Side Effects of diclofenac topical (actinic keratosis): A Synthesis of Findings from 9 Studies
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This analysis is based on research papers included in PubMed, but medical research is constantly evolving and may not fully reflect the latest findings. There may also be biases towards certain research areas.
This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician. If you have concerns about "Side Effects of diclofenac topical (actinic keratosis): A Synthesis of Findings from 9 Studies", please consult your doctor.
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Major Research Findings
Diclofenac topical is an effective treatment for actinic keratosis (AK). For example, 6 found that 5-FU-SA was superior to diclofenac 3% gel in hyaluronic acid, as measured by the histological clearance of one defined lesion (72% vs. 59.1%) and by complete clinical clearance (55.4% vs. 32.0%). Another study, 3 , showed that topical diclofenac 3% gel in organ transplant patients with multiple AKs had a higher lesion clearance rate than vehicle. A separate study, 9 , found that diclofenac 3% gel improved AK lesion clearance rates in 6 organ transplant patients.
Reasons for Side Effects
Side effects of diclofenac topical are due to its mechanism of action, which is to inhibit the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are substances involved in pain and inflammation, and diclofenac reduces pain and inflammation by inhibiting the production of these substances. However, prostaglandins also play an important role in protecting the digestive system, and inhibiting their synthesis can lead to digestive side effects. Additionally, diclofenac can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Common Side Effects
Skin irritation
Diclofenac topical can cause skin irritation, such as redness, itching, and rash, at the application site. This has been reported in several studies, including 6 , 3 , and 9 . These side effects are usually mild and go away after stopping treatment.
Digestive side effects
Diclofenac topical can cause digestive side effects such as stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea. This has been reported in 3 . These side effects are usually mild and go away after stopping treatment. However, in severe cases, they can cause peptic ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding. Therefore, people with digestive diseases should consult a doctor before using diclofenac topical.
Allergic reactions
Diclofenac topical can cause allergic reactions. Allergic reactions are manifested by symptoms such as rash, itching, difficulty breathing, and facial swelling. If you experience an allergic reaction, consult a doctor immediately. Also, people with a history of allergies to diclofenac topical should not use diclofenac topical.
Other
In addition to the above side effects, diclofenac topical can cause side effects such as dizziness, headache, and drowsiness. If you experience these side effects, consult your doctor.
Measures for Side Effects
Skin irritation
If you experience skin irritation, stop using diclofenac topical and consult your doctor. They may prescribe treatment such as steroid ointment or antihistamines based on your symptoms.
Digestive side effects
If you experience digestive side effects, stop using diclofenac topical and consult your doctor. They may prescribe treatment such as antacids or digestive medications based on your symptoms.
Allergic reactions
If you experience an allergic reaction, consult a doctor immediately. They may prescribe treatment such as antihistamines or steroid medications based on your symptoms. If necessary, you may be taken to the hospital.
Comparison Between Studies
Commonalities in Studies
Multiple studies have shown that diclofenac topical is an effective treatment for actinic keratosis (AK). All studies have also reported side effects such as skin irritation.
Differences in Studies
There are differences in the effectiveness and incidence of side effects of diclofenac topical between studies. This is thought to be due to differences in research methods and target patients. For example, 6 found that 5-FU-SA showed a higher clearance rate compared to diclofenac 3% gel in hyaluronic acid. In contrast, 3 found that topical diclofenac 3% gel in organ transplant patients had a higher AK lesion clearance rate compared to vehicle. Another study, 9 , found that diclofenac 3% gel improved AK lesion clearance rates in 6 organ transplant patients.
Precautions for Real-Life Applications
Diclofenac topical is an effective treatment for actinic keratosis (AK), but it also carries a risk of side effects. Therefore, the following precautions should be taken when using diclofenac topical.
- Use as directed by your doctor.
- Cleanse the affected area before applying diclofenac topical.
- Wash your hands after applying diclofenac topical.
- Avoid direct sunlight on the area where you applied diclofenac topical.
- If you experience any side effects such as skin irritation while using diclofenac topical, stop using it and consult your doctor.
Current Research Limitations
There is not enough data available yet regarding research on diclofenac topical. In particular, more research is needed on the side effects of long-term use and the impact on organ transplant patients.
Future Research Directions
Future research on diclofenac topical needs to consider the following:
- Side effects of long-term use
- Impact on organ transplant patients
- Comparison with other treatments
- Optimal dosage and duration of use
Conclusion
Diclofenac topical is an effective treatment for actinic keratosis (AK) but it also carries a risk of side effects. Therefore, it is necessary to use diclofenac topical safely, following your doctor's instructions. Further research is needed on the side effects of long-term use and the impact on organ transplant patients.
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