Diclofenac is a widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for pain, inflammation, and fever, effective in relieving various conditions but also associated with significant side effects, including cardiovascular risks. Its mechanism involves blocking prostaglandin production, yet a recent study highlights concerns regarding its safety linked to the UGT2B17 enzyme, which varies significantly among individuals. The research, published in Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics, reveals that UGT2B17 plays a critical role in diclofenac metabolism, being present at lower levels in women and largely absent in young children. This variability may contribute to the drug’s differential efficacy and the risk of adverse effects, particularly heart damage.
In the U.S., diclofenac was available over-the-counter until 2013, when it became prescription-only due to safety concerns. The authors suggest that genetic testing could help healthcare providers assess the risk of side effects before prescribing diclofenac, tailoring treatment to individual patients. Ongoing studies aim to confirm these findings through clinical trials, potentially informing safer prescribing practices and dosing guidelines across diverse populations.
