How does it work?

This medicine contains the active ingredient diclofenac diethylammonium, which is a type of medicine known as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking the action of a substance in the body called cyclo-oxygenase. Cyclo-oxygenase is involved in the production of various chemicals in the body, some of which are known as prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are produced in response to injury or certain diseases and would otherwise go on to cause pain, swelling and inflammation. Diclofenac is therefore used to relieve pain and inflammation. All the medicines in this group (NSAIDs) reduce inflammation caused by the body's own immune system, and are effective pain killers. Diclofenac applied topically to the skin can be used to relieve local pain and inflammation caused by a variety of muscle, joint, tendon and ligament injuries, such as sprains, strains and bruises. It can also be used for rheumatism.

What is it used for?

Pain and inflammation in muscle and joint injuries, eg sprains, strains and bruises

Rheumatic aches and pains

Warning!

If symptoms persist despite treatment, seek medical advice from your doctor or pharmacist.

This preparation is for external use only.

You should avoid excessive exposure to bright sunlight while using this medicine, as it may increase the risk of sunburn.

You should not cover the area being treated with airtight dressings such as bandages or other dressings, including nappies, as these will enhance the absorption of the medicine into the body and may increase the risk of adverse effects.

Avoid contact of this medicine with the eyes and the moist membranes lining the inside of certain parts of the body, eg mouth, nasal passages (mucous membranes). Rinse with cold water if accidental contact occurs.

Wash your hands thoroughly after applying this medicine, unless the hands are the area being treated.

This medicine is not recommended for use in children.

Do not apply this medicine to broken or irritated skin.

Use with caution in

History of ulceration or bleeding in the stomach or intestines

Not to be used in

Allergy to aspirin or other medicines in this class

People in whom aspirin or other medicines in this class (NSAIDs), cause attacks of asthma, itchy rash (urticaria) or nasal inflammation (rhinitis)

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

There is no information available about the safety of this medicine during pregnancy. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

The manufacturer does not recommend the use of this medicine when breastfeeding, as there is no safety information available. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Rash

Abnormal reaction of the skin to light, usually a rash (photosensitivity)

Allergic inflammation of the skin (contact dermatitis)

Allergic reactions such as narrowing of the airways (bronchospasm) or swelling of the lips, throat and tongue (angioedema)

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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