Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the modern pharmaceutical market are presented in a variety of forms - both in powders, and in tablets, and in injections, and, of course, in the form of ointments and gels. One of the most popular NSAIDs in the form of a gel can be called Diclofenac. This is due to several factors: firstly, the drug does not have a high price, and secondly, it is quite effective, and, thirdly, the popularity of the name of the drug is supported by other forms - the same injections and tablets.
Composition of the gel Diclofenac
Diclofenac successfully represents anti-inflammatory non-steroid agents and consists of a gel from diclofenac sodium.
The auxiliary substances that help the gel to penetrate better into tissues and retain their properties for a long time are:
- ethanol rectified;
- propylene glycol;
- triethanolamine;
- carbomer;
- methyl lauryl hydroxybenzonate;
- lavender oil;
- purified water.
Form release and concentration of gel Diclofenac
Gel Diclofenac is available in aluminum tubes for 50 and 40 g.
In addition to volume, the concentration of the substance also differs:
- Diclofenac gel 5% - per 1 g of weight accounts for 50 mg of diclofenac sodium;
- Diclofenac gel 3% - 1 g of gel accounts for 30 mg of diclofenac sodium;
- Diclofenac gel 1% - for 1 g of gel is 10 mg of the main active ingredient - diclofenac sodium.
Diclofenac ointment does not exist, only the gel is available.
Pharmacological properties of gel Diclofenac
Diclofenac is a remedy that has an analgesic effect, as well as pronounced anti-inflammatory properties. It inhibits the enzymes COX-2 and COX-1, and also disrupts the synthesis of arachidonic acid and the metabolism of prostaglandins, which form a chain of inflammatory process. Thus, the gel suppresses the spread of inflammation, and also prevents its development in the surrounding tissues.
Due to these properties, Diclofenac is used as a decongestant if swelling is caused by inflammation. It is also prescribed for pain syndromes as a local anesthetic if pain is caused by an inflammatory process.
Diclofenac reduces swelling in the areas of joint inflammation, relieving stiffness. Also in places of inflammation, he either eliminates pain, or significantly reduces it.
Diclofenac gel instructions
Instructions for the use of Diclofenac Gel 5%, as well as 3% and 1% are not different. The difference lies in the concentration of the active substance, and its purpose depends on the severity of the symptoms. For example, Diclofenac gel with a concentration of 5% is used to treat severe pain in rheumatism .
Indications for use of the gel Diclofenac
Diclofenac is prescribed for the following diseases:
- rheumatic pathologies - bursitis , tendovaginitis, etc .;
- Muscle pain in the background of rheumatism or damage to muscle tissue;
- posttraumatic inflammation of the joints.
Diclofenac gel is applied externally, and the number of single use depends on the size of the painful area.
However, there are general recommendations for the use of a gel of different concentrations:
- Diclofenac gel 1% - single use - up to 4 g;
- Diclofenac gel 3% - single use - up to 3 g;
- Diclofenac gel 5% - single use up to 2 g.
Children older than 12 years and adults are encouraged to apply gel 3-4 times a day with light rubbing movements.
Contraindications to the use of gel Diclofenac
Diclofenac can not be used in the following conditions:
- pregnancy (recommendation 3 trimester);
- lactation;
- children's age (up to 6 years);
- wounds, burns;
- an allergic reaction or asthma caused by the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
If there is a bleeding disorder, Diclofenac Gel 5% should be used with caution.