Name:  Diclofenac sodium

Synonyms:  2-[(2,6-Dichlorophenyl)amino]benzeneacetic acid sodium salt

Molecular Structure:  

Molecular Formula:  C₁₄H₁₀C_l2NNaO₂

Molecular Weight:  318.13

CAS Number:  15307-79-6

EINECS:  239-346-4

 

Diclofenac sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat minor aches and pains associated with the common cold, headache, muscle aches, backache, and arthritis. Diclofenac Sodium may also be used to reduce fever. Diclofenac Sodium works by blocking the enzyme in your body that makes prostaglandins. Decreasing prostaglandins helps to reduce pain, swelling, and fever.

Diclofenac, as the sodium or potassium salt, is a faintly yellowish white to light beige, virtually odorless, slightly hygroscopic crystalline powder. Diclofenac sodium is freely soluble in methanol, sparingly soluble in water, very slightly soluble in acetonitrile, and insoluble in chloroform and in 0.1N hydrochloric acid.

Diclofenac sodium is a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) that has been used in 120 countries since its introduction in Japan in 1974. Diclofenac sodium is currently the eighth largest-selling drug and the most frequently used NSAID in the world. Diclofenac, a phenylacetic acid derivative, is a potent inhibitor of cyclooxygenase enzyme activity, and may also interact with the lipoxygenase enzyme pathway, and with the release and reuptake of arachidonic acid. Diclofenac is almost completely absorbed, highly protein-bound, penetrates well into synovial fluid, and is extensively metabolized.

Diclofenac works by blocking the action of a substance in the body called cyclo-oxygenase. Cyclo-oxygenase is involved in the production of various chemicals in the body, some of which are known as prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are produced in response to injury or certain diseases and would otherwise go on to cause pain, swelling and inflammation. Diclofenac is therefore used to relieve pain and inflammation.