Dicloabak

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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 Dicloabak

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Diclofenac (as sodium salt)
Form Eye Drops Solution (Ophthalmic Solution)
Pharmacological class Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID)
Origin Synthetic (Phenylacetic acid derivative)
Route Topical Ophthalmic

What is the Pharmacological Classification of Dicloabak?

Dicloabak is classified as a specialized, prescription-only Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) designed specifically for ocular application. Its active component is Diclofenac, a compound derived synthetically from phenylacetic acid. This classification means the medication’s fundamental action is to manage swelling and pain without the use of corticosteroids. Diclofenac is clinically recognized for its effectiveness in the local modulation of inflammatory processes within eye structures, highlighting its established role in ophthalmic care.

Composition and Delivery: Diclofenac Eye Drops Solution

The medication is supplied as a sterile Eye Drops Solution containing Diclofenac sodium, typically at a 0.1% concentration. It is intended solely for topical ophthalmic administration to the surface of the eye. A key differentiating feature of this formulation is its preservative-free nature. This design choice is supported by a significant body of medical literature suggesting that preservative-free options may be preferred for chronic use to help maintain the health and integrity of the corneal surface.

General Therapeutic Purpose and Local Action

The overall purpose of Dicloabak is to reduce inflammation and relieve the feeling of pain within the ocular structure. Diclofenac works as a prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor, a mechanism that blocks the activity of cyclooxygenase enzymes responsible for generating chemical signals that trigger localized pain and swelling. By precisely modulating this key process, the drug efficiently provides a targeted anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect.

Regulatory References

  1. Dicloabak Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)

What side effects are possible with Dicloabak?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

Dicloabak (Diclofenac) is a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID) whose use is associated with a risk of serious, life-threatening adverse events that are common to the entire drug class. To mitigate these risks, the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration of treatment is recommended.


Major Safety Warnings and Restrictions

  • Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events: Systemic diclofenac use carries an increased risk of serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction (heart attack) and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk is greater at higher doses and with prolonged use. The drug is contraindicated in patients with established congestive heart failure (NYHA Class II-IV), ischemic heart disease, peripheral arterial disease, or cerebrovascular disease, and is not to be used immediately before or after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
  • Gastrointestinal (GI) Events: NSAIDs can cause inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which may be fatal and can occur without warning symptoms, particularly in the elderly.
  • Pregnancy: Diclofenac is contraindicated in the third trimester of pregnancy due to the potential for premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus and fetal renal dysfunction.

Common and Serious Adverse Reactions

Commonly reported side effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion, abdominal pain, and rash. Less commonly, reactions such as cardiac failure, increased liver enzymes (transaminases), and edema (fluid retention) have been reported. Rare but serious reactions include severe skin conditions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson Syndrome), hepatotoxicity leading to liver failure, renal toxicity (e.g., acute renal failure), and severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help: Official Regulatory Information

The official labeling for Diclofenac Ophthalmic Solution focuses the overdose risk primarily on accidental oral ingestion of the bottle contents, rather than topical ocular overuse. Due to the very low systemic absorption after application to the eye, acute systemic toxicity is officially considered unlikely.

Required Emergency Actions

Condition Required Action (As Stated in Official Labeling)
Accidental Oral Ingestion Seek immediate medical attention and contact a poison control center.
Topical Ocular Overdose Discontinue use.

Management and Known Status

The symptoms typically associated with an overdose of systemic Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as gastrointestinal or renal effects, are not anticipated from topical ophthalmic administration. Management of accidental oral ingestion is entirely symptomatic and supportive, as no specific antidote is known for Diclofenac.

In cases of recent, significant oral ingestion, procedures to reduce absorption, such as gastric emptying or the administration of activated charcoal, may be considered by medical professionals. Close medical observation or hospital monitoring may be required following such an event.

Therapeutic Uses of Dicloabak

What Dicloabak Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The primary role of Dicloabak is to provide targeted symptomatic relief and supportive therapeutic benefit within specific ophthalmic contexts, focusing on managing acute, non-infectious manifestations. The medication is commonly used in settings marked by temporary physiological imbalance, which may include contexts following ophthalmic surgery.

Controlling Postoperative Eye Inflammation and Discomfort

This medication is applied in clinical settings that involve inflammatory or irritative processes. It is relevant when supportive symptom management is appropriate to help manage the acute swelling and redness resulting from surgical trauma, such as after cataract removal. The medication is relevant for easing symptoms related to inflammatory or irritative states, including postoperative inflammation and pain, and is applied when supportive symptom management is appropriate following corneal refractive surgery.

By managing symptoms related to inflammatory states, the medication contributes to easing the overall symptom load and may assist with managing the risk of specific postoperative inflammatory complications, such as cystoid macular edema (CME), in situations where patients experience these conditions. The medication is relevant for easing symptoms related to physical discomfort, such as acute soreness, pain, and symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain, like light sensitivity (photophobia).


Quick Fact: Relief for Post-Surgical Symptoms

Symptom Type Therapeutic Goal
Inflammatory Supports management of acute inflammatory states.
Pain/Sensory Assists with easing physical discomfort and functional strain.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The eligibility for Dicloabak is defined by specific population rules documented in official regulatory labeling.

Populations for whom use is contraindicated

Use is strictly contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any drug component or a history of allergic reactions, such as asthma or urticaria, precipitated by aspirin or other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). The medicine is also contraindicated for use during the third trimester of pregnancy.

Age-related eligibility rules

Dicloabak is approved for use in the adult population. Safety and effectiveness have not been established in pediatric patients, meaning its use in children is restricted by the lack of data. No dosage modification is typically required for older adults.

Eligibility-related restrictions

Caution is required for patients with pre-existing conditions that affect the cornea, such as epithelial defects, severe dry eye syndrome, diabetes mellitus, or rheumatoid arthritis. Use is restricted in patients with known bleeding tendencies. The medicine is not recommended for use in women who are breastfeeding.


Connection to the overall eligibility profile The official regulatory profile strictly defines who can and cannot use the medicine by prohibiting use due to immunologic risk (NSAID cross-sensitivity) and developmental risk (late pregnancy). Restrictions mandate caution for patients with existing bleeding tendencies or specific ocular comorbidities, establishing the boundaries for safe use as documented by regulatory authorities.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Dicloabak Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory information addresses interactions based primarily on additive pharmacodynamic risk at the site of application or through systemic effects on blood clotting, consistent with the topical ophthalmic route.


Documented Interaction Categories

Product Category Officially Documented Interaction Relevance Classification
Topical Steroids (Ophthalmic) Increased risk of corneal complications (e.g., delayed healing or epithelial defects). Use with Caution
Systemic Agents that Prolong Bleeding Time (e.g., Anticoagulants) Increased risk of ocular tissue bleeding (e.g., hyphema) during or after ocular surgery. Use with Caution

Interaction-Related Constraints

  • Pharmacokinetic Interactions: No clinically significant metabolic (e.g., CYP-mediated) or exposure-modifying interactions are officially documented, reflecting the product's negligible systemic absorption.
  • Timing Requirement: When using other ophthalmic medicines, a regulatory instruction requires administering the drops at least 5 to 10 minutes apart to prevent dilution or washout of the active ingredient.
  • Population Notes: Caution is specifically advised for patients receiving medications that prolong bleeding time and for those with significant pre-existing corneal inflammation when co-administered with topical steroids.

The regulatory profile confirms that the clinically relevant interactions for Dicloabak are limited to these specific additive effects and administration constraints.

Mechanism of Action

How Dicloabak Works: Mechanism of Action

Dicloabak, containing diclofenac, exerts its primary action by functioning as a competitive inhibitor of the Cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, specifically COX-1 and COX-2 . This molecular interaction effectively blocks the conversion of arachidonic acid into various biological mediators, placing a constraint early in the lipid signaling pathway.

The primary consequence of COX inhibition is the localized decrease in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins (PGs), particularly Prostaglandin E2 ( PGE2) . Since PGE2 acts as a chemical signal promoting afferent nerve sensitization and local vascular permeability, the resultant decrease in its concentration is a key mechanistic consequence.

By limiting the availability of these sensitizing mediators at the site of administration, the mechanism contributes to the reduction in sensitization of peripheral afferent nerve endings and restricts the exaggerated local vascular response. This physiological change results in altered local neural signaling properties and a decrease in the extent of localized fluid extravasation (edema).

Dosage and Administration Information

How Dicloabak Is Used: Official Administration Guidelines

Dicloabak (Diclofenac 0.1% Ophthalmic Solution) is administered through the Topical Ophthalmic route, meaning the drops are instilled into the conjunctival sac of the eye and are not to be injected subconjunctivally or into the eye chamber.


Official Dosing and Frequency Patterns

The standard unit dose is one drop, but the overall regimen and duration of use are determined by the clinical scenario, as established in regulatory prescribing information.

Context of Use Standard Labeled Frequency Typical Duration Constraint
Postoperative Inflammation One drop four times daily (QID) Typically limited to the first two weeks post-surgery.
Inhibition of Miosis (Pre-op) One drop five times during the three hours before surgery. Pre-operative application only.
Post-Refractive Surgery Pain One drop four times daily Use is limited to up to three days post-intervention.

Administration and Procedural Rules

Administration involves certain mandatory conditions for proper use. If the individual wears contact lenses, they must be removed prior to instillation and should not be reinserted until at least 15 minutes after the drops have been applied. When using other eye drops concurrently, an interval of five to fifteen minutes must be maintained between the application of Dicloabak and the other medication to prevent wash-out and ensure proper dosing.

Regarding specific populations, official guidelines generally state that no dosage modification is required for older adults, while the medication is typically not indicated for use in children due to limited pediatric clinical experience.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Dicloabak

The available research evidence for Dicloabak (Diclofenac 0.1% eye drops) is derived from clinical trials, including randomized studies and comparative evaluations, that focus on research questions concerning certain eye conditions, primarily after surgery. The following summary outlines what has been studied, what has been observed in these trials, and what remains uncertain, based on official regulatory and scientific literature.


Evidence for Studies on Postoperative Eye Inflammation

Research has focused on using the drops in patients who have recently undergone common eye surgeries, such as cataract removal. The primary evidence base consists of short-term, randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

The studies were designed to evaluate outcomes linked to states of inflammation or irritation in the eye. Researchers measured objective signs of inflammation, specifically focusing on anterior chamber flare and cell scores. Research highlights changes measured during the study period, described patterns observed in the evolution of the inflammatory response over the short term (typically the first few weeks). The evidence contributes to the broader research landscape concerning symptom patterns in patients recovering from this specific type of surgery.


Evidence for Studies on Acute Pain and Discomfort Relief

Research has also explored outcomes related to physical discomfort following eye procedures. The evidence includes short-duration randomized controlled trials that were used to examine patient-reported experiences. Researchers measured subjective pain scores using validated scales and explored outcomes related to specific sensory complaints, such as photophobia (light sensitivity).

Trials described the patterns observed in the time course of subjective pain scores in the immediate hours and days following surgery. Research highlights changes measured during the study period related to the evolution of specific sensory complaints. The data show patterns related to how pain symptoms evolved in the observed populations, but research is primarily confined to the very short-term, acute postoperative phase.


Evidence for Studies on Specific Postoperative Complications

A separate body of research explored research questions concerning the prevention of a specific postoperative complication called Cystoid Macular Edema (CME). Studies explored this within the research context of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), often where the drops was studied for use alongside other standard post-operative care. The key outcomes measured were linked to functional imbalance: researchers evaluated the incidence of CME diagnosis using diagnostic imaging and monitored changes in retinal thickness.

Key Limitations and Areas of Research Uncertainty

Follow-up durations were limited for characterizing long-term anti-inflammatory outcomes, typically ranging from four to five weeks for primary efficacy trials. Data for certain groups (e.g., the general pediatric population or complicated surgical cases) remain insufficient for broader characterization, and research exploring the drug's role in established CME remains an area of uncertainty.

Key Studies & References

  1. Diclofenac Sodium Ophthalmic Solution, 0.1% - Regulatory Prescribing Information (DailyMed)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Dicloabak (FAQ)


Q: How quickly can a person expect Dicloabak to start working?

A: The medication is approved for the short-duration relief of acute pain and irritation after certain eye procedures. Official information regarding its intended use for acute pain indicates the pain-relieving effects have a rapid onset. This is consistent with its role in managing temporary, acute symptoms.

Q: Is it normal to feel a slight stinging or burning sensation after using Dicloabak?

A: Official product information indicates that transient (temporary) burning and stinging sensations are reported as common side effects. This type of localized reaction has occurred in a noticeable percentage of patients across clinical studies.

Q: What are the most serious possible side effects listed in official documents for Dicloabak?

A: Beyond the general safety warnings common to its drug class, serious ocular (eye) adverse reactions have been noted in postmarketing experience. These specific risks include severe corneal events such as epithelial breakdown, thinning, ulceration, and perforation. The documentation of these risks highlights the need for continued monitoring during use.

Q: Has there been much research published about Dicloabak?

A: The product has a long history of use in ophthalmic care. Its regulatory approval is supported by a substantial and well-proven track record of clinical and research data, including randomized controlled trials.

Q: Do studies show that Dicloabak is a long-term treatment?

A: The medication is not intended for long-term use. Official prescribing information limits the standard duration to only a few days or weeks post-surgery. Postmarketing experience suggests use extending beyond 14 days after surgery may increase the risk of certain corneal adverse events.

Q: Can Dicloabak affect how well other eye medications work?

A: Yes, regulatory and clinical information indicates potential interactions with other ophthalmic drops. For example, using this product with certain drops for glaucoma (prostaglandin analogues) may lead to an enhanced effect of the other medication. Additionally, an interval of 5 to 15 minutes is required between applications of different eye drops to prevent wash-out.

Q: Are there different strengths or concentrations of Dicloabak?

A: The medication is typically supplied and labeled as Diclofenac sodium at a 0.1% concentration. This concentration is the established standard for its topical ophthalmic use.

Q: Can patients use Dicloabak for an eye injury that is not related to surgery?

A: The primary approved uses relate to postoperative conditions. However, some international regulatory documents also include the use for inflammation associated with certain non-penetrating wounds to the eye.

Q: Is Dicloabak available without a prescription in some countries?

A: Diclofenac ophthalmic solution is classified as a prescription-only medication by major regulatory bodies. This classification is consistent with the need for medical oversight.

Q: How is Dicloabak different from other similar eye drops I can buy?

A: The product is classified as a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID), which targets inflammation using a specific enzyme-blocking mechanism. Certain formulations are also available as a preservative-free ophthalmic solution, which is a key distinguishing feature from many other common eye drops.

Q: Why do official documents mention 'inflammation' in relation to Dicloabak?

A: The medication works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in the eye. This process leads to a decrease in the production of prostaglandins, which are chemical signals responsible for promoting localized inflammation, swelling, and pain. The mention of inflammation relates directly to its mechanism of action.

Q: Can Dicloabak cause blurry vision, and if so, how long does it last?

A: Blurred vision is listed in official documentation as an uncommon side effect. If it occurs, it is typically experienced immediately after the eye drop instillation and is usually temporary.

Q: Is there a link between using Dicloabak and developing a headache?

A: Yes, headache is reported in regulatory documents as a common systemic side effect observed in clinical studies.

Q: What is the guidance on using Dicloabak for older adults (seniors)?

A: Official guidelines generally state that no dosage modification is required for older adults when using the eye drop solution. However, caution is advised in this population due to the potentially increased risk of systemic side effects associated with NSAIDs.

Q: Does Dicloabak need to be kept in the refrigerator?

A: No. Official regulatory instructions specify that the product must be stored below 30 C and explicitly states to not refrigerate or freeze it. It should be kept in its original outer carton and protected from light.

Q: Do food or drinks affect how Dicloabak works?

A: There are no clinically significant food or drink interactions officially documented for the eye drop solution. This absence of interaction is consistent with the medication's negligible systemic absorption following topical application.

Q: Is it possible for a patient to be allergic to an ingredient in Dicloabak?

A: The product is strictly contraindicated for use in any patient with a known hypersensitivity to any of its components. It is also contraindicated for those with a history of allergic reactions, such as asthma or hives, triggered by aspirin or other Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs).

Q: Are there known effects of Dicloabak on driving or operating machinery?

A: Due to the potential for temporary blurred vision immediately after application, official guidance states that patients should not drive or operate machinery until clear vision is completely restored and they are certain they can perform such activities safely.

Q: What happens if the Dicloabak bottle is dropped or stored improperly?

A: If the eye drops are stored incorrectly outside of the regulated temperature and light conditions, the medication may no longer be stable or effective. Regulatory guidance related to product integrity suggests that the bottle should be discarded if storage conditions are compromised.

Q: Is it common for people to experience dry eye when using Dicloabak?

A: Dry eye or dry eyes is listed among the less common side effects reported in clinical studies for this medication. The documentation for this side effect is intended to inform patients and healthcare providers.

Q: Is there a generic version of Dicloabak available?

A: Yes, the active ingredient in Dicloabak, which is Diclofenac sodium, is available as a generic drug. Various generic ophthalmic solutions containing the same active substance have received regulatory approval.

Q: Is the active substance in Dicloabak known by other names?

A: Yes, the active substance is known as Diclofenac sodium. This substance is also recognized chemically as a phenylacetic acid derivative, which defines its structural class.

Q: Can patients use Dicloabak if they have glaucoma?

A: The product has been included in clinical studies involving patients with certain types of glaucoma, often used alongside their existing glaucoma medications. However, its use requires careful oversight, as elevations in intraocular pressure (IOP) have been reported following cataract surgery in some individuals.

Q: Do different regulatory bodies list the same or different conditions for Dicloabak's use?

A: The product is approved by different health authorities globally. Official information indicates that the specific range of approved uses, or indications, may vary depending on the country or regulatory region.

Q: Is there any research looking into the long-term corneal safety of Dicloabak?

A: Official information indicates that primary efficacy trials generally had limited follow-up durations. However, research and post-marketing experience have noted a potential increased risk of serious corneal adverse events, such as thinning and ulceration, when use extends beyond 14 days postsurgery, indicating regulatory focus on this risk.

Q: Does Dicloabak affect blood pressure?

A: Systemic absorption is typically negligible with the ophthalmic solution. However, due to the drug’s class (NSAID), increased blood pressure has been reported with the use of systemic (oral) forms of the medication. This systemic risk is considered by regulatory bodies when evaluating the product's safety profile.

Q: Can Dicloabak make me sensitive to light?

A: Sensitivity to light, known as photophobia, is listed as an uncommon side effect reported immediately after instillation. Interestingly, relief of photophobia is also one of the symptoms the drug is used to address following certain eye procedures.

How should Dicloabak be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Requirements

Storage and handling of Dicloabak eye drops must adhere strictly to the conditions specified in regulatory labeling to maintain stability and effectiveness.

Requirement Official Regulatory Statement
Storage Temperature Store below 30 C and protect from light.
Prohibited Conditions Do not refrigerate or freeze.
In-Use Stability Discard the product after the specified period (typically one month) following the first opening of the bottle.
Child Safety Keep the medicine out of the reach and sight of children.
Packaging Keep the container in the original outer carton.
Disposal Do not dispose of unused or expired medicine in wastewater or household trash. Return the product to a pharmacy or designated collection point for environmentally safe disposal.

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

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