What are the alternative medications for diclofenac sodium?

Diclofenac sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), commonly available in sustained-release tablets, sustained-release capsules, and enteric-coated tablets. It has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Generally speaking, alternative medications to diclofenac sodium include ibuprofen, acetaminophen (paracetamol), loxoprofen sodium, ketoprofen, and nimesulide. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug available in various formulations such as tablets, capsules, granules, and oral solutions. It helps relieve pain, reduce fever, and decrease inflammation. Similar to diclofenac sodium, ibuprofen exerts anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects primarily by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins in the body, thereby reducing inflammatory responses.

2. Acetaminophen (Paracetamol)

Acetaminophen is an antipyretic and analgesic agent, commonly formulated as tablets, granules, and oral solutions. It effectively relieves mild to moderate pain but has relatively weak anti-inflammatory activity. Compared with other drugs, acetaminophen carries lower risks and fewer side effects, making it suitable for general conditions such as headaches, fever due to colds, and muscle aches.

3. Loxoprofen Sodium

Loxoprofen sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug available in tablet and dispersible tablet forms. It possesses anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties, similar to diclofenac sodium. It is commonly used to treat arthritis, musculoskeletal pain, and dysmenorrhea, effectively relieving pain and reducing inflammatory responses.

4. Ketoprofen

Ketoprofen is another nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, available in tablets, capsules, sustained-release tablets, and sustained-release capsules. Its mechanism and effects are similar to those of diclofenac sodium. It is commonly used to alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis, musculoskeletal pain, and dysmenorrhea.

5. Nimesulide

Nimesulide is also a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, available in tablets, capsules, and granules. It demonstrates good efficacy in relieving pain and inflammation. Nimesulide has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet, and antipyretic properties, and is frequently used to manage acute arthritis, musculoskeletal pain, headaches, and fever.

Patients are advised to use medications as prescribed by their healthcare provider. If discomfort or adverse reactions occur, prompt medical attention should be sought. Following standardized treatment under medical supervision can promote recovery.