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Topricin vs Voltaren
Introduction
For those suffering from chronic muscle pain or inflammation, the ability to get quick and effective relief can be paramount. Topricin and Voltaren are two such products that offer alleviation of discomfort related to muscle soreness. They work in different ways to manage pain symptoms, but both aim to provide therapeutic comfort.
Topricin is a homeopathic cream that uses an assortment of natural biomedicines to help stimulate the body’s ability to heal itself, targeting areas of inflammation and pain without causing any unwanted side effects or interacting poorly with other medications.
On the contrary, Voltaren is a brand name for diclofenac diethylamine, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation directly at the application site. Understanding the differences between these two products can help you when choosing between them for managing conditions like osteoarthritis or muscle-related discomfort.
Topricin vs Voltaren Side By Side
| Attribute | Topricin | Voltaren |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | Topricin | Voltaren |
| Contraindications | Should not be applied to open wounds or damaged skin areas. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. Test for sensitivity on an unbroken area of skin before regular use. | People taking oral NSAIDs should exercise caution due to potential increased risk of systemic side effects. Not to be applied on open wounds or damaged skin. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. |
| Cost | Approximately $16 for a 2 oz. (56 g) jar | Approximately $25 for a 100 g tube of Voltaren Emulgel |
| Generic Name | N/A - Homeopathic cream with multiple natural biomedicines | Diclofenac diethylamine |
| Most Serious Side Effect | Signs of an allergic reaction such as: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. | Severe skin reactions like fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, or a red/purple rash that spreads and causes blistering/peeling. |
| Severe Drug Interactions | None reported due to its homeopathic nature and lack of systemic absorption. | Increased risk of serious gastrointestinal events, such as bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. |
| Typical Dose | Can be applied as needed to the affected area, but should not exceed four applications per day. | A small amount of gel, about the size of a dime, can be applied to the affected area, up to a maximum of four times per day. |
What is Topricin?
Topricin, a homeopathic cream first introduced in 1994, provides a different approach to managing pain and inflammation compared to traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) topical creams Voltaren. Topricin works by supporting the body's inherent healing mechanisms rather than blocking specific pain pathways as NSAIDs do. It does this through its unique composition of natural biomedicines aimed at improving blood flow to injured tissues and aiding the body's ability to heal itself.
On the other hand, Voltaren is a well-established topical gel containing diclofenac diethylamine, which belongs to a class of medications known as NSAIDs. This medication works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation. Voltaren was approved by the FDA in 2007 for treating joint pain linked with osteoarthritis.
While both Topricin and Voltaren can be effective for relieving pain and inflammation, they work differently on a molecular level. Topricin enhances natural recovery processes, while Voltaren acts more directly on inflammatory signals. Individuals who prefer 'natural' or holistic treatments may choose Topricin over Voltaren.
What conditions is Topricin approved to treat?
Topricin and Voltaren are both used for the management of different types of pain:
- Topricin is a homeopathic cream that has been approved for relieving pain from conditions such as arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, lower back strain, joint inflammation, fibromyalgia and other nerve-related pains.
- Voltaren is an NSAID-containing gel typically used to relieve arthritis-related pain, but can also be applied to treat actinic keratosis (a skin condition caused by sun exposure).
How does Topricin help with these issues?
Topricin assists in managing pain by using a combination of natural biomedicines to stimulate the body's ability to heal the damage that's causing the pain. It does this by enhancing circulation and attracting fluids that can detoxify and activate cells at the injury site, thus facilitating healing. Topricin is a homeopathic cream that targets inflammation, swelling, and nerve and muscle pain, among other conditions.
Topricin represents a holistic approach to promoting recovery from injuries naturally.
What is Voltaren?
Voltaren is a brand name for diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It's available as a topical cream, and as tablets for oral use. It works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body. Diclofenac was first approved by the FDA in 1988. Unlike Topricin which is a homeopathic cream that has few associated side effects reported, Voltaren can cause side effects such as upset stomach or mild heartburn. It's also important to know that serious gastrointestinal tract ulcers and bleeding can occur without warning signs while using Voltaren. Despite these potential risks, when used correctly and under medical supervision, Voltaren has been found to be effective for managing acute and chronic pains from conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, where oral analgesics have not provided relief.
What conditions is Voltaren approved to treat?
Voltaren is an FDA-approved medication primarily used for the treatment of:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis, a type of arthritis that affects the spine.
It works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation. Voltaren provides targeted relief at the source of pain and can be used either topically or orally, depending on individual needs and doctor's recommendations.
How does Voltaren help with these illnesses?
Voltaren, also known as diclofenac, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), which means it works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation. It's often used for conditions such as arthritis or muscular discomfort. Voltaren impacts cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in the body to lower the production of prostaglandins, substances released during an injury that cause pain and swelling. Its action on this pathway provides relief from symptoms such as pain and physical discomfort associated with different conditions. This makes it a preferred choice when patients do not respond well to other topical analgesics like Topricin, or may also be combined with them for a comprehensive pain management strategy.
How effective are both Topricin and Voltaren?
Both Topricin and Voltaren are topically applied treatments designed for the relief of pain. They are both approved by the FDA and are available over-the-counter.
Topricin and Voltaren work differently to alleviate pain. Topricin uses a combination of natural plant extracts and biomedicines to help enhance the body's innate ability to heal damage that causes pain and inflammation. On the other hand, Voltaren contains diclofenac diethylamine which is an nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for reducing swelling and as a painkiller.
In terms of their effectiveness, studies directly comparing these two medications are scarce. However, it is evident from separate clinical trials that they can both provide relief from symptoms such as muscular pain and joint pain caused by arthritis.
Voltaren gel has been widely studied for its efficacy in treating osteoarthritis-related joint pain, specifically in the knees and hands. The optimal application frequency varies depending on the severity of symptoms, but usually ranges between 2 to 4 daily applications. Beyond alleviating localized physical discomfort from things like muscle sprains or strains, it also appears to be effective in dealing with actinic keratosis, a skin condition caused by sun exposure.
Topricin provides symptomatic relief from neuropathic/nerve-related pain, in addition to that caused by musculo-skeletal disorders. Most of the effectiveness data is based on individual patient reviews, but comparative clinical trial data is lacking. It tends to be considered when patients prefer homeopathic solutions or have known allergies or unpleasant reactions to NSAIDs, such as diclofenac present in voltaren.
Due to their distinct modes of action, either Voltaren or Topricin may be preferred. This also depends on individual patient profiles. Those preferring natural products might lean towards Topricin, whereas others might go for the proven pain relief from the NSAID-based option Voltaren, especially if they have chronic conditions like osteoarthritis requiring long-term management strategies.
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At what dose is Topricin typically prescribed?
Topical applications of Topricin can be applied as needed to the affected area, but should not exceed four times per day. It is suitable for all ages and is often used for management of pain and joint discomfort in conditions like arthritis. As with any medication, always follow the instructions and never exceed recommended dosages.
At what dose is Voltaren typically prescribed?
Voltaren treatment is generally started with applying a small amount of gel, about the size of a dime, to the affected area, up to 4 times per day. If no noticeable improvement or relief is felt after one week, it may be necessary to increase the dosage by using larger amounts of gel per application, not exceeding more than a one-inch strip of gel per dose. The maximum recommended daily usage should not exceed four applications within a 24-hour period, and continuous use (for longer than two weeks) should only be done under doctor's advice. Always remember that Voltaren is meant for external use only and must never be ingested or applied on open wounds or broken skin.
What are the most common side effects of Topricin?
With Topricin, you might experience certain mild side effects, which can include:
- Mild skin irritation at the application site
- Sensitivity reaction or allergic reaction in people with allergies to certain plants that Topricin contains among its ingredients
Always remember to follow the product instructions and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns about these potential side effects.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Topricin?
Topricin also has a few potentially serious side effects that can occur in rare instances:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat.
Although very unlikely due to its topical application, if you notice any of the following systemic side effects, stop usage and contact a healthcare professional immediately:
- Mood changes or signs of depression (such as suicidal thoughts)
- Heart-related symptoms such as a fast/pounding heartbeat
- Confusion, sudden weight gain, or muscle weakness (possibly indicating low sodium levels in the body)
Remember that Topricin is intended for external use only. If ingested accidentally, it could potentially cause harm, so always keep it out of reach of children and pets.
What are the most common side effects of Voltaren?
Voltaren can cause the following side effects:
- Upset stomach, nausea, heartburn
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Headache or dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Mild itching or skin rash
- Ringing in your ears
As with all medications designed to relieve from muscle or joint pain, individual reactions will vary and should be monitored closely to watch for potential side effects.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Voltaren?
While Voltaren is generally considered safe, it can also cause serious side effects in rare cases. These include:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Severe skin reactions like fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, or a red/purple rash that spreads and causes blistering/peeling
- Symptoms indicating liver problems such as nausea, upper stomach pain, itching/tiredness, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
- Kidney issues, which can be indicated by little to no urination, swelling in feet/ankles, fatigue, or shortness of breath
- Heart-related signs, including chest pain that spreads to the jaw or left arm, sudden numbness on one side of the body, slurred speech, or problems with vision or balance.
If you experience any of these symptoms while using Voltaren, stop its use and seek medical attention immediately.
Contraindications for Topricin and Voltaren
Topricin and Voltaren, like other pain relief creams, may not provide symptomatic relief for everyone. If you notice a lack of effectiveness or worsening symptoms after applying eiher of these creams, please consult with your healthcare provider promptly.
Neither Topricin nor Voltaren should be applied to open wounds or damaged skin areas. It is also crucial to avoid getting the product in your eyes, mouth, or in contact with any other mucous membranes (i.e., in your nose, ears, rectum, etc.). Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after application to prevent potential irritation from accidental contact with sensitive body parts.
Both products have active ingredients that could cause allergic reactions in some people. Before starting regular use of either Topricin or Voltaren, test a small amount on an unbroken area of skin to check for sensitivity.
People who are already taking oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) should exercise caution when using topical NSAIDs like Voltaren due to potential increased risk of systemic side effects such as kidney damage and gastrointestinal bleeding. As always, let your doctor know about all medications you are currently taking, including OTC products like Voltaren or Topricin, as well as herbal or dietary supplements.
How much do Topricin and Voltaren cost?
For the brand-name versions of these topical pain relievers:
- The price of a 2 oz. (56 g) jar of Topricin averages around $16, which can last anywhere from 10 to 30 days depending on usage. This means it could cost between $0.50 and $1.60 per day.
- The price for a 100 g tube of Voltaren Emulgel is approximately $25. This can last from 10 to 30 days based on your usage, working out to roughly $0.83 to $2.50 per day.
Therefore, brand-name Voltaren will tend to be slightly more expensive than Topricin on a per-day treatment basis.
It's important to remember that cost should not be the primary consideration in determining which product best suits your needs, as they have very different ingredient profiles and mechanisms of action in alleviating symptoms such as pain and inflammation.
As for generic versions or equivalents for these products:
- Generic diclofenac gel (like Voltaren) costs around $20-$40 per 100g tube, translating to about $0.67 to $4.00 per day, depending on usage.
- There isn't an exact generic equivalent available for Topricin since its formulation combines multiple homeopathic ingredients. However, similar multi-symptom over-the-counter analgesic creams range from approximately $0.50 to $0.90/day, again depending on the frequency and volume of applications.
Popularity of Topricin and Voltaren
Voltaren, a brand name for the drug diclofenac, was estimated to have been prescribed to about 6.8 million people in the US in 2020. Diclofenac accounted for around 14% of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) prescriptions in the US in that year. It is used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation stemming from a variety of medical conditions. Voltaren topical creams are also available over-the-counter in the US, but can also still be prescribed by a physician.
Topricin, on the other hand, is not a prescription medication but rather an over-the-counter homeopathic cream used to treat pain related to conditions such as arthritis and joint pain. It's difficult to estimate its total usage within the US due to it being available without prescription. However, it has gained popularity steadily over recent years due its natural ingredients and relative lack of side effects as compared to traditional NSAIDs.
Diclofenac (Voltaren) carries rare potential side effects such as heart attack, stroke, and gastrointestinal problems like bleeding or hole formation which can occur without warning symptoms if taken in high doses over the long-term. Topricin, on the other hand, presents minimal risk, making it increasingly popular among patients seeking safer alternatives for chronic pain relief.
Conclusion
Both Topricin and Voltaren are topical creams used to relieve pain, but they have different active ingredients and mechanisms of action. Topricin is a homeopathic product that contains several plant extracts and natural biomedicines intended to support the body's healing process and alleviate pain associated with arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, neuropathy, sports injuries, and other types of muscle and joint discomfort.
Voltaren, on the other hand, contains diclofenac diethylamine, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works to reduce inflammation at its source in order to alleviate pain. It is typically used for conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
While both products can be purchased without a prescription in many countries, their use should still be guided by appropriate advice from a healthcare professional due to potential side effects. Both products can cause skin reactions at the application site. However, Voltaren has more contraindications, such as in those taking aspirin or other NSAIDs, which can lead to asthma attacks.
As always, when considering treatment options for managing pain (or any other health condition), it’s important to discuss your options with your healthcare provider who can consider your specific situation and make personalized recommendations that are likely to be safe and effective for you.
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Refrences
- Kajander, A., & Martio, J. (1978, January). Diclofenac Sodium (Voltaren) And Naproxen in the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Comparative Double-Blind Study. Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology. Informa UK Limited.http://doi.org/10.3109/03009747809097218
- McPherson, M. L., & Cimino, N. M. (2013, December). Topical NSAID Formulations. Pain Medicine. Oxford University Press (OUP).http://doi.org/10.1111/pme.12288
- Menassé, R., Hedwall, P. R., Kraetz, J., Pericin, C., Riesterer, L., Sallmann, A., … Jaques, R. (1978, January). Pharmacological Properties of Diclofenac Sodium and Its Metabolites. Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology. Informa UK Limited.http://doi.org/10.3109/03009747809097211