DICLOFENAC SODIUM (OPHTHALMIC)

Indications/Pharmacology

Diclofenac sodium is a phenylacetic acid that inhibits cyclooxygenase, inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. Diclofenac sodium topical solution reduces inflammation followingcataract extraction in people and counteracts photophobia in humans having refractive corneal surgery. Inveterinary medicine, diclofenac sodium is used for treatment of uveitis following surgery on the eye orother causes of uveitis especially when corneal infection is suspected or in diabetic patients whose insulinregulation could be altered by the systemic uptake of topical corticosteroids. Diclofenac can be combinedwith topical corticosteroids for better control of uveitis in animals when the condition is severe.Suggested Dosages/Precautions/Adverse Effects - Prior to surgery: One drop 4 times at 20 minuteintervals. One drop four times daily following cataract surgery or for the treatment of uveitis. Cautionshould be used when applying any anti-inflammatory agent on the cornea in the face of corneal stromalinfection because of the positive role inflammation plays in the immune response to microbial invasion oftissue. A stinging sensation is noted in 15% of people using this medication.Dosage Forms/Preparations/FDA Approval Status - Veterinary-Approved Products: None
Human-Approved Products: Diclofenac Sodium 0.1% in 2.5, 5 ml; Voltaren® (Ciba Vision); (Rx)
Antiinflammatory Mast Cell Stabilizers