Diclofenac Use in Pediatric Patients

Introduction to Diclofenac in Pediatrics

• The American Academy of Pediatrics and other guideline societies suggest that for juvenile idiopathic arthritis, naproxen is the preferred NSAID due to its established efficacy and safety profile in children, although diclofenac can be considered at physician discretion 1
• Naproxen has a better-established safety profile in children, FDA/EMA approval for pediatric use, and evidence-supported efficacy in juvenile arthritis, making it a preferred alternative to diclofenac 1

Monitoring and Contraindications

• Before prescribing diclofenac, obtain thorough history including cardiovascular risk factors, GI bleeding history, renal function, and hepatic function, and measure baseline blood pressure, serum creatinine, liver enzymes, and CBC, as recommended by dermatology guidelines 3