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Key Facts
- Drug Class
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
- Prescription
- Over the counter
- NAFDAC Status
- NAFDAC Registered
- Forms
- Tablet, Injection, Gel/Cream, Suppository
- Price Range
- ₦150 - ₦4,000
- WHO Essential
- Yes
What is Diclofenac?
Diclofenac is a powerful non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is widely used across Nigeria for the treatment of pain, inflammation, and swelling. It is one of the most commonly administered drugs in Nigerian hospitals, clinics, and health centres, particularly in its injectable form. If you have ever visited a hospital in Nigeria for severe pain — whether from back pain, post-surgery discomfort, or a sports injury — there is a good chance you were given a diclofenac injection (commonly referred to as 'Voltaren injection' by many healthcare workers and patients). The drug is known by popular brand names including Voltaren, Clofen, Olfen, and Diclogesic.
Diclofenac works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2), thereby reducing the production of prostaglandins — the chemicals responsible for pain, inflammation, and fever in the body. It is generally considered to be a stronger anti-inflammatory agent than ibuprofen, which is why many Nigerian doctors prefer it for conditions involving significant inflammation such as arthritis, severe back pain, and post-surgical swelling. It is available in multiple forms: oral tablets (including slow-release 'retard' formulations), intramuscular injections, rectal suppositories, and topical gels and creams for localised pain relief.
While diclofenac is available over the counter in oral form at many pharmacies and patent medicine stores in Nigeria, it should be used with caution. Like all NSAIDs, diclofenac carries risks of gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney damage, and cardiovascular complications, especially with prolonged use. The topical gel form (Voltaren gel) is an excellent option for localised muscle and joint pain with fewer systemic side effects, as it is applied directly to the skin over the painful area. Nigerians should be aware that while diclofenac is effective, it is not suitable for everyone and should ideally be used for short periods unless prescribed otherwise by a doctor.
What is Diclofenac used for?
In Nigeria, Diclofenac is commonly used for:
- Back pain — one of the most common reasons Nigerians seek diclofenac, especially those involved in manual labour, driving, or prolonged sitting
- Joint pain and arthritis — both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis respond well to diclofenac
- Post-operative pain management — diclofenac injection is a standard part of post-surgical pain protocols in Nigerian hospitals
- Menstrual pain (dysmenorrhoea) — diclofenac is highly effective for severe period cramps
- Sports injuries — sprains, strains, and soft tissue injuries
- Dental pain — especially after extractions and other dental procedures
- Gout attacks — diclofenac helps reduce the intense inflammation and pain of acute gout
Dosage
IMPORTANT
Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions. The information below is for general reference only.
Adults
Oral: 25mg to 50mg taken 2 to 3 times daily with food. Maximum daily oral dose is 150mg. For slow-release (retard) tablets: 100mg once daily. Injection: 75mg by deep intramuscular injection, maximum of 2 injections (150mg) per day for a maximum of 2 days. Topical gel: Apply a thin layer to the affected area 3-4 times daily and gently rub in.
Children
Diclofenac is generally not recommended for children under 14 years. For adolescents aged 14 and above, the dose is 25mg two to three times daily. Children requiring NSAID therapy should use ibuprofen instead, which has a better established paediatric dosing profile. Always consult a paediatrician.
Elderly
Elderly patients should use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration. Start with 25mg two to three times daily. Elderly individuals are at significantly higher risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney problems, and cardiovascular events from NSAIDs. Regular monitoring of kidney function and blood pressure is advisable.
Always take diclofenac tablets with food or immediately after meals to reduce the risk of stomach irritation. Do not crush or chew slow-release (retard) tablets — swallow them whole. Diclofenac injections should only be administered by trained healthcare workers and should not be used for more than 2 days. When using the topical gel, do not apply to broken skin, wounds, or near the eyes. Do not use diclofenac for more than 7 days without medical advice.
Side Effects
Common side effects
- •Stomach pain, indigestion, and heartburn — common especially when taken without food
- •Nausea, diarrhoea, or constipation
- •Headache and dizziness
- •Pain and hardening at the injection site (for intramuscular injections)
- •Mild skin irritation, redness, or itching at the application site (for topical gel)
Serious side effects — seek medical help immediately
- Gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding — may present as black, tarry stools, blood in vomit, or severe stomach pain. This risk is higher than with ibuprofen
- Kidney damage or kidney failure, especially in dehydrated patients or with prolonged use
- Cardiovascular events — increased risk of heart attack and stroke, particularly with long-term, high-dose use
- Severe liver damage — rare but possible, presenting as jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), dark urine, and fatigue
- Severe allergic reactions including anaphylaxis, facial swelling, and difficulty breathing
- Serious skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome — extremely rare but life-threatening
When to see a doctor
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, severe abdominal pain, chest pain or shortness of breath, sudden severe headache, weakness on one side of the body, yellowing of the skin or eyes, significant swelling of the legs or ankles, or any signs of a severe allergic reaction (swelling of face, lips, or tongue, difficulty breathing, widespread rash). If you notice decreased urination or dark-coloured urine, see a doctor urgently as this may indicate kidney problems.
Warnings & Precautions
Do not take Diclofenac if you have:
- Do not take if you have an active stomach ulcer, gastrointestinal bleeding, or a history of recurrent ulcers
- Do not take if you have severe heart failure or established cardiovascular disease
- Do not take if you have severe kidney or liver disease
- Do not take if you are allergic to diclofenac, aspirin, or other NSAIDs
- Do not use in the third trimester of pregnancy
- Do not administer diclofenac injection to patients with bleeding disorders or those on anticoagulant therapy
- Avoid if you have aspirin-sensitive asthma
Drug interactions
- •Warfarin and other anticoagulants (blood thinners) — diclofenac significantly increases the risk of bleeding
- •Aspirin — combining with diclofenac increases gastrointestinal bleeding risk without additional benefit
- •Other NSAIDs — never take diclofenac with another NSAID such as ibuprofen; this doubles the side effects without doubling the benefit
- •ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and diuretics — diclofenac can reduce their blood pressure-lowering effect and increase the risk of kidney damage, a serious concern for the many Nigerians managing hypertension
- •Methotrexate — diclofenac increases methotrexate toxicity
- •Lithium and digoxin — diclofenac can increase blood levels of these drugs
- •SSRIs (antidepressants like fluoxetine) — combining with diclofenac increases bleeding risk
- •Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone) — increased risk of gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Diclofenac should not be used in the third trimester (last 3 months) of pregnancy as it can cause premature closure of the ductus arteriosus in the baby's heart, reduced amniotic fluid, and delayed labour. In the first and second trimesters, it should only be used if clearly necessary and the benefits outweigh the risks — paracetamol is always the safer option during pregnancy. Small amounts of diclofenac pass into breast milk. Short-term use may be acceptable during breastfeeding, but consult your healthcare provider. For breastfeeding mothers needing regular pain relief, paracetamol or ibuprofen are preferred choices.
NAFDAC-Registered Brands of Diclofenac in Nigeria
4 brands registered with NAFDAC as of 2026-02-01.
| Brand Name | Manufacturer | Strength | Form | NAFDAC Reg. No. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Voltaren | Novartis | 25mg, 50mg, 75mg injection | Tablet | A4-0678 |
| Clofen | Hovid | 50mg | Tablet | A4-5678 |
| Olfen | Mepha | 50mg, 100mg | Tablet | A4-2678 |
| Diclogesic | Emzor | 50mg | Tablet | A4-7890 |
How to Verify Your Diclofenac is Genuine
- 1Verify the NAFDAC registration number printed on the packaging — all legitimate diclofenac products in Nigeria must carry a NAFDAC registration number
- 2Use the NAFDAC online portal or mobile verification app to confirm the authenticity of the product using the registration number or barcode
- 3Buy from licensed pharmacies only — diclofenac injections in particular should only be obtained from registered healthcare facilities
- 4Check the packaging for clear, professional printing with no spelling errors, faded text, or signs of tampering
- 5Ensure the expiry date is clearly printed and the product is within its shelf life
- 6For Voltaren brand products, check for Novartis security features including holographic stickers and tamper-evident packaging
- 7Be especially cautious with injectable forms — counterfeit injections pose serious health risks. Only allow injections from vials with intact seals from trusted sources
Diclofenac Price in Nigeria
Diclofenac prices in Nigeria typically range from ₦150 to ₦4,000 per pack, depending on the brand, strength, and where you buy it.
₦150 – ₦4,000
per pack
Prices vary by location and vendor. Last updated: 2026-02-01
Where to Buy
Purchase Diclofenac only from licensed pharmacies and verified distributors. Avoid buying medicines from unverified sources, roadside vendors, or unregistered market stalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
- •NAFDAC Greenbook — National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control registered products database
- •WHO Model List of Essential Medicines (23rd List, 2023)
- •British National Formulary (BNF)
- •Nigerian Standard Treatment Guidelines