Adwiflam 50 mg: Your Guide to Uses, Dosage & Side Effects

Adwiflam is one of the most famous medicines used to relieve acute pain and reduce inflammation. Thanks to its effective formula and rapid action, it has become a popular choice for managing a wide range of painful conditions, from migraines and menstrual pain to joint pain and injuries. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about this medication, from its components and mechanism of action, to its specific indications, recommended dosages, and the most important warnings and side effects to be aware of.

Our goal is to provide you with accurate and simplified information to help you use Adwiflam safely and effectively, with a full understanding of potential risks and drug interactions.

What is Adwiflam and what is its active ingredient?

Adwiflam is the trade name for a medication containing the active ingredient diclofenac potassium. This medication belongs to a group of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These drugs are among the top therapeutic options for managing pain, inflammation, and fever.

Adwiflam typically comes as an effervescent powder (powder for oral solution) with a concentration of 50 mg per sachet, which ensures rapid absorption and immediate onset of action, making it ideal for conditions requiring urgent pain relief.

Mechanism of action of diclofenac potassium

Diclofenac potassium works by inhibiting enzymes known as “cyclo-oxygenase” (COX-1 and COX-2). These enzymes are responsible for producing chemicals in the body called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins play a pivotal role in causing inflammation, the sensation of pain, and elevated body temperature.

When Adwiflam blocks the production of these substances, it directly contributes to:

• Pain relief (Analgesic effect): by reducing the sensitivity of pain receptors.
• Fighting inflammation (Anti-inflammatory effect): by reducing the swelling and redness associated with the inflammatory response.
• Reducing fever (Antipyretic effect): by affecting the heat-regulating center in the brain.

The potassium salt of diclofenac is characterized by its rapid dissolution and absorption in the gastrointestinal tract compared to the sodium salt, which translates to a faster onset of action.

Indications for Adwiflam: When is it used?

Adwiflam is used as a short-term treatment for a variety of acute conditions that require rapid relief of pain and inflammation. We recommend its use in the following cases:

• Pain and inflammation after injuries: such as sprains, bruises, or sports injuries accompanied by swelling and pain.
• Pain and inflammation after surgical procedures: especially after dental surgery (like a wisdom tooth extraction) or orthopedic surgeries.
• Painful gynecological conditions:
  • Primary dysmenorrhea: which is the severe pain associated with the menstrual cycle, where Adwiflam helps relieve cramps and sometimes reduce the severity of bleeding.
  • Adnexitis: as an adjunctive therapy to relieve pain and inflammation.
• Migraine attacks: Adwiflam is used to treat an acute migraine attack at its onset, not to prevent it. It helps relieve severe headaches and associated symptoms like nausea and vomiting.
• Pain syndromes of the vertebral column: such as lower back pain or acute neck pain.
• Non-articular rheumatism: which is pain affecting soft tissues like muscles and tendons.
• As an adjunctive therapy in severe ear, nose, and throat infections: such as pharyngotonsillitis or otitis media, where it helps relieve the severe pain associated with the infection, but it must be emphasized that it does not treat the infection itself, which requires an antibiotic.

Important note: Adwiflam is not used to treat fever as a standalone symptom; it must be associated with a painful inflammatory condition.

Dosage and Correct Method of Use

To ensure the best results and reduce the risk of side effects, the dose should be individually adjusted and the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible duration should be used.

Method of Preparation

Dissolve the contents of one Adwiflam sachet (50 mg) in a glass of still water (non-carbonated) with stirring. The solution may appear slightly cloudy, but this does not affect the efficacy of the medicine. It is preferable to take the solution before meals to ensure faster absorption.

Dosage for adults

• The recommended initial daily dose: ranges from 100 to 150 mg per day.
• Mild cases: a dose of 50 to 100 mg daily is usually sufficient.
• The total daily dose should be divided into two or three separate doses (e.g., one sachet every 8 hours).

Dosages for special conditions

• Primary dysmenorrhea: The dose usually starts at 50 to 100 mg at the first sign of symptoms. The dose can be increased if necessary during subsequent menstrual cycles, but should not exceed the maximum dose of 200 mg per day.
• Migraine attacks: An initial dose of 50 mg (one sachet) should be taken at the first sign of an attack. If sufficient relief is not achieved within two hours, an additional dose of 50 mg can be taken. If pain persists, additional doses of 50 mg can be taken every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 200 mg in one day.

Dosage for specific age groups

• Adolescents (14 years and older): a dose of 50 to 100 mg daily, divided into one or two doses, is usually sufficient. The maximum dose of 150 mg per day should not be exceeded.
• Children (under 14 years): Adwiflam 50 mg is not recommended for use in children under 14 years of age.
• Elderly (65 years and older): No initial dose adjustment is generally required, but extreme caution should be exercised, especially with frail or low-weight patients.

Contraindications: Who should avoid Adwiflam?

There are certain conditions in which the use of Adwiflam is completely contraindicated due to the serious health risks it may cause. These contraindications include:

• Hypersensitivity: known hypersensitivity to diclofenac or any of the other ingredients of the medication, or to other NSAIDs such as aspirin or ibuprofen.
• Active gastric or intestinal ulcer: or gastrointestinal bleeding or perforation.
• History of gastrointestinal bleeding: especially if related to previous use of NSAIDs.
• History of recurrent peptic ulcer.
• Last trimester of pregnancy (last three months): as it may cause problems for the fetus and delay labor.
• Severe liver failure.
• Severe renal failure (glomerular filtration rate < 15 ml/min).
• Severe congestive heart failure (NYHA II-IV).
• Ischemic heart disease (such as angina pectoris or myocardial infarction).
• Peripheral arterial disease.
• Cerebrovascular disease (such as stroke).

Main Warnings and Precautions

Adwiflam should be handled with caution in many cases to minimize potential risks.

Gastrointestinal risks

• All NSAIDs, including diclofenac, can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration, or perforation, which can be fatal.
• The risk increases with higher doses, prolonged use, in the elderly, and in patients with a history of ulcers.
• Caution is advised when used with other drugs that increase the risk of bleeding, such as corticosteroids, anticoagulants (warfarin), or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Cardiovascular risks

• The use of diclofenac may be associated with a slight increase in the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially when used at high doses (150 mg daily) and for long periods.
• Patients with uncontrolled hypertension, mild congestive heart failure, or cardiovascular risk factors (such as diabetes or high cholesterol) should only use Adwiflam after careful consideration.
• The lowest effective dose should be used for the shortest possible duration.

Effects on the liver and kidneys

• Adwiflam may cause an increase in liver enzymes. Liver function should be monitored regularly during long-term treatment.
• Caution should be exercised in patients with renal or cardiac impairment, the elderly, or those taking diuretics, as the drug may cause fluid retention and deterioration of renal function.

Skin reactions

• Very rare, serious skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), have been reported. The drug should be stopped immediately at the first sign of a skin rash.

Pregnancy and lactation

• Pregnancy: Adwiflam should not be used during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy unless the expected benefit outweighs the potential risks to the fetus. It is completely contraindicated in the last trimester.
• Lactation: Diclofenac passes into breast milk in very small amounts. To avoid undesirable effects on the infant, it should not be taken during breastfeeding.

Potential Side Effects

Like all medicines, Adwiflam can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

• Common side effects (affect 1 to 10 in every 100 people):
  • Headache, dizziness.
  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion, abdominal pain, flatulence.
  • Loss of appetite.
  • Elevated liver enzymes.
  • Skin rash.
• Rare side effects (affect 1 to 10 in every 10,000 people):
  • Hypersensitivity reactions (asthma, anaphylactic shock).
  • Drowsiness.
  • Gastritis, gastrointestinal bleeding.
  • Liver function disorders, jaundice.
  • Oedema (fluid retention).
• Very rare side effects (affect less than 1 in every 10,000 people):
  • Thrombocytopenia, anemia.
  • Insomnia, depression, anxiety.
  • Blurred vision.
  • Hypertension.
  • Colitis, pancreatitis.
  • Acute renal failure.

Frequently Asked Questions about Adwiflam

What is Adwiflam and what is its active ingredient?

Adwiflam is a powerful pain reliever and anti-inflammatory belonging to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) family. Its main active ingredient is diclofenac potassium at a concentration of 50 mg, which is responsible for its therapeutic effect. This medicine is characterized by being in the form of an effervescent powder, which speeds up its absorption in the body. Therefore, its action begins faster compared to traditional tablets. It is primarily used for the short-term treatment of acute pain.

We recommend it as an effective option for dealing with severe pain attacks that require a rapid response. The drug works by reducing the production of chemicals in the body that cause pain and inflammation. This dual effect makes it suitable for conditions such as post-operative pain and sports injuries. It is also considered one of the first-line options for treating severe menstrual pain and migraines. It is always essential to consult a doctor to determine if this medication is the most suitable for your condition.

When does Adwiflam effervescent powder start to work?

Adwiflam effervescent powder starts working remarkably quickly, which is one of its most important therapeutic features. Generally, most patients feel the onset of pain relief within 15 to 30 minutes after taking the dose. This rapid effect is due to the fast-dissolving nature of diclofenac potassium and its formulation as a powder to be dissolved in water. This allows the gastrointestinal tract to absorb the active ingredient almost instantly. Thus, it is an ideal option for urgent situations like acute migraine attacks.

To achieve the fastest absorption, it is preferable to take Adwiflam on an empty stomach, i.e., before meals. Taking the medicine with food may cause a slight delay in its onset of action, but it does not affect its overall effectiveness. This property makes it superior to other forms of diclofenac that may take longer to work. We always advise following the doctor’s instructions on the appropriate time to take the dose.

Can Adwiflam be used for toothache?

Yes, Adwiflam is a very effective option for relieving severe toothache, especially that associated with inflammation. Whether the pain is caused by nerve inflammation, an abscess, or after dental procedures like a wisdom tooth extraction, Adwiflam provides quick relief. Its ability to fight inflammation helps reduce swelling around the affected tooth. Its rapid onset of action also makes it suitable for controlling acute pain that may appear suddenly.

However, it is important to emphasize that Adwiflam is only a symptomatic treatment and not a solution to the underlying problem. The patient must visit a dentist to determine the cause of the pain and treat it at its root. The medication can be used as a temporary solution until necessary medical care is obtained. It should not be relied upon for long periods without medical consultation to avoid potential risks.

What is the recommended dose of Adwiflam for migraines?

To treat acute migraine attacks, we recommend following a specific dosage protocol to ensure efficacy and safety. An initial dose of 50 mg (one sachet) should be taken immediately upon the first symptoms of the attack or visual aura. Waiting until the pain intensifies may reduce the drug’s effectiveness. It is important to take the dose as quickly as possible for the best results.

If the patient does not feel sufficient improvement within two hours of the first dose, an additional dose of 50 mg can be taken. If needed, further doses of 50 mg can be repeated every 4 to 6 hours. The total daily dose should not exceed 200 mg (four sachets) within 24 hours. This medication is intended for the acute treatment of attacks, not for prevention.

Is Adwiflam safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women?

The use of Adwiflam should be handled with extreme caution during pregnancy and lactation. The drug is strictly contraindicated during the last trimester of pregnancy (the last three months). It can cause premature closure of the ductus arteriosus in the fetal heart, kidney problems, and delayed or prolonged labor. It may also affect platelet function in both the mother and the fetus.

During the first and second trimesters of pregnancy, it should only be used if the expected benefit to the mother clearly outweighs the potential risks to the fetus, and this must be under strict medical supervision and at the lowest possible dose. As for breastfeeding, diclofenac passes into breast milk in small amounts, and to avoid any negative effects on the infant, it is preferable not to use it. A doctor should always be consulted before taking any medication during pregnancy or lactation.

What are the most serious side effects of Adwiflam?

Despite its effectiveness, Adwiflam is associated with some serious side effects that require awareness and caution. Among the most serious are those affecting the gastrointestinal system, as it can cause bleeding, ulceration, or perforation of the stomach or intestines. These complications can be life-threatening and sometimes occur without warning. This risk is significantly higher in the elderly and with high doses.

Additionally, the use of diclofenac is associated with a slight increase in the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes, especially with prolonged use and high doses. Rare but very serious skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, have also been reported. If any unusual symptoms are observed, such as black stools, vomiting blood, or chest pain, you should stop taking the drug and seek immediate medical help.

Does Adwiflam interact with other medications?

Yes, Adwiflam can interact with many other drugs, which may alter their effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. It is very important to inform your doctor or pharmacist of all the medications you are taking. The most notable drug interactions are with anticoagulants such as warfarin, where the risk of bleeding increases significantly. It also interacts with other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like aspirin and ibuprofen), which multiplies the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.

Caution should also be exercised when taking it with lithium and digoxin, as it can raise their blood levels to toxic limits. Adwiflam may reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive drugs and diuretics. When used with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding increases. This is not a complete list, so medical consultation is always necessary.

Does Adwiflam cause stomach problems?

Yes, stomach problems are among the most common and serious side effects of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug group, including Adwiflam. The drug works by inhibiting prostaglandins, which are substances that not only cause pain and inflammation but also play a vital role in protecting the stomach lining. When these substances are inhibited, the stomach lining becomes more susceptible to damage from acids.

Patients may experience mild symptoms such as indigestion, heartburn, or abdominal pain. However, in more serious cases, it can lead to gastritis, peptic ulcers, or even bleeding and perforation. To reduce this risk, we recommend taking the medication at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest possible duration. A doctor may prescribe stomach-protecting drugs such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for patients at high risk.

What is the difference between Adwiflam and other types of diclofenac?

The main difference between Adwiflam and other types of diclofenac lies in the salt used and the speed of action. Adwiflam contains diclofenac potassium, a salt that is rapidly dissolved and absorbed, causing it to start working very quickly (usually within 15-30 minutes). This makes it ideal for conditions requiring rapid pain relief, such as migraines and acute menstrual pain.

In contrast, other products like “Voltaren” often contain diclofenac sodium, which is absorbed more slowly. There are also sustained-release (SR) formulations designed to release the drug slowly throughout the day, which are suitable for chronic conditions like arthritis. In short, Adwiflam is intended for acute pain, while other forms may be better for chronic pain.

For whom is the use of Adwiflam contraindicated?

The use of Adwiflam is strictly forbidden for certain groups of patients to avoid serious health risks. First, it is prohibited for anyone with a known allergy to diclofenac, aspirin, or any other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. It is also forbidden for patients suffering from an active peptic ulcer or bleeding in the stomach or intestines. Patients with a previous history of these conditions, especially if related to medication use, must avoid it.

It is also contraindicated for patients with severe heart, liver, or kidney failure. Additionally, it is prohibited for patients with established cardiovascular diseases such as ischemic heart disease (heart attacks), peripheral arterial disease, or stroke. Finally, its use is considered absolutely forbidden in the last trimester of pregnancy. Medical consultation is always necessary to determine the safety of the drug for each individual.