Voltaren Information:

In the modern age, more than often than not we come across situations when we need to be in perfect shape. We may have to make to an important business meeting or give a very important presentation, but headaches, dental pain or other body pain (particularly joint pain) might prevent us from doing so. We may be on the verge of victory in a soccer game and some injury might make the future of the game look grim. In such situations, something that can relieve pain instantly is needed. Voltaren is one such medicine. It helps relieve pain and swelling to enable us to carry on with our work.

Voltaren is a part of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) family. It is generally used for the treatment of athletic injuries, dental pain, headaches, and other body pain, especially muscular pain. Like all NSAIDs, Voltaren also works on the same principle. It acts as an inhibitor to an enzyme in the body called Cyclo-oxygenase. Cyclo-oxygenase is the enzyme that produces prostaglandin, which is a stimulant of pain nerve cells. By suppressing the production of this substance Voltaren significantly reduces pain, thus allowing you to complete the task at hand. Voltaren contains Diclofenac, which is the actual agent that acts as the inhibitor.

Studies have shown that Voltaren only affects one of the two isoforms of Cyclo-oxygenase i.e. Cyclo-oxygenase-2, which is also known as COX-II. Cyclo-oxygenase-1 is needed for the maintenance and smooth running of organic functions such as kidney, heart, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal functions. Cyclo-oxygenase-2 is responsible for the production of prostaglandin. As Voltaren affects primarily COX-II, it has less gastrointestinal side effects than other NSAIDs.

Voltaren is also used to treat chronic pain associated with certain cancers. Favourable results have been seen in treating female breast cancer. The main ingredient of Voltaren, Diclofenac, is also known to raise blood pressure and therefore it is sometimes used to treat patients with abnormally low blood pressure. What makes Voltaren unique is that it also has other molecular targets (voltage-dependent sodium channels, acid-sensing ion channels) which help it reduce pain with more efficiency than other members of the family. It can also be used to treat uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTI) caused by E. coli (a species of bacteria causing infections in the intestines and other parts of the body)

The typical dosage for Voltaren ranges from 100mg to 150mg per day; every single dose has much longer action than usually indicated. However extensive use is discouraged because of side effects which include heart attack, nausea, diarrhea, stroke and vomiting.

This article is for informational purposes only. For further instructions on Voltaren consult with your doctor.