As a painkiller: a review of pre- and postnatal non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug exposure effects on the nervous systems

Diclofenac sodium (DS) is commonly used for the treatment of acute and chronic pain, even for extended periods of time. Over the years, DS has been associated with toxicity in nervous tissue, in addition to its anti-inflammatory properties. Basic neurobiological research has enhanced our understanding of the biological and pathological outcomes of toxicity. Several studies have suggested DS-induced cytotoxicity in the nervous system. Prenatal toxicities of DS are thought to be capable of leading to postnatal defects. This review describes the morphoquantitative, histological and pathological effects of DS on the central and peripheral nervous systems. Knowledge of these effects may assist with the development of a suitable therapeutic approach. In addition, understanding the mechanism of DS-dependent neuronal impairments may contribute to selection of appropriate antioxidant therapy.