Abstract

In our article Managing Postoperative Pain (1 February, page 11), we wrongly suggest that diclofenac (Voltarol) and piroxicam (Feldene) are similarly long-acting. Whilst the terminal half-life of diclofenac is around 2 hours, the duration of action of oral diclofenac, and so its frequency of administration, vary depending on the formulation. Voltarol Retard, like piroxicam, can be given once daily. However, Voltarol SR may need to be given twice daily and conventional Voltarol up to three times daily.