Supported by an unrestricted education grant from Haleon Australia Pty Ltd.

Learning objectives

After reading this article, pharmacists should be able to: 

  • Identify indications for over-the-counter supply of diclofenac and requirements associated with its supply
  • Discuss safety considerations associated with diclofenac
  • Describe clinical factors that pharmacists need to consider when determining if diclofenac is appropriate for a patient.

Competencies (2016) addressed: 1.1, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 3.1, 3.2, 3.5, 3.6

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Introduction

Pharmacists are well equipped to assist patients who request treatment for pain. This article discusses the role of the pharmacist in the appropriate supply of over-the-counter diclofenac for management of pain.

Pain in perspective

Pain is subjective. While no two people experience pain in exactly the same way, it is very common. Data indicates that in 2020–21, 71.1% of Australian adults experienced recent bodily pain and for 6.4% of those people it was severe or very severe.1 Pain can have an important, negative impact on overall quality of life, including emotional and social interactions and ability to function at work.1,2 It has been estimated that chronic pain cost the Australian economy more than $139 billion in 2018.3

Australians tend to self-diagnose and self-manage their pain, with many opting to use non-prescription medicines. W

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