The systemic concentration of diclofenac is lower after topical administration, compared to oral formulations. With reference to experience from treatment with NSAIDs with systemic uptake, the following is recommended: stomach ache, wind or loss of appetite – try not to eat foods that cause wind (like peas, lentils, beans and onions). Eat smaller meals, eat and drink slowly, and exercise regularly. During the first and second trimester of pregnancy, diclofenac should not be used unless clearly necessary. If diclofenac is used by a woman attempting to conceive, or during the first and second trimester of pregnancy, the dose should be kept as low and duration of treatment as short as possible.

have an allergy to aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen The occurrence of undesirable effects can be minimized by using the lowest possible dose for the shortest duration of treatment necessary to relieve symptoms.

1. About diclofenac

Like all medicines, diclofenac can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Common side effects

Common side effects of diclofenac tablets, capsules and suppositories happen in more than 1 in 100 people. skin being more sensitive to sunlight – stay out of bright sun and use a high factor sun cream (SPF 15 or above), even on cloudy days. Do not use a sunlamp or sunbeds. Put the gel on the painful or swollen area and slowly rub it in. It may feel cool on your skin. Wash your hands afterwards. When the gel is applied on large areas of skin and over a prolonged period, the possibility of systemic undesirable effects (e.g. renal, hepatic or gastrointestinal undesirable effects, systemic hypersensitivity reactions) - as they occur possibly after systemic administration of diclofenac-containing medicinal products cannot be excluded. You're less likely to have side effects with diclofenac gel or plasters. This is because less medicine gets into your body. But you may still get the same side effects, especially if you use a lot on a large area of skin.In these patients, Motusol may only be used under certain precautions (emergency preparedness) and direct medical supervision. The same applies for patients who are also allergic to other substances e.g. with skin reactions, itching or urticaria. Based on conventional studies on safety pharmacology, genotoxicty and carcinogenic potential, the preclinical data do not reveal any specific hazards for humans, apart from those already described in other sections of the SPC. In animal studies, the chronic toxicity of diclofenac following systemic application mainly manifested as gastrointestinal lesions and ulcers. In a 2-year toxicity study, a dose-dependent increase in the incidence of thrombosis of the heart was observed in diclofenac-treated rats. Topical diclofenac may be used with a non-occlusive bandage but not with an airtight occlusive dressing (see section 5.2)

No special dose adjustment is required. Because of the potential undesirable-effect profile, elderly people should be carefully monitored. headaches – make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. Do not drink too much alcohol. Ask your pharmacist to recommend an alternative painkiller. Headaches should usually go away after the first week of taking diclofenac. Talk to your doctor if they last longer than a week or are severe. If your doctor prescribes diclofenac for your child, they'll use your child's weight to work out the right dose for them.

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If you forget to take diclofenac, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for your next dose. In this case, skip the missed dose and take the next one at the usual time. The usual dose is 75mg to 150mg a day, depending on what your doctor prescribes for you. Follow your doctor's advice on how many tablets to take, and how many times a day. possible prolongation of bleeding time, an anti-aggregating effect which may occur even at very low doses.