Diacerein: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan

Diacerein is a slow-acting medicine for osteoarthritis. It is a prescription medicine used for osteoarthritis of the knee and hip. In Pakistan it is available as capsules and tablets, made by 8 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.

How Diacerein works

Diacerein blocks interleukin-1, a chemical messenger involved in inflammation and in the breakdown of joint cartilage. By damping down this process it may ease pain and slow some of the changes in the joint, with benefits building up over several weeks.

What is Diacerein used for?

• Osteoarthritis of the knee and hip

Diacerein is used to relieve the symptoms of osteoarthritis of the hip and knee, such as pain and stiffness. It is a slow-acting treatment, so it does not give quick relief, and painkillers may still be needed during the first weeks. Because of its side effects, its use is limited to adults under 65, and a doctor experienced in treating osteoarthritis should decide whether it is suitable.

Side effects of Diacerein

Bowel changes are the most common problem with Diacerein. Side effects include:

• Diarrhoea or loose stools
• Stomach pain
• Yellow or brown discolouration of the urine
• Wind
• Itching or rash

Stop taking it and contact your doctor if diarrhoea is severe or persistent, as this can lead to dehydration. Seek help for yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine with pale stools, or ongoing abdominal pain.

Precautions and warnings

• It is not recommended for people aged 65 or over, or for anyone with liver disease.
• Stop it if diarrhoea develops and speak to your doctor; it should not be taken with laxatives.
• Your doctor may check your liver function during treatment.
• Benefits appear only after several weeks, so keep taking it as prescribed.
• It is not advised in pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Frequently asked questions about Diacerein

What is the price of Diacerein in Pakistan?

At Medimart, Diacerein products currently in stock range from Rs 61 to Rs 2,095 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Dicerin 50mg Capsule at Rs 61. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.

Which brands of Diacerein are available in Pakistan?

Diacerein is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Dicerin (Genome Pharmaceuticals Ltd), Diaroxx (Atco Laboratories Ltd), Macrin (Mcolson Research Labotraies), Artrodar (Highnoon Laboratories Ltd), Diarox (Atco Laboratories Ltd), Dycer (Bloom Pharma), Karty (CCL Pharmaceuticals Ltd) and Diora (Getz Pharma Ltd Pharma), along with 1 more brands listed below.

Do I need a prescription for Diacerein?

Yes. Diacerein is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.

Can Diacerein be used during pregnancy?

It is not advised in pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Are all Diacerein brands the same?

Brands that contain the same amount of Diacerein in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.

Diacerein brands and prices in Pakistan

Medimart lists 12 products containing Diacerein from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.

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