Voltaren is the brand name of the generic drug Diclofenac which is an NSAID or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals. It is available in a topical gel form (“Voltaren Gel”) or immediate release tablets of 50 mg, delayed release tablets of 25, 50, and 75 mg and extended release tablets of 100 mg.
Uses
Voltaren is used to treat:
- Osteoarthritis
- Arthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Psoriasis
- Spondylarthritis
- Ankylosing Spondylitis
- Gout
- Dysmenorrhea
- Pain relief for kidney stones, gallstones, migraine
- Fibromyalgia
- Back pain
- Sciatica
Action
This drug acts by inhibiting the synthesis of prostaglandins which are the chemicals that cause inflammation. The drug acts on the enzymes responsible for the production of these chemicals and with the reduction in the inflammation, the swelling, fever and pain decrease. It is not really known how precisely it acts on these enzymes but the resulting reduction of inflammation is very obvious.
Side Effects
Though it isn’t every one who takes this drug who experiences side effects, some people do and in most cases, the effects are seen in the abdominal area. There could be stomach ache, nausea and vomiting, cramping and burning, bloating and gas and maybe even bleeding in the stomach and intestine. The stools and urine could be dark colored and there could be kidney and liver problems. Other side effects are blurred vision, lack of hunger, lightheadedness, dizziness and shortness of breath. Fluid retention could mean the hands and feet swell up and in serious cases, there could be heart attacks, elevated blood pressure, blood clots and seizures.
Caution
Your doctor needs to be told your complete medical history so he can take an informed decision before he prescribes this drug. You need to tell him what medications you are on and what ailments you suffer from or have suffered from. This drug should be taken with caution in the case of high blood pressure, incidence of blood clots or allergies, nasal polyps and eye ailments. Alcohol should be avoided when you are on this drug as it can cause bleeding in the stomach. You should not take any aspirin while on this medication and be sure to check even a cough or cold medicine to see whether it contains aspirin.
Contraindications
The drug is contraindicated in the last trimester of pregnancy and it would be good if it were avoided right through. It is also best avoided when breast feeding your baby. The very young and the very old should avoid taking this drug as well as those allergic to it or those who suffer from any infection or allergies. It is also contraindicated in people with serious heart, kidney or liver ailments.