The main Voltaren controversy involves manufacturers GSK and Novartis being fined in Australia for misleading consumers by marketing two nearly identical gels (Osteo Gel and Emulgel) as distinct, with Osteo Gel falsely presented as superior for arthritis, despite having the same active ingredient (diclofenac) and equal effectiveness, leading to higher prices for consumers. A separate, long-standing concern is the cardiovascular risks associated with the active ingredient diclofenac, prompting some researchers to call for its withdrawal from global markets due to increased heart attack/stroke risks, especially for vulnerable patients.
Canadian and British researchers are calling for the anti-inflammatory diclofenac to be pulled from the market worldwide because of its heart risks.
Sometimes, diclofenac is used to treat headaches. So it may seem strange that headaches are a possible side effect. But taking too much diclofenac (or taking it too frequently) can cause a rebound headache.
You should generally avoid Voltaren gel (diclofenac) during pregnancy, especially after 20 weeks, as it's a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can potentially harm the baby, affecting fetal kidneys and circulation, and can cause issues like premature closure of a heart valve (ductus arteriosus). Always consult your doctor before using it, as they might recommend it only if benefits outweigh risks, for short periods, or suggest safer alternatives like paracetamol.
A series of 252 nationwide studies found that diclofenac increased the adverse event rate by 50%. It may increase a patient's risk of heart attack by 40%. The risk of serious heart problems, such as heart attack, increases in patients with a history of cardiovascular issues, heart disease, or high blood pressure.
Diclofenac may be more effective for severe pain. However, ibuprofen is generally considered safer for regular use, as it has a lower risk of serious cardiovascular events and stomach ulcers.
The exact symptoms of Voltaren gel overdose depend on how much Voltaren gel was used and how quickly the person gets medical attention. Whereas a very mild overdose may only cause nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain, larger overdoses can be fatal.
Stomach ulcers, other stomach or intestine problems. Tobacco use. An unusual or allergic reaction to diclofenac, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives. Pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
Acetaminophen. Acetaminophen, a nonsalicylate similar to aspirin in analgesic potency, has demonstrated efficacy and apparent safety at all stages of pregnancy in standard therapeutic doses.
Voltaren gel works directly where you apply it with little absorption to the bloodstream. This makes it a safer alternative to oral diclofenac for older adults and people with stomach problems. Voltaren gel shouldn't be used for pain from sprains, strains, or sports injuries.
The most common psychiatric symptoms reported are disorientation,[9] restlessness, agitation,[10] psychosis, personality changes, anxiety, and depression [Table 1].
Aspirin and ibuprofen are generally considered the most effective painkillers for migraine. But paracetamol can be a better option for some people. This can include: people with certain other health conditions, such as a stomach ulcer, severe heart or kidney failure, or high blood pressure.
This medicine may raise your risk of having a heart attack, heart failure, blood clot, or stroke.
Emulgel is a technology developed for the Voltaren Topical Gel formulations. It is an emulsion that is able to penetrate deep into the skin to bring the active ingredient to the point of pain.
Voltaren Gel (diclofenac sodium, 1%) transitioned from prescription to over-the-counter (OTC) status in 2020 to provide consumers with a more convenient and cost-effective access to pain relief. Following this transition, all generic versions either switched to OTC or were discontinued.
Do not take ENDONE if you are pregnant. It may affect your developing baby if you take it during pregnancy. Check with your doctor if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant.
First-time moms usually start showing sometime between 12 and 18 weeks. In a BabyCenter poll, most women expecting their first child said they started to show between 12 and 18 weeks, very closely followed by those who said that their bump emerged between 18 and 24 weeks.
Ibuprofen is generally not recommended for use after week 20 of pregnancy. There have been some reports that NSAID use in the 2nd half of pregnancy might affect the fetal kidneys and the amount of amniotic fluid (fluid that surrounds the fetus in the uterus).
hands after use, unless the hands are the treated joint. If Voltaren® Gel is applied to the hand(s) for treatment; patient should not wash the treated hand(s) for at least 1 hour after the application. Voltaren® Gel should not be applied to open wounds. been evaluated, and may increase adverse NSAIDs effects.
Increased Risks in Adults Over 65
People over 65 face higher risks with Voltaren gel. They might get heart problems or stomach issues. It's key for them to stick to the right dose and see their doctor regularly. Watch for heart problems like chest pain or trouble breathing.
Why can't I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel for shoulders, hips, etc.? Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel has not been studied for the relief of arthritis pain in the shoulders, hips, and back.
This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine)
The analgesic effect of diclofenac was slightly weaker than that of oxycodone (on a pain scale of 1–4, 1.6/2.1 after 0.5 h and 1.5/1.8 after 1 h). The patients again asked for an analgesic after an average of 4.6 h in the oxycodone group and after an average of 6.1 h in the diclofenac group.
It reduces inflammation and pain. Voltaren gel is approved for use on arm and leg joints only. It has not been studied for use in the hips or spine. You should not use Voltaren gel to treat muscle pain in other areas of the body, such as the lower back.