Diacerein

Diacerein — Uses and Benefits

Diacerein is mainly prescribed for painful joint conditions caused by cartilage damage and inflammation.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Osteoarthritis of the knee
• Osteoarthritis of the hip
• Long-term joint pain and stiffness linked to cartilage degeneration

HOW IT WORKS

• Blocks a chemical messenger called interleukin-1 (IL-1) that drives joint inflammation
• Reduces enzymes that break down cartilage
• Helps slow progression of joint damage over time, though it takes several weeks to show effect

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not used for quick or immediate pain relief
• Not a substitute for painkillers in acute injury or sudden severe pain
• Not used for rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune joint diseases
• Not recommended for children

How to Use Diacerein

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually with food to reduce stomach upset
• Swallow the capsule whole with water; do not chew or crush
• Diarrhoea is common in the first few weeks and often settles with continued use; inform your doctor if it is severe
• Effects on pain and stiffness may take several weeks to appear, so continue the course as advised
• Do not increase the dose on your own even if you feel it is not working quickly

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and continue as usual
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat, light and moisture
• Keep in the original packaging
• Keep out of reach and sight of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Diacerein — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Loose stools or diarrhoea (very common when starting)
• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Nausea

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Skin rash or itching
• Darkening or brownish colour of urine
• Flatulence or bloating

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, severe fatigue (signs of liver problems)
• Severe or persistent watery diarrhoea leading to dehydration
• Severe skin reaction with blistering or peeling
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of face/lips/throat, difficulty breathing

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Diacerein — Safety Information and Precautions

Diacerein is a prescription-only medicine in India and should be used only under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to diacerein or any of its ingredients
• Have active liver disease or a history of liver problems caused by diacerein
• Have severe intestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless specifically advised by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have any existing liver disease
• Have a history of chronic diarrhoea or bowel disorders
• Are elderly or have other chronic illnesses
• Are taking other medicines, including herbal or over-the-counter products
• Are planning pregnancy or are breastfeeding

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other medicines that affect the liver
• Laxatives, as combined use may worsen diarrhoea
• Activated charcoal or antacids taken at the same time may reduce absorption; space out timing as advised
• Any new prescription or over-the-counter medicine — always inform your doctor or pharmacist

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does diacerein take to work?

It usually takes 2 to 4 weeks of regular use before you notice improvement in joint pain and stiffness.

Can I stop taking it once my pain improves?

Do not stop without consulting your doctor, as stopping early may reduce the long-term benefit for your joint condition.

Will it cause loose motions every time I take it?

• Diarrhoea is common, especially in the first few weeks, but it usually settles with continued use; tell your doctor if it is severe or persistent.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.