How should diclofenac, an NSAID, be administered to minimize gastric irritation?

Administering diclofenac with food or milk is important for minimizing gastric irritation, a common side effect associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Taking NSAIDs on an empty stomach can increase the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort and possible damage to the gastric mucosa. Food or milk acts as a protective barrier that helps to buffer the stomach lining against the acidity of the medication, reducing the likelihood of irritation. Additionally, this practice can enhance the tolerability of the medication, making it easier for patients to adhere to their prescribed treatment regimen. The formulation of the drug itself may also benefit from the presence of food, potentially affecting absorption rates differently when taken with or without fat or other nutrients.

Choosing options that suggest taking the medication on an empty stomach, with an antacid, or simply with a glass of water would not provide the same protective effect against gastric irritation. While water is typically a safe choice for taking medications, it does not offer the buffering effect that food or milk does, which is essential in this context to mitigate the risks associated with NSAID use.