Effects of diclofenac sodium and He:Ne laser irradiation on plasmatic fibrinogen levels in inflammatory processes

Objective: The aim of the present work was to determine the possible synergic effect on the concentration of plasma fibrinogen (PF) by injecting diclofenac sodium associated with laser therapy postsurgery. Summary Background Data: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and He:Ne laser irradiation as a therapy were used to inhibit the effects generated by inflammation, Tissue injury produces significant increases in PF levels, which are reduced to normal values by administration of NSAIDs or laser irradiation of the injured zone. Materials and Methods: Rats were divided into groups in which different presurgical and postsurgical treatment were used; the inflammation was induced by laparotomy. Results: Parenteral diclofenac or He:Ne laser irradiation used separately in normal rats did not produce changes in the PF levels. Diclofenac and laser irradiation combined postsurgery produced a significant reduction of PF levels compared with normal values, or with groups that were injected or irradiated postsurgically. Conclusion: The inflammatory response could be reduced by the effect of the diclofenac sodium upon the COX-2/COX-1 inhibitory relation associated with the photobiological effect of the He:Ne laser.