Voltaren Emulgel

Generic Name: Diclofenac diethylammonium
Product Name: Voltaren Emulgel

Indication

Voltaren Emulgel is a topical medication used for the short term treatment of pain and inflammation in muscles and joints (e.g. sprains, tendinitis, bursitis).

Action

The active ingredient of Voltaren Emulgel is diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

The anti-inflammatory effect of NSAIDs is thought to be achieved by inhibiting cyclooxygenase. Cyclooxygenase is important for the production of prostaglandin, which has a role in causing inflammation.

The gel base of Voltaren Emulgel has a soothing and cooling effect when applied to the skin.

Dose advice

Dose information:

• Apply locally to the skin 3-4 times a day.
• Rub in gently.
• Only apply to intact, healthy skin (not to skin wounds, infections or open injuries).
• Do not allow contact with eyes or mucous membranes.
• Do not swallow.
• Wash your hands after applying (unless the hands are the site being treated).

Contraindications:

Do not take Voltaren Emulgel if you experience:

• Hypersensitivity to diclofenac, propylene glycol, isopropyl alcohol, or other ingredients of Voltaren Emulgel.
• Aspirin (or other NSAID) induced asthma, urticaria and rhinitis.

Precautions:

Some conditions require special consideration. Tell your doctor if you have:

• Peptic ulcer disease
• Gastrointestinal bleeding

Systemic side effects (hypersensitivity, rash, photosensitivity) can occur when Voltaren Emulgel is applied to a relatively large area of skin for a long period of time.

Pregnancy:

Voltaren Emulgel is an ADEC Category C medication. Voltaren Emulgel should not be used in women who are planning to be or are currently pregnant, as its safety in pregnancy is not known.

Lactation:

There are no data on the use of Voltaren Emulgel during breastfeeding. Therefore, it is not recommended.

Schedule

Voltaren Emulgel is unscheduled.

Uncommon side effects

All medicines have side effects. Most commonly the side effects are minor, however some can be more serious. Usually the benefits of taking a medication outweigh the associated side effects. Your doctor would have considered these side effects before starting you on Voltaren Emulgel.

Side effects which occur in less than 1% of patients given Voltaren Emulgel are considered uncommon. Patients do not necessarily experience any of these side effects, so do not become alarmed by this list:

• Allergic or non-allergic contact dermatitis
• Generalised skin rashes
• Hypersensitivity reactions (asthma, angioedema)
• Photosensitivity reactions

If you experience any of the listed side effects, or any other symptoms which appear abnormal or unusual, please tell your doctor.

References

1. MIMS Online. Voltaren Emulgel. 29 July 1997 [cited 2008 July 9]. Available from; [URL Link]
2. Australian Medicines Handbook. Diclofenac. January 2008 [cited 2008 July 9]. Available from: [URL Link]

For further information talk to your doctor.