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The Daily Insight

What is the structure of diclofenac?

Author

Michael Gray

Updated on April 02, 2026

C14H11Cl2NO2
Diclofenac/Formula

What functional groups are present in diclofenac?

Diclofenac has a carboxylic acid functional group and is rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration.

What is the mechanism of action of diclofenac?

As with all NSAIDs, diclofenac exerts its action via inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis by inhibiting cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) with relative equipotency.

How does diclofenac work using Adme?

Diclofenac is a phenylacetic acid derivative and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). NSAIDs inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and-2 which are the enzyme responsible for producing prostaglandins (PGs). PGs contribute to inflammation and pain signalling.

How is diclofenac metabolized?

Diclofenac is eliminated through metabolism and subsequent urinary and biliary excretion of the glucuronide and the sulfate conjugates of the metabolites. Little or no free unchanged diclofenac is excreted in the urine.

Is diclofenac selective or nonselective?

Conventional NSAIDs, like diclofenac, ibuprofen, and naproxen, are non-selective COX inhibitors, blocking the production of both physiologic and inflammatory prostaglandins.

Is diclofenac a vasodilator?

The GI toxicity of this agent is dependent on high diclofenac levels in the systemic circulation [58]. PGI2, a major product of COX-2—mediated metabolism of arachidonic acid in vascular endothelial cells, serves a physiologic function as a potent vasodilator and platelet inhibitor [62].

What is the role of diclofenac?

Diclofenac is used to relieve pain, swelling (inflammation), and joint stiffness caused by arthritis. Reducing these symptoms helps you do more of your normal daily activities.

Is diclofenac a non selective Nsaid?

What enzymes are inhibited by diclofenac?

Mechanism of Action Diclofenac belongs to a group of NSAIDs that inhibit both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes.

What is the action of dicyclomine?

Dicyclomine is used to treat a certain type of intestinal problem called irritable bowel syndrome. It helps to reduce the symptoms of stomach and intestinal cramping. This medication works by slowing the natural movements of the gut and by relaxing the muscles in the stomach and intestines.

What is the physiologic effect of diclofenac?

The physiologic effect of diclofenac is by means of Decreased Prostaglandin Production. The chemical classification of diclofenac is Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Compounds. Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal benzeneacetic acid derivative with anti-inflammatory activity.

What is the partition coefficient of diclofenac sodium?

The result was diclofenac sodium, which has an acidity constant of 4.0 and a partition coefficient of 13.4. The structural elements include a phenylacetic acid group, a secondary amino group, and a phenyl ring containing chlorine atoms, which cause maximum twisting of the ring.

What are the side effects of oral diclofenac?

Headache or dizziness has been reported in up to 10% of patients receiving oral diclofenac. Anxiety, asthenia, confusion, depression, abnormal dreams, drowsiness, insomnia, malaise, nervousness, paresthesia, somnolence, tremors, irritability, and vertigo have occurred occasionally in patients receiving the drug.

How effective is diclofenac against COX-2?

When inhibiting COX-2, diclofenac may be effective in relieving pain and inflammation; when inhibiting COX-1, it may produce unacceptable gastrointestinal side effects. This agent may be more active against COX-2 than several other carboxylic acid-containing NSAIDs. (NCI04)