[Intramuscular application of diclofenac--case report and critical consideration of a therapeutic measure].

Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug of the phenylacetic class. It is frequently given as an intramuscular injection. However several, sometimes severe, side effects have been described after an i.m. administration. Based on a short case report about a fatal complication in the context of the i.m. administration of diclofenac, the arguments for and against the intramuscular injection of the drug are critically discussed. As a result, the administration of diclofenac as an intramuscular injection should be critically reviewed and alternatives -- as suppositories are available -- should be taken into account.