Diclofenac for treatment of nocturia caused by nocturnal polyuria: a prospective, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the efficacy of diclofenac 50 mg enteric-coated tablet (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug) in the treatment of nocturnal polyuria.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

26 patients (20 male and 6 female) with a mean age of 72 years (range 52-90) diagnosed with nocturnal polyuria were recruited. The study period comprised 2 weeks of either placebo or active medication taken at 2100 h. Following one-week rest period, patients were crossed over to the other medication for a further 2 weeks. Frequency volume charts were completed during the second week of each of the two study periods along with feedback forms to assess any subjective improvement in symptoms during each of the study periods.

RESULTS

A significant improvement in the symptoms was noted for diclofenac when compared with the placebo. The mean nocturnal frequency decreased from 2.7 to 2.3 (p<0.004) and the mean ratio of night-time to 24 h urine volume decreased from 44% to 39% (p<0.001). No significant side effects were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

NSAIDs are effective in the treatment of nocturnal polyuria causing a decrease in nocturnal frequency with subjective symptom improvement. Our study suggests a novel treatment option for this common condition.