Dosage of Olfen 75mg SR Prolonged-Release Tablets

Olfen 75mg SR Tablets is a Prescription Only Medicine (POM).

Take as directed by the pharmacist or physician.

The usual daily dosage is one 75 mg prolonged-release tablet once or twice daily. For long-term treatment and chronic pain, one tablet (75 mg) taken once a day (often in the evening to combat morning stiffness) is usually sufficient.

Proper Administration

• Route: Oral tablet (Sustained Release - SR).
• How to Take: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of milk or water. Do NOT crush, break, or chew the prolonged-release tablet, as this destroys the sustained-release mechanism and can lead to a dangerous overdose.
• Timing: Typically taken once daily (morning or evening). Taking it with food or milk helps minimize stomach irritation. Taking it in the evening helps with night pain and morning stiffness.

Missed Dose Guidance

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
• If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose (e.g., within 10-12 hours), skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose.

Contraindications of Olfen 75mg SR Prolonged-Release Tablets

Do NOT take Olfen 75mg SR Tablets if you:

• Have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Diclofenac or any other NSAID (e.g., Aspirin, Ibuprofen).
• Have a history of experiencing asthma, hives, or acute rhinitis (allergic reactions) after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs.
• Have active or recurrent peptic ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, or perforation of the stomach or intestines.
• Have severe heart failure (NYHA III-IV), established ischaemic heart disease, peripheral arterial disease, or cerebrovascular disease.
• Are taking it for pain immediately before or after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery.
• Have severe kidney impairment (renal failure) or severe liver failure.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warnings

• Pregnancy: Consult your doctor. This medication is CONTRAINDICATED in the last three months of pregnancy as it can harm the unborn baby's heart and kidneys. Use during the first two trimesters should only be on strict medical advice.
• Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor. Diclofenac passes into breast milk in small amounts. Use is generally avoided or used only under caution and supervision.

Side Effects of Olfen 75mg SR Prolonged-Release Tablets

Side effects can be serious, particularly with long-term use.

• Common Side Effects (Mild and Expected): Gastrointestinal upset, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, indigestion, headache, dizziness, and mild skin rash.
• Serious but Rare Side Effects (that may require medical attention):
  • Cardiovascular Events: Increased risk of heart attack (Myocardial Infarction) or stroke, especially with high doses or long-term use. Symptoms include chest pain, sudden weakness, or slurred speech.
  • Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Black, tarry stools, vomiting blood (looks like coffee grounds), or severe, persistent stomach pain.
  • Severe Allergic/Skin Reactions: Severe rash, blistering, peeling (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), swelling of the face/mouth, or difficulty breathing.
  • Kidney/Liver Problems: Swelling (oedema), unusual tiredness, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin/eyes (jaundice).

What to do if side effects occur:

• If you notice signs of stomach bleeding, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or any severe rash, stop the medication immediately and seek emergency medical attention.
• For mild stomach upset, take the tablet with food or milk.

Precautions and Warnings of Olfen 75mg SR Prolonged-Release Tablets

• Cardiovascular Risk: Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration to minimize the risk of serious cardiovascular events. If treatment lasts longer than 4 weeks, do not exceed 100 mg per day.
• Gastrointestinal Risk: This medication increases the risk of GI bleeding and ulcers. Your doctor may prescribe a stomach-protectant medicine (e.g., a PPI) if you have a history of stomach problems or require long-term treatment.
• Drug Interactions: Do NOT take with other NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Aspirin). Inform your doctor if you are taking blood thinners (Warfarin), certain antidepressants (SSRIs), or diuretics.
• Fluid Retention: Use with caution if you have hypertension (high blood pressure) or fluid retention, as NSAIDs can worsen these conditions.
• Driving: Very occasionally, this medicine may cause dizziness or visual disturbances. Do not drive or operate machinery if affected.

The active ingredient is Diclofenac Sodium (75 mg). It is supplied as a prolonged-release (SR) oral tablet (Depotabs), typically in blister packs. It is a Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID) and is a Prescription Only Medicine (POM).