VOLTAREN EMULGEL ® Diclofenac

VOLTAREN EMULGEL ® is a drug based on Diclofenac diethylammonium

THERAPEUTIC GROUP: Drugs for topical use for joint and muscle pain

IndicationsAction mechanismStudies and clinical effectiveness Usage and dosage instructionsWarnings Pregnancy and lactationInteractionsContraindicationsUndesirable effects

Directions VOLTAREN EMULGEL ® Diclofenac

VOLTAREN EMULGEL ® is indicated in the treatment of inflammatory and painful conditions of the musculoskeletal system.

This medicine can be used successfully in the treatment of articular and extrarticular rheumatic diseases and inflammatory states of post-traumatic origin.

Mechanism of action VOLTAREN EMULGEL ® Diclofenac

VOLTAREN EMULGEL ® is a medicine that allows you to administer topical diclofenac, significantly reducing some of the potential side effects associated with oral therapy.

More precisely this particular route of administration, although not guaranteeing a level of absorption of the stable and reproducible active principle, given the many variables such as location of application, area of application, dosages used and state of skin hydration, allows the active principle to reach however the target tissues effectively carrying out their therapeutic role and sparing the gastric mucosa from the insult exercised by direct contact with the active principle.

Like most non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, diclofenac performs its anti-inflammatory and analgesic action by inhibiting certain enzymes involved in the metabolism of arachidonic acid known as cyclooxygenases and responsible for prostaglandin synthesis.

These molecules, endowed with vasodilating and permeabilizing activity, can support the inflammatory process, facilitating the recruitment of inflammatory cells and mediators and sensitizing the painful nerve endings.

In pathological conditions, therefore, the inhibition of this particular cellular path translates macroscopically into an antalgic, anti-inflammatory and in some cases anti-edematous effect.

Studies carried out and clinical efficacy

1. EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF DICLOFENAC FOR TOPICAL USE IN TREATMENT OF ARTHRITIS

Am J Geriatr Pharmacother. 2012 Feb; 10 (1): 47-60. Epub 2012 Jan 20.

Work that shows how the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for topical rather than oral use, can significantly reduce the appearance of side effects, in patients contextually affected by vascular, gastrointestinal and cerebrovascular diseases, while allowing the maintenance of a good therapeutic success in treating arthritis.

2. TOPIC DICLOFENAC IN THE MANAGEMENT OF OSTEOARTRITIS

Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2011; 7: 393-9. Epub 2011 Sep 20.

Osteoarthritis is a very common pathologist in patients over 65 years of age, characterized by intense and continuous pain and the need for anti-inflammatory therapy. In these cases the use of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for topical use could prove to be effective and above all safe, reducing the development of numerous side effects and above all reducing the incidence of cardiac, cerebrovascular, hepatic and renal accidents.

3. THE TOPIC DICLOFENAC IN MUSCLE-SKELETAL ACCIDENTS

Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010 Jun 16; (6): CD007402.

Study demonstrating that the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for topical use can significantly improve the pain symptoms associated with musculoskeletal injuries in adults, without the occurrence of particular side effects.

Method of use and dosage

VOLTAREN EMULGEL ®

Topical gel with 1.16 gr of diclofenac diethylammonium equal to 1 gr of sodium diclofenac.

The application of the gel is recommended, in the anatomical site concerned, 3-4 times a day, in quantities necessary to cover the affected area.

In order to improve the absorption of the active ingredient it is necessary to remember to massage the area by exerting a slight pressure.

It is also useful to wash your hands after the treatment, in order to eliminate the amount of gel applied to them.

Warnings VOLTAREN EMULGEL ® Diclofenac

Before applying VOLTAREN EMULGEL ® on the skin, it is advisable to check the integrity of the same and the absence of obvious lesions.

It is important to avoid contact of diclofenac with eyes and mucous membranes.

Although VOLTAREN EMULGEL ® appears to be a salable drug without a prescription, it would be useful to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking it.

PREGNANCY AND BREASTFEEDING

Although the blood concentrations of diclofenac observed following topical administration are decidedly low, the use of VOLTAREN EMULGEL ® during pregnancy and in the subsequent period of breastfeeding is not recommended.

This contraindication is supported both by the known side effects related to the oral intake of diclofenac, and by the absence of studies concerning the safety profile of this topically administered drug.

Interactions

Topical administration of diclofenac makes it possible to significantly limit all possible drug interactions provided instead for oral intake.

However, it is useful to remember that the area affected by the treatment could be particularly photosensitive.

Contraindications VOLTAREN EMULGEL ® Diclofenac

Taking VOLTAREN EMULGEL ® is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to the active ingredient or to one of its excipients, as well as to salicylates and any other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug.

Undesirable effects - Side effects

The topical application of diclofenac significantly reduces the side effects associated with therapy with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, especially those affecting the gastro-intestinal mucosa.

However, due to the presence of excipients with allergenic power it is possible to observe dermatitis, hives and skin rashes on the affected area.

In severe cases allergic reactions can become systemic and have more serious repercussions.