For what diclofenac gel is used?
Diclofenac is used to treat pain and other symptoms of arthritis of the joints (eg, osteoarthritis), such as inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain. However, this medicine does not cure osteoarthritis and will help you only as long as you continue to use it.
Is it safe to use diclofenac sodium topical gel?
Diclofenac gel is a safe and effective option for treating joint pain, especially in cases of arthritis. It can also be used to treat acute neck pain, back pain, tendonitis, and sprains and strains.
Where should you not use Voltaren gel?
Do not use cosmetics, sunscreen, lotions, insect repellant, or other medicated skin products on the same area you treat with Voltaren Arthritis Pain gel. Avoid exposing treated skin to heat, sunlight, or tanning beds. Avoid getting Voltaren Arthritis Pain gel near your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Who should not use diclofenac sodium topical gel?
tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant; or are breast-feeding. Diclofenac may harm the fetus and cause problems with delivery if it is used around 20 weeks or later during pregnancy. Do not use diclofenac topical around or after 20 weeks of pregnancy, unless you are told to do so by your doctor.
How quickly does diclofenac gel work?
If you’re using diclofenac gel, plasters or patches on your skin, it usually takes 1 to 2 days to work. For arthritis, you may need to use the gel for up to 7 days on the painful joint to feel the full effect. Depending on why you’re taking diclofenac, you may only need to take it for a short time.
Can you use diclofenac gel anywhere?
To use the topical solution: Use this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor. It will work only if applied correctly. Do not apply this medicine anywhere on your body other than where your doctor tells you.
What happens if you use too much diclofenac gel?
Taking too much diclofenac sodium does not usually cause serious problems. The person may have some stomach pain and vomiting (possibly with blood). However, these symptoms will likely get better. In rare cases, a blood transfusion is needed.
Why do doctors not prescribe diclofenac?
The Feb. 12, 2013 study in PLoS Medicine (2013;10:e1001388) indicates that diclofenac use can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke in patients with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol or other high risk factors for cardiovascular problems.
Why was Voltaren taken off the market?
Canadian and British researchers are calling for the anti-inflammatory diclofenac to be pulled from the market worldwide because of its heart risks. Diclofenac is sold under a variety of brand names including Voltaren and is widely used for pain such as headaches, toothaches and arthritis.
Why cant I use Voltaren on my hip?
Voltaren gel is approved for use on arm and leg joints only. It has not been studied for use in the hips or spine. You should not use Voltaren gel to treat muscle pain in other areas of the body, such as the lower back.
Why was diclofenac taken off the market?
A similar drug called rofecoxib (Vioxx), in the same non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug family (NSAIDs) as diclofenac, was voluntarily taken off the market by its manufacturer in 2004 amid concerns over associated heart risks. There is an ongoing Europe-wide review of diclofenac’s safety.
How often can you apply diclofenac gel?
Adults—Apply 2 grams (g) to the affected skin areas four times a day (a total of 8 g each day). However, the total dose should not exceed 32 g per day over all affected joints. Use the enclosed dosing card to measure the appropriate dose. Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
How often can I use diclofenac gel?
How long can you take diclofenac gel?
For arthritis, you may need to use the gel for up to 7 days on the painful joint to feel the full effect. Depending on why you’re taking diclofenac, you may only need to take it for a short time. For example, if you have a sore back or toothache, you may only need to take diclofenac for 1 or 2 days.
Is there an over the counter equivalent to diclofenac?
In the USA only the lower strength tablet ibuprofen 200mg is available over the counter (OTC), the 400mg and 600mg tablets are prescription medicines. Diclofenac is only available by prescription in the USA but in some countries a lower dose 25mg tablet is available OTC.
What happens if you use too much Voltaren Gel?
Symptoms of overdose/swallowing may include: severe stomach pain, change in the amount of urine, slow/shallow breathing. Do not share this medication with others.
Why can’t I use Voltaren on my shoulder?
Why can’t I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel for shoulders, hips, etc.? Voltaren has not been studied for the relief of arthritis pain in the shoulders, hips, and back.
What happens if you use too much Voltaren gel?
Can you still get diclofenac gel on prescription?
Diclofenac comes as tablets and capsules, including slow-release tablets and capsules, and suppositories. These are available on prescription only. Diclofenac gel and plasters for joint pain are available to buy from pharmacies. It can also be given as an injection or as eyedrops.
How often can you use diclofenac gel?
Adults—Apply 4 grams (g) to the affected skin areas four times a day (a total of 16 g each day). However, the total dose should not exceed 32 g per day over all affected joints. Use the enclosed dosing card to measure the appropriate dose.
Can you overdose on diclofenac gel?
Diclofenac sodium is a prescription medicine used to relieve pain and swelling. It is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Diclofenac sodium overdose occurs when someone takes more than the normal or recommended amount of this medicine. This can be by accident or on purpose.
Does diclofenac gel have side effects?
Stop using diclofenac and get medical help right away if you notice any of the following rare but very serious side effects: stomach/abdominal pain that doesn’t go away, black/bloody stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, chest/jaw/left arm pain, shortness of breath, unusual sweating, confusion, weakness on one …
Why is diclofenac no longer prescribed?
A 25mg diclofenac tablet used to be available OTC in the USA but was withdrawn because of safety and efficacy reasons. Both ibuprofen and diclofenac are in a group of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They work by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body.
Can you become addicted to diclofenac?
Is it addictive? No, diclofenac is not addictive, but it’s important to always take it as prescribed. What will happen if I stop taking it? When you stop taking diclofenac tablets or capsules, or stop using the suppositories, the effects will wear off after about 15 hours.