Diclofenac sodium gel is an effective and well-tolerated treatment option for older osteoarthritis patients. Diclofenac sodium gel is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug or NSAID in topical form. It is applied to the skin over an arthritic joint. The gel is a treatment option for arthritis affecting certain joints such as knee osteoarthritis or hand osteoarthritis.

According to a study presented at the 2008 Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Geriatrics Society and reported at Doctor's Guide, a total of 492 patients with pain in one knee were randomly assigned to receive diclofenac sodium gel, or a control. Of the study participants, 338 were younger than 65 years old and 154 were 65 years old or older. Patients were treated for 12 weeks and were assessed for pain and physical function before treatment started and at weeks 1, 4, 8, and 12. In the group of patients younger than 65 years old, the difference in pain scores among those using diclofenac sodium gel and those given a control treatment was not significant -- but physical function scores improved in the diclofenac sodium gel group.

In the overall study population, there was evidence of improvement in pain and physical function, suggesting diclofenac sodium gel may be a good alternative for older patients at higher risk of side effects from oral NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Side effects for the gel included headache, arthralgia, back pain, application site dermatitis, and pain -- but were generally mild to moderate in severity among both age groups studied.

Related Resources:

• Voltaren Gel: 10 Facts You Need to Know
• Capsaicin: 10 Things You Should Know
• NSAIDs: 10 Facts You Need to Know
• Drugs A-Z: Diclofenac Sodium/Voltaren Gel
• Topical Creams for Osteoarthritis Pain Relief

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