Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is sometimes used to treat headache, including those associated with sinusitis (sinus headache). Its use for headache relief is supported by its mechanism of action: Diclofenac inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, thereby reducing the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are mediators of inflammation and pain. This makes it effective in reducing both the pain and inflammation that can accompany sinus headaches.

Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of diclofenac for various types of headaches, especially migraines and tension-type headaches. For example, randomized controlled trials have shown that oral and rectal diclofenac can relieve acute migraine attacks. However, specific studies evaluating diclofenac for sinus headache are limited. The underlying rationale is that since sinus headaches are often due to inflammation of the sinus mucosa, NSAIDs like diclofenac may help reduce both the inflammatory process and the associated pain.

Despite the plausible mechanism and some clinical evidence for headache relief, the evidence specific to sinus headache is not robust. Guidelines typically recommend NSAIDs, including diclofenac, as symptomatic treatment for pain in acute sinusitis, but they are not curative or specific for sinus headache. Overall, the scientific validation for diclofenac in sinus headache is moderate, based more on extrapolation from general headache and inflammation data than on direct clinical trials for this particular indication.

More about Diclofenac
More about Headache (sinus)

Other ingredients used for Headache (sinus)

Other health conditions supported by Diclofenac

Products containing Diclofenac