More care when prescribing Diclofenac
With NSAIDs being widely prescribed especially by the Rheumatology Unit, it is wise to know that apart from Peptic ulcer disease and renal failure, severe hepatic failure can also occur. Use it with great caution and always ensure adequate monitoring and do advice patients on its potential toxicity.
Diclofenac Linked to Liver Failure, Death
Deborah Flapan
December 5, 2009 — Treatment with all products containing diclofenac sodium, including Voltaren Gel, may increase liver dysfunction, resulting in severe hepatic reactions and liver transplantation or death, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Endo, and Novartis announced late last night.Cases of drug-induced hepatotoxicity have been reported within the first month of treatment with diclofenac but can occur at any time during treatment.
“Postmarketing surveillance has reported cases of severe hepatic reactions, including liver necrosis, jaundice, fulminant hepatitis with and without jaundice, and liver failure,” according to an alert sent last night by MedWatch, the FDA’s safety information and adverse event reporting program. “Some of these reported cases resulted in fatalities or liver transplantation.”
