Voltaren Osteo (Diclofenac 23.2mg/g) Gel

Voltaren Osteo general information

What is Voltaren Osteo used for?

Damage or injury to your body tissues triggers a local inflammatory response, which causes pain in the area of the injury.  The sensation of pain tells you that something is wrong and brings with it a warning to take extra care when using that part of your body.  Voltaren Osteo Gel 2.32% is a topical medication used to reduce inflammation and pain caused by damage or injury to soft tissues that including tendons, ligaments, and muscles.  Voltaren Osteo is also used to reduce inflammation and pain in the superficial joints caused by mild osteoarthritis.

Soft tissue injury

Soft tissue injury is also known as soft tissue rheumatism.  This is an umbrella term for injury or damage to tendons, ligaments, or muscles.  These tissues also include the bursa, which are fluid-filled sacs surrounding joints that protect the tissues of the joints from friction.  Also, soft tissues within superficial joints such as the synovial lining of the joint surfaces and cavities, and the joint capsule, the fibrous tissue that attaches to the surface of bone in an articular joint. 

Soft tissue injuries include sprains and strains due to trauma, such as sports injuries.  Overuse of a particular part of the body can cause tendinitis, which is inflammation of a tendon resulting in swelling around the elbow or knee.  Tennis elbow is an example of a sports injury caused by overuse of the elbow tendons.  Tenosynovitis is inflammation of the tendon sheath, which is the membrane around a tendon that allows it to stretch.  Bursitis is inflammation around the bursa and is most common in the shoulder, elbow, and hip.  Frozen shoulder is an example of inflammation of a joint capsule.  A soft tissue injury can also cause bruising in the underlying tissues.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a form of arthritis that becomes more common with increasing age.  Osteoarthritis can also develop as a result of a joint injury, or infection, or due to being overweight.  It is often referred to as wear and tear of the bone with gradual disintegration of the cartilage that covers and protects the ends of the bones in an articular joint.  As cartilage becomes eroded, it leaves the underlying bones exposed and unprotected so that they rub against each other, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness, which restricts movement of that joint.  Osteoarthritis is most common in the knees and hips but can also occur in the fingers and spine.  

How does Voltaren Osteo work?

Voltaren Osteo Gel 2.32% contains diclofenac, which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that has antirheumatic (reduces pain and inflammation in joints), anti-inflammatory (reduces general inflammation), analgesic (pain-relieving) and antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties.  Diclofenac in Voltaren Osteo Gel accumulates at the surface of the skin and is absorbed through the skin.  It penetrates through to the underlying soft tissues at the site of inflammation and acts directly on the soft tissues surrounding superficial joints, such as tendons, ligaments, and muscles; and within superficial joints, such as the synovium and bursa. 

Diclofenac in Voltaren Osteo Gel works by inhibiting the action of the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX).  The COX enzyme is critical in the pathway for synthesis of chemicals called prostaglandins, which are cellular messengers that mediate many cellular processes.  Some prostaglandins (PG) like PGE2 are produced at sites of injury or inflammation and cause pain, swelling, and other symptoms of inflammation.  Blocking the local production of prostaglandins at the site of inflammation reduces pain and swelling associated with inflammation.

Voltaren Osteo Gel has an aqueous-alcoholic base, which exerts a cooling effect on the skin to soothe and cool the skin over the site of inflammation or injury. 

Voltaren Osteo Gel 2.32% contains a double concentration of diclofenac, and therefore, you only need to apply it twice daily.  It is effective within three days and can be used for up to three weeks for long-lasting pain relief, with reduced inflammation, and improved joint mobility.  Double strength Voltaren Osteo Gel provides pain relief caused by localised osteoarthritis for up to 12 hours.  

Voltaren Osteo Gel 2.32% helps you regain functional use of the affected joint so that you can return to your usual activities within a few weeks.

What does Voltaren Osteo contain?

Voltaren Osteo contains the active ingredient diclofenac diethylammonium 2.32% (23.2mg/g) in a gel form.

What are the side effects of Voltaren Osteo?

Most medications have some side effects, but they are not experienced by everyone.  Some side effects are commonly experienced when taking Voltaren Osteo, but others are not so common, and you should discuss any problems or concerns with your primary care physician. 

Common side effects when taking Voltaren Osteo are at the site of application and include: rash, eczema, redness (erythema), dermatitis, pruritus (itching). 

When should Voltaren Osteo not be used?

Have a talk with your primary healthcare physician before taking Voltaren Osteo so that you have a full understanding of what this medicine is for and how to use it.  There are some reasons for not taking a medication; these are called contraindications, and for Voltaren Osteo you should consider the following before taking Voltaren Osteo:

• Have you ever had an unusual reaction or an allergy when using Voltaren Osteo?
• Are you allergic to diclofenac, aspirin or any other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)?
• Are you pregnant or breastfeeding?
• Do you have a history of stomach ulcer or bleeding?
• Do you have any problems with your kidneys?
• Do you have asthma or have you had an asthma attack when taking diclofenac, aspirin or any other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)?
• Are you taking any other NSAID or aspirin?

How should Voltaren Osteo be used and for how long?

You should apply your Voltaren Osteo by gently rubbing a small amount into the skin around the swollen or painful area twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening.  You should avoid contact of Voltaren Osteo with your eyes or mucous membranes and wash your hands after each application; do not apply to broken skin.  You should continue apply your Voltaren Osteo daily for no longer than three weeks.

Missed dose of Voltaren Osteo

If you miss a dose of Voltaren Osteo apply it as soon as you remember, unless it is time to apply the next dose, then skip the missed dose.  Do not apply a double dose.

How should Voltaren Osteo be stored?

You should store your Voltaren Osteo below 25°C in a cool, dry place.