Voltaren Retard 100mg Tablet (Diclofenac) x100

Voltaren Retard 100mg Tablet contains Diclofenac Sodium in a sustained-release formulation. This non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) provides prolonged pain relief and reduces inflammation for up to 12 hours with once-daily dosing.

Uses

Voltaren Retard treats various inflammatory and painful conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, acute gout, and musculoskeletal disorders. It’s also effective for post-operative pain, dental pain, and sports injuries requiring extended pain management.

Benefits

• Provides up to 12 hours of sustained pain relief
• Reduces inflammation and swelling effectively
• Improves joint mobility and function
• Requires less frequent dosing than regular formulations
• Reduces morning stiffness in arthritis patients
• Minimizes gastric irritation with sustained-release coating
• Enhances quality of life in chronic pain conditions
• Allows better sleep patterns with extended action
• Improves compliance with once-daily dosing

How It Works

Voltaren Retard inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing prostaglandin production responsible for pain, inflammation, and fever. The sustained-release formulation gradually releases Diclofenac over 12 hours, maintaining therapeutic blood levels and providing consistent pain control throughout the day.

Dosage

Take Voltaren Retard whole with water during or after meals. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet as this destroys the sustained-release mechanism.

Duration of Action

Voltaren Retard begins working within 1-2 hours of administration, with peak effects occurring at 4-6 hours. The sustained-release formulation maintains therapeutic levels for 12 hours, providing consistent pain relief throughout the day with once-daily dosing.

Side Effects

Common side effects include mild stomach upset, heartburn, dizziness, and headache. Some patients may experience fluid retention or elevated blood pressure. Serious but rare side effects include gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney problems, or cardiovascular events, particularly with prolonged use.

Warning

Voltaren Retard increases risk of serious cardiovascular events and gastrointestinal bleeding, especially in elderly patients or those with pre-existing conditions. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration. Avoid in patients with active peptic ulcers, severe heart failure, or severe kidney disease.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Avoid Voltaren Retard during the third trimester as it may cause premature closure of fetal ductus arteriosus. Use in first and second trimesters only if benefits outweigh risks. Small amounts pass into breast milk; consult healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

Interaction

• Increases risk of bleeding with anticoagulants like warfarin
• May reduce effectiveness of blood pressure medications
• Potential kidney toxicity when combined with ACE inhibitors
• Increases lithium and methotrexate blood levels
• May interact with certain diuretics affecting kidney function
• Possible reduced effectiveness of some antidepressants

Precaution

Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, kidney or liver impairment, asthma, or history of gastrointestinal disorders. Regular monitoring may be required for long-term use. Avoid alcohol consumption which increases stomach irritation risk.

Important Information

Voltaren Retard is for oral use only and should not be broken or crushed. Take with food to minimize stomach irritation. Report any signs of gastrointestinal bleeding, chest pain, or unusual swelling immediately. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Regular medical monitoring is recommended for prolonged treatment.