Diclofenac gel is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory gel (NSAID). It may cause an increased risk of serious and at times fatal heart and blood vessel problems. Long term use of diclofenac gel may lead to greater risk of heart problems. Do not use diclofenac gel right before or later bypass heart surgery. In addition, it may cause increased risk of serious and sometimes fatal stomach ulcers and bleeding.
Elderly patients may be at greater risk. This article present warnings and precautions of diclofenac gel. Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events Prolonged use of COX-2 selective and nonselective NSAIDs up to three years duration have shown an increased risk of serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke, which can be fatal. Patients with known CV disease or risk factors for CV disease may be at greater risk. Precautions: To minimize the potential risk for an…
