Aceclofenac is a potent, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) of the phenylacetic acid class, widely prescribed in India for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. It is a preferential COX-2 inhibitor, offering effective relief from pain and inflammation with a potentially improved gastrointestinal tolerability profile compared to some traditional NSAIDs. It is a first-line agent for various musculoskeletal and arthritic conditions.
Adult: 100 mg to 200 mg per day, administered in two divided doses (e.g., 100 mg twice daily). The usual recommended dose is 100 mg twice daily.
Note: Should be taken with or immediately after food with a full glass of water to minimize gastric irritation. Do not crush or chew the tablet unless it is a dispersible formulation. The tablet should be swallowed whole.
Aceclofenac exerts its therapeutic effects primarily by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), thereby blocking the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins (PGs), thromboxanes, and prostacyclins. Prostaglandins are key mediators of pain, inflammation, and fever.
Pregnancy: Category C (1st & 2nd trimesters): Use only if potential benefit justifies potential fetal risk. Avoid use in 3rd trimester (Category D) due to risk of premature closure of ductus arteriosus, oligohydramnios, and prolonged labor.
Driving: May cause dizziness, vertigo, fatigue, or visual disturbances. Patients should be cautioned about operating machinery or driving until they are sure the medication does not affect them adversely.
| Anticoagulants (Warfarin, Acenocoumarol) | Increased risk of bleeding due to antiplatelet effect and protein binding displacement. | Major |
| Anti-platelets (Aspirin, Clopidogrel) | Additive risk of GI bleeding. | Major |
| Other NSAIDs (including topical) or Corticosteroids (Prednisolone) | Increased risk of GI ulceration and bleeding. | Major |
| ACE Inhibitors (Ramipril, Enalapril) / ARBs (Losartan) | Reduced antihypertensive effect; increased risk of renal impairment. | Moderate |
| Diuretics (Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide) | Reduced diuretic and antihypertensive efficacy; risk of renal failure. | Moderate |
| Lithium | Increased lithium plasma levels and risk of toxicity. | Major |
| Methotrexate | Increased methotrexate plasma levels and risk of hematologic/renal toxicity. | Major |
| Cyclosporine, Tacrolimus | Increased risk of nephrotoxicity. | Major |
| Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) e.g., Sertraline | Increased risk of upper GI bleeding. | Moderate |
| Antidiabetics (Sulfonylureas like Glimepiride) | Potential for hypoglycemia. | Moderate |
Same composition (Aceclofenac (200mg)), different brands: