that make muscles or joints hurt and swell.
• Headaches: It can help relieve different types of headaches.
• Period Pain: For some teenagers and adults, it can help with the pain and cramps that happen during periods.
• Other Conditions: Doctors might also prescribe it for other conditions that cause pain and swelling, like some types of arthritis.

Different Forms of Diclofenac

Diclofenac comes in several forms, so people can use it in the way that works best for them:

• Tablets or Capsules: These are pills you swallow. They are a common way to take the medicine.
• Gels or Creams: You can rub these directly onto the skin where you feel pain, like on a sore knee or shoulder. This helps the medicine work right where it's needed.
• Patches: These are sticky patches that you put on your skin. The medicine slowly goes into your body from the patch.

Important Things to Know

Even though Diclofenac is helpful, it's important to use it safely.

• Talk to an Adult: Always talk to a parent, guardian, or doctor before taking any new medicine. They can tell you if it's safe for you and how much to take.
• Follow Instructions: Only take the amount of medicine that is recommended. Taking too much can be harmful.
• Side Effects: Like all medicines, Diclofenac can sometimes have side effects. These are usually mild, like an upset stomach. If you feel unwell after taking it, tell an adult right away.
• Not for Everyone: Diclofenac is not suitable for everyone, especially people with certain health conditions. That's why it's so important to get advice from a healthcare professional.

See also

In Spanish: Diclofenaco para niños