Understanding Diclofenac (Voltaren)
Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). A popular brand of it is Voltaren! This medication reduces pain and inflammation in the body. The topical form of it is the most common. It is the most widely available, since it does not require a prescription. Other forms of this medication include tablets, suppositories, and capsules. These require a prescription! When in the hospital, patients receive this medication as an injection or eyedrop.
Diclofenac is an excellent mild muscle pain treatment! It is also an effective medication for arthritis. One brand of it is also an approved medication for severe menstrual cramps! It is also a migraine treatment in its powdered form. However, patients must understand this medication before using it as a pain relief treatment!
How It Works
Diclofenac, as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication, is available to a wider range of patients. It is used to reduce inflammation and pain! Although it does not contain steroids, it works in a similar way. This medication affects cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes, which create prostaglandins! This hormone occurs around injuries. It is the hormone that is responsible for triggering inflammation and pain! This medication stops COX enzymes from creating a high amount of prostaglandins. When the body cannot make them, pain and inflammation from an injury will both go down!
Diclofenac comes in two forms: sodium and potassium. The latter is absorbed faster. Thus, it provides immediate pain relief. However, the sodium form is more effective for getting rid of inflammation for more extended periods.
Discover the uses for this medication next.
Uses
Most patients use this medication to treat injuries and other general aches and pains. It also has a significant and more specific effect on the joints, muscles, and bones! In fact, it is often prescribed for gout and rheumatoid arthritis. Diclofenac also helps other conditions that attack the bones and joints, including osteoarthritis! It will treat a muscle strain or ligament sprain as well. Doctors even prescribe it to patients who are dealing with chronic back pain! Other uses for this medication include treating toothaches, migraines, and menstrual cramps.
Continue reading to learn about the side effects of this medication next.
Side Effects
Every medication has side effects that come with it. This one is no different! The good news is that not many patients experience side effects with this medication. The most common ones, however, include nausea, stomachaches, diarrhea, and appetite loss. Other popular side effects include a mild rash, vomiting, headaches, and dizziness. Thankfully, the side effects of this medication are mild.
Additionally, the gel and plaster forms of this medication have fewer side effects. It is because patients ingest less medicine this way! Skin side effects of the gel form include a rash, itchy skin, and dry skin. A patient's skin also becomes more sensitive to the sun on this medication! Rare side effects are heart failure, allergic reaction, as well as stomach bleeding and inflammation. Other examples include stroke, liver issues, and a heart attack.
Discover precautions for this medication next.
Precautions To Remember
This medication is incredibly common. However, some individuals cannot take it! Thus, patients must discuss their medical history with their doctor. Diclofenac is not appropriate for individuals with lupus, Crohn's disease, or a blood clotting disorder. Other health issues that should be noted include high blood pressure, kidney disease, stomach ulcers, and liver disease. These patients often cannot take this medication either—individuals who can need to take it differently. Patients also need to tell their doctor if they have had an allergic reaction to other NSAIDs before. They must also make them aware of any heart health issues, including heart failure! Children over one year old take this medication for joint problems. However, it must be the oral form!
Get the details on the medication interactions next.
Medication Interactions
Of course, certain medications interact with diclofenac! There are more than 350 mild medication interactions this one faces. Thus, patients need to talk about all their current medications and supplements with their doctor. Two examples include blood pressure medications, along with drugs for the heart. Even diuretics must be noted! Patients must also inform their doctor if they take another form of diclofenac. They have to avoid their dose getting too high!
Blood thinners also lead to severe interactions with diclofenac. This is especially significant in individuals with blood clotting disorders! In addition, other NSAIDs cause reactions. Thus, individuals must only take one NSAID at a time, unless their doctor directs them otherwise.