Voltaren Emulgel (1%) 50 gm

Mechanism Of Action Of Diclofenac:

• diclofenac belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) which works by:
• Inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2, thereby inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis
• May also inhibit neutrophil aggregation/activation, inhibit chemotaxis, decrease proinflammatory cytokine levels, and alter lymphocyte activity.

Therapeutic Indications Of Voltaren Emulgel:

• muscle and joint injuries (e.g. sprains, strains, bruises, backache, sports injuries)
• tendonitis: Tendonitis is when a tendon swells (becomes inflamed) after a tendon injury. It can cause joint pain, and stiffness, and affect how a tendon moves. (e.g. tennis elbow).
• osteoarthritis is a disease characterized by degeneration of cartilage and its underlying bone within a joint as well as bony overgrowth. The joints most commonly affected are the knees, hips, and those in the hands.

Method Of Administration Of Voltaren Emulgel:

• Gently squeeze out a small amount of gel from the tube and apply it to the painful or swollen area, slowly rubbing it into the skin.
• The amount needed will vary depending on the size of the painful or swollen area.
• You may notice a slight cooling effect when you rub the gel in.
• Only use the smallest amount of this medicine needed to relieve your pain.
• Apply the gel 2 times a day (preferably morning and evening) on the painful area.
• Do not apply to cuts or open skin.
• Do not use it for more than 2 weeks without consulting your doctor.
• Doses may be changed in special conditions so always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions.
• If you take more than you should, talk to a doctor or go to the hospital straight away.
• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember it unless it is nearly time for your next dose.
• Do not take a double dose (two doses at the same time) to make up for the forgotten dose.

Undesirable Side Effects Of Voltaren Emulgel:

• Skin rash.
• Itching.
• reddening of the skin.
• swelling.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Precautions While Taking Voltaren Emulgel:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine.
• Not preferred especially during the first 3 months.

Non-Pharmacological Treatments & Advice To Reduce Pain:

• Massage: A lot of people find relief from gentle massage, and some hospice agencies have volunteers who are trained in massage therapy.
• Relaxation techniques.
• Acupuncture.
• Physical therapy.
• Gel packs.

Warnings & Special Precautions While Taking Voltaren Emulgel:

• DO NOT use the gel if you:

1. are in the last 3 months of your pregnancy.
2. have an allergy (hypersensitivity) to any of the ingredients in the product.

• This medicine is not recommended for use in children under 14 years of age.
• Do not apply the gel to skin that has a rash, eczema, cuts, or open wounds.
• Stop the treatment if a skin rash develops after applying the product.
• Avoid applying on large areas of skin and over a prolonged time, unless under medical advice.
• Tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, especially:

1. Other NSAIDs.
2. Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid).
3. Corticosteroids.
4. Blood thinners such as Warfarin.

Storage Conditions Of Voltaren Emulgel:

• store below 30°c.
• Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children.
• Store in the original package to protect from moisture.
• Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the box/blisters/label. The expiry date refers to the last day of the month.