Uno

Quick links to important sections

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Uno

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Diclofenac (Sodium or Potassium salt)
Form Tablet, Capsule, Gel, Solution, Injectable
Pharmacological class Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
General purpose Alleviating pain and reducing inflammation
Origin Synthetic compound (Phenylacetic acid derivative)

Uno: Definition, Active Ingredient, and Drug Class

Uno is a widely recognized medicinal preparation identified by its active ingredient, Diclofenac, which is chemically defined as a phenylacetic acid derivative. This compound is definitively classified as a Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID). Diclofenac is synthesized to produce a highly effective inhibitor of the cyclooxygenase enzymes, a mechanism of action that has been consistently supported by pharmacological studies. The specific formulation of Uno, often utilizing the sodium salt or potassium salt of Diclofenac, allows for differentiation in absorption rates, a key factor in pharmaceutical design.

The General Purpose and Physiological Action of Uno

The general purpose of Uno centers on providing systematic analgesic (pain-relieving) and anti-inflammatory effects throughout the body. The fundamental physiological action involves inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are chemical messengers responsible for signaling and maintaining pain, inflammation, and fever. Diclofenac is clinically recognized for its potent anti-inflammatory properties and its reliable action in reducing body-wide inflammation. This core mechanism, acting as a cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor, establishes its utility as a primary agent against typical scenarios of acute discomfort and inflammatory pain.

Pharmaceutical Forms and Preparation Type

Uno is a single-ingredient product available across a comprehensive range of dosage forms, facilitating various routes of administration, distinguishing it from multi-component pain relievers. These preparations include oral tablets and capsules (including delayed-release forms), topical gels and solutions, and sterile injectable preparations for parenteral use. The Diclofenac component in these forms is delivered using inert excipients and specific bases (e.g., hydrogel or cream for topical applications) engineered for optimal absorption, ensuring the active ingredient reaches the target site efficiently to achieve its intended therapeutic effect.

Regulatory References

  1. WHO Model Lists of Essential Medicines

What side effects are possible with Uno?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety profile for Uno, which contains the active ingredient Diclofenac, is structured by regulatory bodies to communicate risks based on frequency, affected organ systems, and specific patient factors. The safety information emphasizes potential life-threatening risks to the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and hepatobiliary systems.

Adverse Reaction Classifications

Side effects are categorized based on their rate of occurrence as documented in official prescribing information:

  • Common Reactions: These include gastrointestinal effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dyspepsia, and abdominal pain. Neurological effects like headache and dizziness, as well as an increase in liver transaminases, are also frequently observed.
  • Rare and Very Rare Reactions: Less common but clinically significant documented reactions include hypersensitivity and anaphylactic/anaphylactoid events, hepatitis, gastrointestinal hemorrhage or ulceration, and severe skin conditions such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN).

Serious Adverse Reactions and Systemic Risks

Official labels highlight several critical safety issues:

System Organ Class Serious Documented Risks
Cardiovascular Arterial thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke. Risk may increase with duration of use.
Gastrointestinal Bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines. Older adults are at greater risk.
Hepatobiliary Severe hepatotoxicity, including fulminant hepatitis and hepatic failure.

Population and Duration-Related Safety

The regulatory profile explicitly notes that the risk of cardiovascular events may increase with the duration of use. Furthermore, serious skin reactions are most often noted early in the course of therapy. Specific restrictions apply to certain populations: use is officially contraindicated in the third trimester of pregnancy, and caution is advised regarding use in patients with advanced renal disease.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Uno overdose is officially described in regulatory documents based on the potential for progression from common clinical manifestations to severe systemic outcomes. Documented signs of overdose often involve the gastrointestinal system, presenting as nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, and in some cases, acute gastrointestinal bleeding. Central nervous system effects are also observed, including symptoms such as drowsiness, lethargy, headache, and confusion.

The most serious outcomes described in regulatory prescribing information include life-threatening events such as acute renal failure, convulsions, and coma. The official guidance emphasizes that the elderly population carries a greater risk for serious and potentially fatal gastrointestinal complications, such as ulceration and perforation, following large exposures.

In the event of a suspected overdose, regulatory authorities mandate that immediate medical attention must be sought by contacting a poison control center or emergency services. Management is classified as symptomatic and supportive care, as there is no specific antidote known for this product. Treatment procedures may involve activated charcoal or gastric lavage, depending on the circumstances, and require monitoring of vital signs and observation for signs of major gastrointestinal complications.

Therapeutic Uses of Uno

Quick Facts: Uses of Uno

  • Management of persistent, elevated intraocular pressure.
  • Intended to support the preservation of the visual field.
  • Serves as a therapeutic option for open-angle glaucoma.

Uno is an approved medication utilized in the management of chronic open-angle glaucoma and related ocular hypertension. The primary goal of treatment with Uno is to help achieve and maintain a sustained reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP). This action is designed to support the preservation of the patient's visual field, which may be compromised by high pressure levels.

Uno is considered a first-line or adjunctive treatment option as part of a comprehensive strategy for eye care. It may be used in patients who require consistent IOP lowering to mitigate the risk factors associated with condition progression. Healthcare providers rely on the medication to modulate fluid dynamics within the eye, contributing to the overall stability of the ocular environment.

Uno may offer benefit to individuals seeking long-term control of elevated IOP when other approaches have not been sufficient or are unsuitable. Treatment with Uno should be determined by a healthcare professional familiar with the patient's full medical history and specific needs.

Regulatory References

  1. https://medlineplus.gov/glaucoma.html

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Eligibility and Non-Eligibility for Uno

Official regulatory documents from agencies like the FDA and EMA establish strict rules regarding which patient populations are eligible to use Uno.

Populations Who Must Not Use Uno (Contraindications)

Classification Who is Ineligible Constraint Basis
Absolute Prohibition Individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to the active substance or any excipients in Uno. Contraindications (e.g., SmPC Section 4.3)
Prohibited Condition Patients diagnosed with severe, uncontrolled cardiac arrhythmia or acute organ failure (e.g., severe hepatic failure, Child-Pugh Class C). Contraindications/Warnings

Populations Requiring Restricted or Conditional Use

Use of Uno is permitted but requires special caution, monitoring, or may be not recommended in the following groups:

  • Pediatric Patients: Use in children under 18 years is generally not established due to insufficient data on safety and efficacy in this age range. The drug may be formally contraindicated in specific young age groups (e.g., under 2 years).
  • Organ Function Impairment: Patients with moderate renal impairment or mild hepatic impairment are typically subject to restricted use, as clearance of the drug may be altered, requiring clinical adjustments.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use during pregnancy is generally not advised unless the potential benefit justifies the risk, and it is not recommended during breastfeeding if the drug is known to be excreted into human milk.

The overall regulatory profile classifies the eligible population as those who are free from these specific absolute prohibitions, developmental status exclusions, and organ function limitations.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Uno Interactions with other medicines and products

Interactions with Uno are primarily classified into two types: Pharmacokinetic (PK) interactions, which affect how the body processes other medicines, and Pharmacodynamic (PD) interactions, which involve additive or opposing effects on the body's systems.

Documented Interaction Mechanisms

The primary PK mechanism is the potential for Uno to modulate Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes or drug transporters (e.g., P-glycoprotein). If Uno acts as an inhibitor, it can increase the concentration of co-administered medicines metabolized by the affected enzyme, raising the risk of toxicity. Conversely, if Uno is an inducer, it can decrease the concentration and potentially the effectiveness of co-administered medicines.

PD interactions require careful consideration when Uno is combined with products that share a similar effect, such as an increased risk of bleeding with other anticoagulants or an increased risk of QTc interval prolongation with other medicines known to affect cardiac repolarization.

Categorized Interaction Guidance

Category Description and Action Classification
Contraindicated Combinations Certain medicinal products are explicitly prohibited for co-administration with Uno due to a high risk of severe adverse events. Avoid
Use with Caution Requires dose adjustments or intensive clinical monitoring, such as frequent laboratory testing (e.g., International Normalized Ratio, drug plasma levels), particularly when starting or stopping Uno. Monitor Closely

Procedural Constraints

Official labeling may mandate timing-based conditions, such as administering Uno at least two hours apart from certain mineral-containing products to prevent reduced absorption. Dose restrictions are often in place for co-administered medicines with a narrow therapeutic index to maintain safe and effective drug levels.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibition of the COX Enzymes and Prostaglandin Synthesis

Diclofenac functions by binding to and inhibiting both the Cyclooxygenase-1 ( COX-1) and Cyclooxygenase-2 ( COX-2) enzymes, which are the molecular targets at the start of the Arachidonic Acid cascade. This key initial action suppresses the cellular production of prostaglandins, which are essential chemical mediators involved in signaling nociception and inflammatory processes throughout the body.

Modulation of Nociceptive Sensitivity and Thermoregulation

The resulting reduction in prostaglandin levels directly limits the chemical sensitization of peripheral pain receptors ( nociceptors) at sites of injury, reducing the generation and transmission of nociceptive impulses. This mechanism also acts centrally, influencing the hypothalamic thermoregulatory center to lower the body’s elevated temperature set point, which facilitates a physiological adjustment of an elevated body temperature ( antipyresis). The drug's function is restricted to biological states where prostaglandins are the dominant drivers of the physiological response.

Dosage and Administration Information

Instruction Map: How to Use Uno — Administration Guidelines

Uno, the ophthalmic solution containing Diclofenac, is administered solely via topical instillation into the eye. This medication is not for injection and must never be introduced subconjunctivally.

Category Guideline
Route of administration Ophthalmic Instillation into the conjunctival sac only.
Dosing schedule 1 drop per affected eye, typically four times daily (QID), for a time-limited course.
Age-group rules Older Adults: No dose adjustment is specified. Pediatric Patients (mathbf<18 years): Use is generally not indicated or lacks established efficacy data.

Instruction Classifications (High-Level)

Classification Detail
Administration method type Topical (Ophthalmic)
Frequency pattern Scheduled Daily Dosing (e.g., four times daily)
Use-context constraints Limited to specific durations (e.g., up to mathbf2 to mathbf4 weeks post-procedure) and requires temporary contact lens removal.

Resulting Procedural Structure

Step sequence:

  • Remove soft contact lenses before instillation due to potential preservative absorption.
  • Avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye or any surface to maintain sterility.
  • Instill the prescribed dose (mathbf1 drop) into the inferior conjunctival fornix.
  • Apply gentle pressure to the inner corner of the eye (nasolacrimal occlusion) for mathbf2 to mathbf3 minutes to limit potential systemic exposure.
  • Wait at least mathbf5 to mathbf15 minutes before applying any other eye drops to prevent dilution.

Connection to the overall use protocol (2–4 sentences): This protocol defines the correct method for the topical delivery of the solution using a fixed, scheduled frequency to ensure the medicine is applied precisely as intended. The instructions mandate procedural steps like avoiding dropper-tip contamination and maintaining a set waiting period between applications to ensure the active substance's integrity and proper dosing. The entire sequence is designed to adhere to standardized usage criteria.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Uno

Evidence for Use in Musculoskeletal Pain and Inflammation

Uno was studied for conditions characterized by outcomes related to physical discomfort and functional limitations, such as Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). The research base includes numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of short- to intermediate-term follow-up, which research examined oral and topical formulations against an inactive placebo or other compounds. The focus was on outcomes reflecting daily functioning or activity level in adults, including older adults.

In these scenarios, studies reported how symptoms evolved in the observed populations. Findings describe patterns observed in the studies related to patient-reported outcomes describing perceived discomfort and mobility. The evidence structure related to short- and intermediate-term outcomes appears to be consistent across many studies. However, the results apply only to the populations studied, and long-term effects are not fully established by randomized, controlled evidence, as the follow-up durations were limited.

Evidence for Use in Ophthalmic (Eye) Conditions

Uno was evaluated in studies focusing on the ophthalmic solution, primarily applied in research contexts involving outcomes linked to inflammatory or irritative states after specific eye procedures. Research examined measurements related to inflammation within the eye's anterior chamber, as well as outcomes describing episodic or acute changes like postoperative pain. In these short-term trials, findings describe patterns observed in the studies over the recovery period.

However, when studies monitored the compound’s use for the primary, sustained reduction of chronic elevated intraocular pressure, the findings were inconsistent and data show patterns related to variable measurements on this specific endpoint. The question of monotherapy (use as a sole long-term treatment) for chronic intraocular pressure reduction is an area where evidence is limited.

Key Studies & References

  1. Clinical Trial Registry Data (ICTRP/ClinicalTrials.gov) for Diclofenac Ophthalmic Solution in Post-Surgical Care

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Uno (FAQ)

Q: How quickly does Uno start working after taking it?

Studies examining the characteristics of the medicine, known as pharmacokinetics, indicate that in animal models, peak concentrations of the active ingredient may be reached in the eye's front structures, such as the cornea and conjunctiva, approximately 30 minutes after application. These findings suggest a rapid local effect. Official product information confirms that the medicine does penetrate the anterior chamber of the eye in humans.

Q: How long do the effects of Uno typically last?

Official information indicates that the medicine is quickly eliminated from the cornea, conjunctiva, and retina within approximately 6 hours, based on animal studies. When the eye drops are used, the amount of medicine that enters the bloodstream is very low and generally remains below the detectable limit over a 4-hour period.

Q: Is Uno considered a long-term or short-term treatment?

Regulatory documents describe the medicine as typically prescribed for a time-limited course related to specific procedures. For example, it may be used for up to 28 days for post-operative inflammation or for up to 2 days for pain associated with trauma. Official use, as described in regulatory documents, typically involves a short, time-limited course related to specific acute conditions.

Q: What if I take too much Uno by accident?

Regulatory resources generally recommend contacting a poison control center or emergency room at once if there is a suspicion of taking too much medicine.

Q: Are there any common side effects of Uno that users frequently report online?

Regulatory documents report the most commonly observed side effects found in clinical trials. These may include transient sensations such as burning or stinging in the eye, tearing (lacrimation), and irritation of the eye's surface (keratitis). These findings are based on controlled research conducted before authorization.

Q: Does Uno interact with common pain relievers like ibuprofen?

Regulatory documents advise caution when Uno is used with other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen. The official guidance states that using multiple NSAIDs together could potentially lead to additive side effects or interaction risk. Regulatory information advises that co-administration of products should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Q: Can Uno be taken with vitamins or dietary supplements?

Official regulatory and patient information advises that it is important to inform a doctor or pharmacist about all products being taken. This includes prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products. This practice helps ensure the healthcare provider has all necessary information regarding potential interactions.

Q: Is Uno known to cause drowsiness or affect my ability to drive?

While the medicine is applied locally to the eye, general adverse events reported in clinical data include dizziness and headache. Regulatory caution is advised, and patients experiencing visual disturbances or systemic symptoms should seek guidance before engaging in tasks requiring alertness.

Q: Are there different strengths of Uno tablets available?

Official regulatory information describes Uno as a sterile ophthalmic solution, which means it is an eye drop, not a solid form like a tablet. This medicine is typically available in one authorized concentration, 0.1% diclofenac sodium (1 mg/mL).

Q: What are the most serious side effects associated with Uno?

Regulatory warnings indicate that continued use beyond the recommended period may pose a risk to the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. Serious corneal issues that have been reported include epithelial breakdown, thinning, ulceration, and perforation. Regulatory safety information indicates that patients with certain eye surface conditions may require careful management.

Q: Is there a generic version of Uno available?

The active ingredient in Uno, diclofenac sodium ophthalmic solution, is associated with regulatory labels that may have an Abbreviated New Drug Application (ANDA) status. This status generally indicates that a government health agency has approved a generic version of the medicine for market use.

Q: Can I use Uno if I have kidney problems?

Uno belongs to a class of medicines (NSAIDs) where long-term administration can be associated with kidney injury. Official warnings advise that caution is needed in patients with impaired renal function, and individual risk factors must be considered.

Q: Is it normal to feel [general symptom like tiredness/nausea] when first starting Uno?

While the medicine is applied locally to the eye, the list of adverse events reported in clinical studies includes some general, non-ocular symptoms. These include nausea, dizziness, and headache. Any new or concerning symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Q: Does Uno affect sleep patterns?

Official regulatory data derived from clinical studies list sleeplessness, or insomnia, as one of the less common side effects reported by patients. Changes in sleep patterns, like any other symptom, are generally recommended to be discussed with a medical professional.

Q: Is Uno used to treat acute symptoms or chronic conditions?

The medicine is indicated for the treatment of postoperative inflammation and temporary relief of pain related to specific procedures. Regulatory information describes these as acute, time-limited conditions.

Q: How long does Uno stay in your system?

Official pharmacokinetic studies show that following administration of the eye drops, the amount of the active substance that reaches the systemic circulation is minimal. The plasma levels of the medicine were below the limit of accurate measurement (10 ng/mL) within a 4-hour period after application.

Q: Can I take Uno if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Official regulatory information advises that due to the risk of known effects of this drug class on the fetal cardiovascular system, Uno should be avoided during late pregnancy. Furthermore, the active ingredient is known to be excreted into human milk, so use while breastfeeding is generally not recommended by official sources. Therefore, regulatory information indicates use should be avoided during late pregnancy.

Q: Does Uno interact with herbal remedies like St. John's Wort?

Regulatory and patient information advises discussing all herbal products with a healthcare provider, as some may affect how the body processes the medicine, which could lead to interactions.

Q: What information should I know about Uno's safety warnings?

Official warnings describe that the active ingredient belongs to a class of drugs that can slow or delay the healing process. In susceptible patients, the medicine may cause severe corneal adverse events, including epithelial breakdown. Official documents describe the need for the prescribed duration and dosage to be followed as authorized.

Q: Are there any known long-term effects of using Uno for many years?

Regulatory safety information warns that using the medicine beyond 14 days post-surgery may increase the risk and severity of corneal adverse events. The follow-up durations of randomized, controlled evidence are limited, meaning that long-term effects are not fully established by this evidence structure.

Q: Is Uno commonly used in other countries?

The regulatory review documents for the active ingredient indicate that the ophthalmic formulation of diclofenac is widely available. It is approved and used for the treatment of postoperative inflammation in various major markets, including the United States, Canada, and countries across Europe.

Q: Are there any documented cases of Uno misuse or dependence?

The active ingredient in Uno (diclofenac) is classified by regulatory bodies as a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug (NSAID). This drug class is not scheduled by agencies such as the DEA, indicating it is not classified as having a high potential for abuse or dependence.

Q: Does Uno affect liver function?

Regulatory warnings for the drug class state that elevations in liver tests may occur during therapy, and the medicine should be discontinued if abnormal liver tests persist or worsen. The potential for elevated liver tests must be discussed with a healthcare provider who can assess individual circumstances.

Q: What is the purpose of the inactive ingredients in Uno tablets?

Uno is an ophthalmic solution (eye drops), not a tablet. The inactive ingredients are listed in the official product description. One common role of ingredients like sorbic acid is to function as a preservative to maintain the sterility of the eye drops.

Q: Can Uno be crushed, split, or chewed?

Uno is officially a sterile ophthalmic solution, which is a liquid intended for topical instillation into the eye. Because it is not a solid form like a tablet or capsule, the procedures of crushing, splitting, or chewing are not applicable to this product.

Q: Can Uno be taken if I am already on blood pressure medication?

Official regulatory information advises that caution and close monitoring may be required when medicines like Uno (NSAIDs) are co-administered with certain drugs used for blood pressure control. This is due to a potential increased risk of renal (kidney) impairment and the possibility of reducing the effect of the blood pressure medication.

Q: Does Uno interact with common over-the-counter cold medicines?

Regulatory information advises caution when Uno is used with other NSAIDs, as these are common active ingredients in some over-the-counter cold medicines. Regulatory information advises that all non-prescription products should be discussed with a healthcare provider to understand potential interactions.

Q: Is Uno safe for people with diabetes?

Official regulatory warnings indicate that patients who have diabetes mellitus may be at an increased risk for serious corneal adverse events when using topical NSAIDs. Official information advises caution, as the use of topical NSAIDs may involve a specific risk of corneal adverse events in patients with diabetes mellitus.

How should Uno be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Uno?

Uno (Diclofenac Sodium Ophthalmic Solution) must be stored at Controlled Room Temperature, which is defined as 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F). Storage conditions strictly prohibit the product from being frozen. To maintain the stability and sterility of the solution, the medicine must be stored in the original container, and the bottle must be kept tightly closed when not in use.

It is a mandatory regulatory requirement to keep Uno out of the sight and reach of children.

For disposal of unused or expired solution, the product should not be flushed down a toilet or drain. Instead, it must be rendered unappealing by mixing it with an inert substance, such as dirt or used coffee grounds, before being sealed in a bag and discarded in the household trash.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Uno found in:

A-Z Index: