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Diclofenac sodium gel is a medication used to treat joint pain caused by arthritis. It is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by blocking the production of substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation. Diclofenac sodium gel is available as a 1% gel (Voltaren Arthritis Pain) that can be applied to the skin to relieve pain in the knees, ankles, feet, elbows, wrists, and hands. It is important to note that this medication may cause side effects such as redness, itching, rash, dry skin, and stomach bleeding. In rare cases, it can also increase the risk of heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and liver damage. While it is not specifically mentioned whether Diclofenac sodium gel 3% can cause muscle pain, sources indicate that it should not be applied to the back, hips, or shoulders, and is not approved for the relief of back pain, including muscle pain.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Diclofenac sodium gel is used to treat pain and inflammation due to arthritis, osteoarthritis, and actinic keratosis (a skin condition). |
| Mechanism of Action | Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that blocks the production of prostaglandins, substances that cause pain and inflammation. |
| Side Effects | Redness, itching, rash, dry skin, scaling, peeling, stomach ulcers, bleeding, heart attack symptoms, liver injury symptoms, and joint or muscle pain. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Avoid freezing. |
| Application | Apply at the same time(s) every day as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Do not apply extra gel to make up for a missed dose. |
| Brand Names | Voltaren, Voltaren Arthritis Pain, Solaraze, Pennsaid, Emugel. |
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What You'll Learn
Diclofenac sodium gel is used to treat arthritis
Diclofenac sodium gel is a medication used to treat arthritis of the knee. It belongs to a group of medications called NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), which work by reducing inflammation. Diclofenac sodium gel is applied topically to the skin, and it can be used to treat osteoarthritis of the knees, ankles, feet, elbows, wrists, and hands. It is important to follow the directions on the prescription label and apply the gel to clean, dry skin.
Diclofenac sodium gel can also be used to treat actinic keratosis, which are flat, scaly growths on the skin caused by too much sun exposure. The gel should be stored at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C), and should not be frozen.
While diclofenac sodium gel is effective in treating arthritis pain, it is important to be aware of potential side effects. Some common side effects include redness, itching, rash, dry skin, scaling, or peeling at the application site. More severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), can also occur and require immediate medical attention.
Additionally, diclofenac sodium gel may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially in those with heart disease or when used in conjunction with aspirin. Other possible side effects include stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, confusion, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, and nervousness. If any of these symptoms occur, it is important to consult a healthcare provider immediately.
Diclofenac sodium gel can be an effective treatment for arthritis, but it is important to use it as directed and be vigilant for any potential side effects. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new medication to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
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It can cause serious skin reactions
Diclofenac sodium gel can cause serious skin reactions. It is important to be aware of these reactions and to know what to do if they occur.
Firstly, it is recommended that you do not apply the gel to any areas of broken, peeling, infected, or swollen skin, or areas covered with a rash. Diclofenac gel should only be applied to clean, dry skin.
Serious skin reactions can include Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), which can be life-threatening if not treated. Symptoms of these reactions include painful red or purple skin that peels off, a flat red rash, and blisters on the skin, mouth, nose, and genitals. Other serious skin reactions include exfoliative dermatitis, fixed drug eruption (FDE), and generalized bullous fixed drug eruption (GBFDE).
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should contact your healthcare provider right away:
- Blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin
- Chills, cough, diarrhea, itching, joint or muscle pain
- Red irritated eyes, red skin lesions, sore throat, sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips
- Unusual tiredness or weakness
- Fever or flu-like symptoms with a rash
It is important to be vigilant and seek medical help if you experience any unusual problems or serious side effects while using this medication.
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It may cause stomach pain and bleeding
Diclofenac sodium topical gel is a medication that treats arthritis by reducing inflammation in the joints. It is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can be purchased over the counter under the brand name Voltaren Arthritis Pain. It is applied directly to the skin over the affected joint.
Diclofenac sodium gel may cause stomach pain and bleeding. This is because diclofenac is an NSAID, which may cause severe stomach bleeding. The risk of stomach pain and bleeding is higher if you are also taking other drugs containing prescription or nonprescription NSAIDs (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen), or if you consume three or more alcoholic drinks per day while using this product.
If you experience stomach pain or bleeding while taking diclofenac, call your care team right away. These symptoms may be accompanied by blood in your vomit or stool. In addition, you may experience other symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including confusion, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, nausea, or vomiting. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Diclofenac sodium gel can also cause other side effects, such as redness, itching, rash, dry skin, scaling, or peeling at the application site. It can also cause more serious skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), which can lead to death if not treated. If you experience any side effects, tell your healthcare provider, and they can help determine if diclofenac is right for you.
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Diclofenac sodium gel can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke
Diclofenac sodium gel is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for the relief of moderate pain and inflammation. It is commonly used to treat arthritis of the knee. Diclofenac sodium gel is applied topically to the skin and works by blocking certain substances in the body (prostaglandins) that cause pain and inflammation.
While Diclofenac sodium gel is generally considered safe for most people, recent studies have suggested a potential link between the use of this medication and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. This risk is particularly prominent with long-term, high-dose usage and in patients who already have a high risk of cardiovascular events. The European Medicines Agency's Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee has acknowledged this heightened risk and has recommended updates to the treatment advice for Diclofenac.
It is important to note that the risk of cardiovascular events associated with Diclofenac sodium gel usage is small and the overall benefit-to-risk ratio remains positive. However, certain individuals with specific health conditions may be more susceptible to this risk. These conditions include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, kidney problems, and smoking. Additionally, elderly patients are more likely to experience age-related kidney, heart, or stomach problems, which may require adjustments to the dosage.
To mitigate the risk of cardiovascular events, it is recommended to use the lowest effective dose of Diclofenac sodium gel for the shortest duration required to manage symptoms. Patients receiving long-term treatment with Diclofenac should be periodically reviewed for effectiveness, adverse effects, and the development of cardiovascular risk factors. Monitoring blood pressure, haemoglobin levels, and renal function can help identify potential issues early on.
In summary, while Diclofenac sodium gel can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, particularly with prolonged high-dose usage, this risk is small and the medication remains beneficial for managing pain and inflammation. It is crucial to carefully assess individual risk factors and follow the recommended dosage guidelines to ensure safe and effective use.
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It may cause an allergic reaction
Diclofenac sodium gel can cause an allergic reaction, including a specific type of allergic reaction called DRESS (Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms). This is a reaction that can affect multiple parts of the body, including the liver, kidneys, and heart.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:
- Skin rash, itching, hives, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
- Trouble breathing or swallowing.
- Redness, soreness, scaling, and peeling of the affected skin.
- Pain or tightness in the chest, shoulders, arms, or jaw.
- Nausea, shortness of breath, and cold or clammy skin.
- Serious skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN), can also occur and can lead to death if not treated. These reactions can cause painful red or purple skin that peels off, as well as blisters on the skin, mouth, nose, and genitals.
- Diclofenac sodium gel can also increase the risk of a heart attack or stroke, which can be life-threatening.
If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the medication and seek medical help immediately. It is important to contact your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about the medication and its potential side effects.
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Frequently asked questions
Diclofenac Sodium Gel 3 is used to treat osteoarthritis and actinic keratosis. It is also used to reduce pain and inflammation in the knees, ankles, feet, elbows, wrists, and hands.
Diclofenac Sodium Gel 3 can cause redness, itching, rash, dry skin, scaling, or peeling at the application site. It may also cause more severe skin reactions such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN).
Yes, Diclofenac Sodium Gel 3 can cause muscle pain in some people. If you experience this side effect, consult your healthcare provider.
Diclofenac Sodium Gel 3 contains an NSAID, which may increase the risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. It may also cause stomach bleeding and liver damage. People with certain underlying medical conditions should consult their doctor before using this medication.
If you experience any side effects from Diclofenac Sodium Gel 3, stop using the medication and consult your healthcare provider immediately. You may also report serious side effects to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program.
