Voveran SR (diclofenac sodium sustained release) is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) designed for the management of chronic pain and inflammation. Its sustained-release formulation ensures prolonged therapeutic plasma levels, offering consistent symptom control with convenient once-daily dosing. This medication is particularly indicated for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, providing patients with improved mobility and quality of life. Always use under strict medical supervision to minimize risks associated with NSAID therapy.

Features

• Active ingredient: Diclofenac sodium 100 mg
• Pharmaceutical form: Sustained-release tablet
• Mechanism: Cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibition reducing prostaglandin synthesis
• Pharmacokinetics: Extended-release profile for steady-state concentration
• Administration: Oral, once daily
• Packaging: Blister strips in quantities of 10, 20, or 30 tablets

Benefits

• Provides 24-hour continuous relief from inflammatory pain and stiffness
• Reduces joint swelling and improves range of motion in arthritic conditions
• Enables once-daily dosing for improved treatment adherence
• Minimizes peak-trough fluctuations in plasma concentration
• Supports functional improvement in daily activities
• Demonstrates proven efficacy in chronic inflammatory disorders

Common use

Voveran SR is primarily prescribed for the long-term management of chronic inflammatory conditions. Its main therapeutic applications include osteoarthritis of large joints (hips, knees), rheumatoid arthritis involving multiple joints, and ankylosing spondylitis affecting the axial skeleton. The sustained-release formulation makes it particularly suitable for patients requiring continuous symptom control throughout the day and night. Medical practitioners may also prescribe it off-label for certain cases of chronic low back pain and soft tissue rheumatism when conventional immediate-release formulations provide insufficient duration of action.

Dosage and direction

The recommended adult dosage is one 100 mg sustained-release tablet once daily, taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal irritation. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a full glass of water and must not be crushed, chewed, or broken. The dosage may be adjusted based on individual patient response and tolerability, though the maximum daily dose should not exceed 150 mg diclofenac (as multiple formulations). Treatment should be initiated at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. For elderly patients or those with hepatic impairment, a reduced dosage of 50 mg once daily may be appropriate. Always take at approximately the same time each day to maintain consistent therapeutic levels.

Precautions

Patients should undergo comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessment before initiation and periodically during treatment. Regular monitoring of renal function (serum creatinine), hepatic enzymes, and complete blood count is recommended, especially during long-term therapy. Use with caution in patients with history of gastrointestinal ulceration, bleeding disorders, or cardiovascular disease. Concomitant use of gastroprotective agents (proton pump inhibitors) should be considered for high-risk patients. Avoid dehydration and monitor fluid balance, particularly in elderly patients. Discontinuation should be gradual if treatment duration exceeds several weeks to prevent rebound inflammation.

Contraindications

Voveran SR is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to diclofenac, other NSAIDs, or any excipients in the formulation. Additional absolute contraindications include active gastrointestinal bleeding or ulceration, severe heart failure (NYHA Class IV), third trimester of pregnancy, severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) below 30 mL/min/1.73m². Should not be used in patients who have experienced asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Contraindicated following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

Possible side effects

Common adverse reactions (≥1/100 to <1/10) include gastrointestinal disturbances (dyspepsia, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea), headache, and dizziness. Uncommon effects (≥1/1,000 to <1/100) may include elevation of liver enzymes, gastrointestinal ulceration, fluid retention, and skin reactions. Rare serious adverse reactions (<1/1,000) include gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation, severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs), hepatotoxicity, acute renal failure, and anaphylactic reactions. Cardiovascular risk of thrombotic events (myocardial infarction, stroke) may increase with duration of use and higher doses. Patients should immediately report signs of bleeding, jaundice, or severe skin reactions.

Drug interaction

Significant interactions occur with anticoagulants (warfarin, NOACs) increasing bleeding risk. Concurrent use with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids elevates gastrointestinal toxicity. ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, and diuretics may have reduced antihypertensive effects and increased nephrotoxicity risk. Cyclosporine and tacrolimus may enhance nephrotoxicity. Lithium levels may increase requiring dosage adjustment. Methotrexate toxicity may be enhanced. SSRIs and SNRIs may increase bleeding risk. Phenytoin levels may require monitoring. Always review full medication profile before prescription.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed tablet. Maintain the regular once-daily interval between doses. If uncertain about management of missed doses, consult the prescribing physician or pharmacist for specific guidance based on individual treatment regimen.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, drowsiness, dizziness, tinnitus, convulsions, or acute renal failure. In severe cases, respiratory depression and coma may occur. There is no specific antidote for diclofenac overdose. Management involves supportive care and symptomatic treatment. Gastric lavage may be considered within one hour of ingestion. Activated charcoal may be effective if given promptly. Forced diuresis, dialysis, or hemoperfusion are unlikely to be beneficial due to high protein binding. Monitor and support renal function, electrolyte balance, and vital signs.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in the original packaging to protect from moisture and light. Keep the blister strips sealed until immediately before use. Do not transfer tablets to other containers. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly dispose of any unused or expired medication through pharmacy take-back programs—do not flush down toilets or pour into drains.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Voveran SR is a prescription medication that should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual response to treatment may vary. The prescribing physician will determine the appropriate dosage and duration based on specific medical condition, response to treatment, and risk factors. Always follow the prescribed dosage and report any adverse effects immediately. This summary does not include all possible information about this medication—consult the full prescribing information for complete details.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Voveran SR’s efficacy in improving pain scores and functional status in chronic inflammatory conditions. In a 12-week randomized controlled trial involving osteoarthritis patients, 78% of participants receiving diclofenac SR reported significant pain reduction compared to placebo (p<0.001). Rheumatoid arthritis studies show consistent improvement in morning stiffness duration and joint swelling indices. Patient-reported outcomes indicate improved quality of life measures, though some reports note gastrointestinal discomfort as the most common reason for discontinuation. Long-term observational studies confirm maintained efficacy with appropriate monitoring, though emphasize the importance of regular safety assessments.