Sandoz Diclac Retard 100mg Tablet

Sandoz Diclac Retard 100mg Tablet contains diclofenac sodium, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), formulated as a sustained-release (retard) tablet that releases the medicine gradually over the day. It is used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and acute musculoskeletal pain, including back pain.

As a higher-strength, sustained-release NSAID formulation, Sandoz Diclac Retard 100mg Tablet is a prescription-only medicine. It requires a doctor’s assessment through an online consultation with DoctorOnCall before it can be dispensed, along with periodic follow-up, given the recognised gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and kidney risks associated with NSAID use, especially at higher doses or over longer periods.

Diclofenac works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes, which reduces the production of prostaglandins — chemical messengers in the body responsible for producing pain, inflammation, and fever. By lowering prostaglandin levels at the site of injury or joint inflammation, diclofenac reduces swelling, stiffness, and pain.

Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water; do not crush, chew, or split it, as this is a sustained-release formulation designed to release the medicine slowly over the day. Taking it with or after food can help reduce stomach upset, and it should be taken at around the same time each day as prescribed by your doctor.

Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose based on your condition, which is typically once daily for the retard formulation, and will advise the lowest effective dose for the shortest period needed to control your symptoms. Do not exceed the prescribed dose or take it more frequently than directed.

Unopened and stored correctly, Sandoz Diclac Retard 100mg Tablet is generally stable until the expiry date printed on the packaging. Do not use the tablets after this date, and check with your pharmacist if the strip or blister packaging appears damaged.

Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture, in the original packaging. Keep out of the sight and reach of children at all times.

• Active peptic ulcer or history of gastrointestinal bleeding related to NSAID use
• Severe heart failure
• Severe kidney or liver impairment
• Third trimester of pregnancy
• Known hypersensitivity to diclofenac, aspirin, or other NSAIDs, including a history of NSAID-induced asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions

• Other NSAIDs or aspirin — increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and should generally be avoided together
• Blood-thinning medicines such as warfarin — increased bleeding risk
• Blood pressure medicines and diuretics — reduced effectiveness and increased risk to the kidneys
• Lithium and methotrexate — diclofenac can raise blood levels of these medicines
• SSRIs (a class of antidepressants) — increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding when combined with an NSAID
• Corticosteroids — increased risk of stomach ulcers or bleeding when taken together

• Take with food to help reduce stomach irritation
• Do not combine with other NSAIDs, including over-the-counter pain relievers, without your doctor’s advice
• Report black or tarry stools, severe stomach pain, or unusual bruising to your doctor immediately
• Have your blood pressure and kidney function reviewed periodically if you are on long-term treatment
• Limit alcohol intake, as it can increase the risk of stomach irritation

As a prescription-only, higher-strength NSAID, long-term use of Sandoz Diclac Retard 100mg Tablet should be periodically reviewed by your doctor, including checks on blood pressure, kidney function, and gastrointestinal symptoms. It is not recommended during the third trimester of pregnancy, and elderly patients or those with existing heart, kidney, or liver conditions may need closer monitoring while taking this medicine.