Can Liver Cancer Patients Use Diclofenac Sodium Sustained-Release Capsules for Pain Relief?

Diclofenac sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) primarily used for its analgesic and antipyretic properties. For cancer patients experiencing mild pain, it serves as a foundational option in pain management protocols. If this medication effectively alleviates the discomfort associated with liver cancer, it can be appropriately utilized at the initial stage of treatment.

In oncology, pain management often follows a three-step analgesic ladder recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). At the first step, non-opioid analgesics like diclofenac sodium are preferred. If these prove insufficient, the treatment may progress to the second step, which involves weak opioids such as tramadol. Finally, for severe or refractory pain, strong opioids like morphine are introduced at the third step.

It's important to note that if a patient finds relief with diclofenac sodium, there is generally no need to escalate to stronger medications. However, should the pain persist or intensify, healthcare providers may consider stepping up the treatment plan accordingly.

Each patient's experience with pain is unique, and therefore, individualized pain management strategies are crucial. Factors such as the patient's overall health, the severity of the disease, and their sensitivity to pain must all be considered when selecting the appropriate analgesic regimen. The ultimate goal remains consistent: to ensure the patient's comfort and significantly reduce their suffering.