What Is Diclofenac (Voltaren)?
Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). The medication should help reduce pain and inflammation around the body. Patients may know this medication as the brand Voltaren, though this seems to be only one form of it. This is the topical form, and because it can be available over-the-counter, patients seem to have more access to it. The prescription forms, however, also seem to come as tablets or suppositories. Some hospitals can provide it as an injection or eyedrop.
Pain relief seems to be the primary function of this medication. It appears to be particularly common in its topical form as a mild muscle pain treatment. Some doctors may choose to prescribe it as a medication for arthritis. Women with severe menstrual cramps may also take this medication. It may also function as a migraine treatment for certain patients. However, it seems crucial for patients to understand more about this medication before taking it as a treatment for pain.
How It Should Work
This medication seems to belong to the NSAID class. Thus, like the other medications in this class, it does not appear to use steroids to get rid of pain and inflammation. This should make diclofenac more accessible to patients. Despite this, however, individuals may find that they work in a similar way to steroids. This particular medication seems to affect cyclo-oxygenase enzymes. These enzymes should create prostaglandins when individuals have an injury. Prostaglandins, it seems, appear around the injury and are what can trigger pain and inflammation. If this medication does block COX enzymes from making them, it should reduce inflammation and pain.
Patients may choose between the sodium and potassium forms of this medication. However, the latter seems to be absorbed faster, which should mean more immediate pain relief. The sodium form, on the other hand, may provide better results over longer periods.
Continue reading to uncover potential uses for this medication next.
Potential Uses
It appears that this medication mainly treats general aches and pains. However, some patients with joint, muscle, or bone issues may achieve a more specific effect with it. Some arthritis patients may be prescribed this medication. This seems to include the most common forms of arthritis, including gout and rheumatoid arthritis. Some patients with sprained muscles or ligaments may find temporary relief with diclofenac. The same can apply to strained muscles. It also seems as if some brands can treat toothaches, migraines, and menstrual cramps. Doctors may also choose to prescribe it for chronic inflammation and back pain.
Get details on possible side effects of this medication next.
Possible Side Effects
It seems as if every medication can cause some side effects. This one does not appear to be different. However, it is possible that not everyone will deal with the side effects of diclofenac. Others may even deal with more severe effects. Of course, this medication only seems to trigger mild side effects. Common ones that patients may experience include appetite loss, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. They may also deal with dizziness, a mild rash, headaches, or a stomachache.
Patients may be able to prevent many side effects with the gel form of this medication. This may be because they are ingesting less of the medicine. However, side effects on the skin may happen. This can include a rash, itchy skin, and increased sun sensitivity. It is possible for their skin to be irritated and dry as well. Rare side effects may include stomach inflammation, an allergic reaction, liver issues, and stomach bleeding. Other rare possibilities seem to include heart failure, heart attack, and stroke.
Learn about possible precautions linked to this medication next.
Precautions To Consider
Most adults may be able to take diclofenac. However, there appears to be some individuals who cannot. This can include individuals with lupus, Crohn's disease, or some blood clotting disorders. These issues are likely why patients need to review their medical history with their doctor before taking this medication. Some points that can be of particular interest include stomach ulcers, liver disease, high blood pressure, and kidney disease. Doctors may also need to ask about past reactions to this medication or other NSAIDs. Heart failure and other cardiovascular conditions may also be considered. Children may be able to take this medication for some conditions, though their parents may need to be cautious.
Learn about potential medication interactions next.
Potential Medication Interactions
Diclofenac does not seem to have serious medication interactions with many medicines. However, it may trigger mild interactions with more than 350 medications. Due to this, patients may want to write down all of the medications and supplements they currently take. Sharing this list with their doctor can be quite important. Medications of note appear to include heart or blood pressure medications. Some doctors may even ask about diuretics when they are considering prescribing this medication.
Blood thinners may also cause an interaction with diclofenac. This possibility may be magnified if patients also have a clotting disorder. Patients may not be able to take another NSAID at the same time as this one, since they may also result in an interaction. Doctors also need to monitor a patient's dose of this medication, so patients may need to tell them if they take it in another form already.
