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Voltaren Gel vs Celebrex
Introduction
For patients suffering from osteoarthritis or other forms of joint inflammation, certain medications that inhibit the production of compounds in the body associated with pain and swelling can help manage daily discomfort and improve mobility. Voltaren Gel and Celebrex are two such drugs commonly prescribed for these conditions. They each target different aspects of the inflammatory process but both have been shown to effectively relieve arthritis symptoms in many patients. Voltaren Gel is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) applied topically, directly affecting levels of prostaglandins at the application site to reduce inflammation and pain. Celebrex, on the other hand, is an oral medication classified as a selective COX-2 inhibitor which works systemically to reduce overall levels of prostaglandins throughout your body.
Voltaren Gel vs Celebrex Side By Side
| Attribute | Voltaren gel | Celebrex |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | Voltaren Gel | Celebrex |
| Contraindications | Should not be used with aspirin for stroke or heart disease prevention. Risk of serious gastrointestinal events. | Should not be used with aspirin for stroke or heart disease prevention. Risk of serious gastrointestinal events. |
| Cost | Approximately $0.50 to over $2 per day for generic options. Brand name around $60 for a 100g tube. | Approximately $0.70/day to about $3/day or more for generic options. Brand name around $240 for a pack of 30 capsules (200mg). |
| Generic Name | Diclofenac | Celecoxib |
| Most Serious Side Effect | Signs of serious allergic reaction, heart problems, liver problems, kidney issues, serious skin reactions. | Allergic reactions, stroke signs, liver problems, shortness of breath, swelling or rapid weight gain, severe skin rash. |
| Severe Drug Interactions | Increased risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events with other NSAIDs. | Increased risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events with other NSAIDs. |
| Typical Dose | 2–4 g per application, applied 3-4 times a day. Maximum dosage should not exceed 32 g/day. | 100-200 mg per day, can be increased to 400 mg/day if necessary. For some conditions, 200 mg twice daily may be used. |
What is Voltaren Gel?
Diclofenac (the generic name for Voltaren Gel) is a topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that was first approved by the FDA in 2007. It works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation, effectively "trapping" them at the site of application rather than having systemic effects. This localised treatment is often prescribed for osteoarthritis-related knee and hand pain because it targets specific areas of discomfort. Diclofenac has a selective influence on prostaglandins with less impact on other bodily functions, resulting in fewer side effects than oral NSAIDs.
On the other hand, Celecoxib (the generic name for Celebrex) was introduced as an alternative to traditional NSAIDs with reduced gastrointestinal side effects due to its COX-2 selectivity which inhibits inflammation without disrupting gastroprotective prostaglandins produced by COX-1 enzymes. Unlike Voltaren gel's localized action, Celebrex has systemic effects making it useful for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis where widespread joint inflammation occurs.
What conditions is Voltaren Gel approved to treat?
Voltaren Gel is approved for the treatment of various pain conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis in joints amenable to topical treatment, such as knees and those of hands
- Acute Pain due to minor strains, sprains and contusions
- It can be used for up to 21 days for most patients, depending on the condition.
On the other hand, Celebrex is typically indicated for:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis in patients who are two years or older (only oral form)
- Ankylosing Spondylitis And it also helps manage acute pain and dysmenorrhea.
How does Voltaren Gel help with these illnesses?
Voltaren Gel helps to manage pain and inflammation by reducing the amount of prostaglandins in the affected area. It does this by inhibiting cyclooxygenase, an enzyme that is involved in producing prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are compounds that play a key role in mediating inflammatory reactions and pain sensation among other physiological functions. When injury or inflammation occurs, high levels of prostaglandins are released leading to increased sensitivity to pain and swelling at the site of damage. Therefore, by decreasing prostaglandin production, Voltaren Gel can minimize symptoms associated with conditions such as osteoarthritis and help patients manage their discomfort locally without systemic side effects often seen with oral medications.
What is Celebrex?
Celebrex, also known as celecoxib, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that selectively inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), thereby reducing the production of prostaglandins which cause pain and inflammation. It was first approved by FDA in 1999. Unlike Voltaren Gel which is applied topically to provide local relief from pain and inflammation at specific sites of the body, Celebrex comes in oral form and provides system-wide relief from inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. The side effect profile for Celebrex differs compared to topical NSAIDs like Voltaren Gel; it may increase your risk of serious stomach or intestinal problems including bleeding or perforation (forming a hole). However, it doesn't have skin-related side effects that are commonly associated with topical treatments such as irritation or sensitivity reactions at the application site. This makes Celebrex beneficial especially for patients who need long-term systemic treatment for chronic inflammatory conditions.
What conditions is Celebrex approved to treat?
Celebrex, a brand name for the drug celecoxib, is approved by the FDA for use in:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Ankylosing Spondylitis
- Acute pain and menstrual cramps
This makes it an excellent option for those dealing with chronic joint disorders or recurrent acute pain.
How does Celebrex help with these illnesses?
Celecoxib, marketed as Celebrex, functions by inhibiting the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme involved in inflammation and pain responses throughout the body. This mechanism of action reduces both inflammation and pain, providing relief for conditions like arthritis or post-surgical discomfort. It is classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), similar to Voltaren Gel; however, it selectively targets COX-2 enzymes resulting in fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to traditional NSAIDs. Its oral administration can also provide systemic relief, unlike Voltaren Gel which works primarily on localized areas where applied externally. Because of its more specific action and broader range of effect, Celebrex may be preferred when patients do not respond well to topical treatments or require whole-body anti-inflammatory effects.
How effective are both Voltaren Gel and Celebrex?
Both Voltaren Gel (topical diclofenac) and Celebrex (celecoxib) are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with established histories of success in treating patients with arthritis, and they were initially approved by the FDA only a few years apart. Since they act on different cyclooxygenase enzymes, they may be prescribed under different circumstances. The effectiveness of Voltaren Gel and Celebrex in alleviating symptoms of osteoarthritis was directly studied in clinical trials; both drugs exhibited similar efficacy in managing pain as well as comparable safety profiles.
A 2007 review demonstrated that topical diclofenac is effective in alleviating joint pain associated with osteoarthritis starting from the first week of treatment. Its side effect profile is favorable over many oral NSAIDs due to lower systemic exposure, leading to fewer gastrointestinal adverse effects. Further, it is well-tolerated even in elderly populations who might have contraindications for oral NSAID use due to co-morbidities or concomitant medication use.
On the other hand, a 2018 review indicated that celecoxib seems to be more effective than placebo at relieving pain and improving physical function in osteoarthritis patients while also demonstrating an improved gastrointestinal safety profile compared to traditional NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen. Nonetheless, celecoxib should still be used cautiously especially among those at risk for cardiovascular disease given its potential increased risk compared to other NSAIDs.
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At what dose is Voltaren Gel typically prescribed?
Topical dosages of Voltaren Gel typically range from 2–4 g per application, applied 3-4 times a day on the painful area. However, studies have shown that even smaller quantities can be effective in pain management for many people. Children and adolescents may start with lesser amounts under adult supervision. The dosage can be increased after a few weeks if there is no response or if the pain persists. It's important to note that the maximum dosage of Voltaren Gel should not exceed 32 g/day in all combined treated areas.
At what dose is Celebrex typically prescribed?
Celebrex treatment generally commences with a dosage of 100-200 mg per day, taken orally. The dose can be increased to 400 mg/day if necessary, divided into two doses that are spaced about 12 hours apart for the management of acute pain or primary dysmenorrhea. For osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, the recommended daily dose is 200 mg but in some patients an increase to twice daily may yield additional benefits. The maximum allowed dose is usually capped at 800mg per day and should only be tested under doctor's supervision if there is no response to initial treatment after several weeks.
What are the most common side effects for Voltaren Gel?
The most common side effects for Voltaren Gel and Celebrex are quite different due to their formulation, application method (topical versus oral), and the specific class of medication they belong to. Here's what you might expect:
Some potential side effects from using Voltaren Gel include:
- Itching or rash at the site of application
- Dry skin
- Redness or discomfort at the site of application
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Indigestion
- Gas
Celebrex, on the other hand, can come with its own set of possible side effects like:
- Diarrhea
- Stomach upset/pain
- Swelling in hands/ankles/feet (edema)
-Dizziness
-Nervousness
-Impaired concentration
-Sleep disturbances
-Rash
-Urinary tract infections
Always remember that each individual reacts differently to medications. Some people may experience some or none of these side effects. If any persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Voltaren Gel?
While using Voltaren Gel, it is important to monitor for any potential severe side effects that may occur. Although these are rare, they can include:
- Signs of a serious allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing or swallowing; swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
- Symptoms related to heart problems: chest pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder; sudden numbness or weakness on one side of your body; slurred speech and feelings of shortness of breath
- Liver problems: nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, flu-like symptoms, loss of appetite (which might be accompanied by dark urine clay-colored stools), jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
- Kidney issues such as changes in the amount/coloration/patterns in urination
- Serious skin reactions: fever with sore throat and headache followed by a red/purple skin rash that spreads within hours/days causing blistering/peeling.
If you experience any unusual signs after starting this medication contact your healthcare provider immediately.
What are the most common side effects for Celebrex?
Celebrex, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), may cause several side effects including:
- Indigestion or gas
- Nausea and potential stomach ulcers
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Dizziness or headache
- High blood pressure which can lead to a fast heartbeat
- Skin rash and itching
- Upper respiratory tract infection symptoms like sore throat and stuffy nose
- Difficulty sleeping (insomnia) It should be noted that long-term use of Celebrex may also increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. Anything more than occasional muscle pain, weight loss, increased urination, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, agitation or hostility should be reported to your doctor immediately.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Celebrex?
While Celebrex is generally safe to use for individuals with musculoskeletal pain, in certain instances it can cause adverse reactions. Pay close attention to the following symptoms:
- Any indication of an allergic reaction, such as hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat
- Chest pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder and sudden numbness or weakness on one side of your body - these could be signs of a stroke
- Nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, loss of appetite and flu-like symptoms – which might indicate liver problems
- Shortness of breath even with mild exertion
- Swelling or rapid weight gain
- Skin rash that spreads especially in the face or upper body causing blistering and peeling
Should you experience any of these side effects while taking Celebrex stop using it immediately and consult with your healthcare provider.
Contraindications for Voltaren Gel and Celebrex?
Both Voltaren Gel and Celebrex, along with most other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke in some people. If you notice chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side of your body, slurred speech or any symptoms suggesting a stroke or heart attack after taking these medications, please seek immediate medical attention.
Neither Voltaren Gel nor Celebrex should be taken if you are already using aspirin to prevent stroke or heart disease. Moreover, the use of both these medications together can increase the risk for serious gastrointestinal adverse events including inflammation, bleeding ulcers and perforation. Always tell your physician which medications you are taking; ceasing usage of NSAIDs prior to starting another medication is often required to prevent dangerous interactions between them.
How much do Voltaren Gel and Celebrex cost?
For the brand name versions of these drugs:
- The price for a 100g tube of Voltaren Gel (1%) averages around $60, which works out to between $2–4/day, depending on your dose.
- A pack of 30 capsules of Celebrex (200mg) costs approximately $240, translating into roughly an expense of $8/day.
Consequently, if you are in the higher dosage range for Voltaren Gel (i.e., applying it more than twice daily), then brand-name Celebrex can be less expensive from a per-day treatment perspective. Remember that cost alone should not dictate your choice between these two medications.
In terms of generic options:
- Diclofenac gel is available in packs with approximate costs varying from about $0.50 to over $2 per day based on dosage and area covered.
- Generic celecoxib comes in various quantities and strengths with prices ranging from as low as about $0.70/day up to approximately 3$/day or even more.
Please note that actual cost will depend on insurance coverage, pharmacy chosen and location among other factors.
Popularity of Voltaren Gel and Celebrex
Diclofenac, in the form of Voltaren Gel, was prescribed to about 5.2 million people in the US during 2020. This topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) accounted for a significant portion of prescriptions for local pain relief medications. Notably, it is often used by patients who prefer or need to avoid oral NSAIDs due to gastrointestinal issues.
On the other hand, celecoxib, known by its brand name Celebrex among others, was prescribed to approximately 3.9 million people in the USA over that same year. As an oral medication and a selective COX-2 inhibitor, celecoxib accounts for almost 10% of overall NSAID prescriptions and is particularly common among those with chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis where systemic inflammation reduction is required.
Conclusion
Both Voltaren Gel (diclofenac) and Celebrex (celecoxib) have a long-standing record of usage in patients with arthritis and are supported by many clinical studies indicating that they are more effective than placebo treatments. They both fall under the category of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), but their mechanisms of action differ slightly; Voltaren Gel works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation, while Celebrex specifically targets the COX-2 enzyme, which is primarily responsible for inflammation.
Voltaren Gel is applied topically to the area where pain relief is needed, making it an excellent option for those with localized joint or muscle pain. On the other hand, Celebrex is taken orally and may be a preferred choice for systemic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis affecting multiple joints.
Both medications are available in generic form, providing significant cost savings especially for patients who must pay out-of-pocket. The effects of both medications may not be noticeable immediately, requiring some adjustment period.
The side effect profile between these two drugs differs due to their modes of application. Both are generally well-tolerated; however, because Voltaren Gel is applied topically rather than ingested like Celebrex, it often results in fewer systemic side effects like stomach upset - though skin irritation can occur at the application site. As always when starting new medication regimes involving NSAIDs like these two options, if any adverse reactions occur or symptoms worsen over time immediate medical attention should be sought.
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Refrences
- Altman, R., & Barkin, R. L. (2009, March). Topical Therapy for Osteoarthritis: Clinical and Pharmacologic Perspectives. Postgraduate Medicine. Informa UK Limited.http://doi.org/10.3810/pgm.2009.03.1986
- Clemett, D., & Goa, K. L. (2000, April). Celecoxib. Drugs. Springer Science and Business Media LLC.http://doi.org/10.2165/00003495-200059040-00017
- McPherson, M. L., & Cimino, N. M. (2013, December). Topical NSAID Formulations. Pain Medicine. Oxford University Press (OUP).http://doi.org/10.1111/pme.12288
- Brunner, M., Davies, D., Martin, W., Leuratti, C., Lackner, E., & Müller, M. (2011, May 12). A new topical formulation enhances relative diclofenac bioavailability in healthy male subjects. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology. Wiley.http://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2125.2011.03914.x
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- Mutru, O., Penttilä, M., Pesonen, J., Salmela, P., Suhonen, O., & Sonck, T. (1978, January). Diclofenac Sodium (Voltaren) And Indomethacin in the Ambulatory Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Double-Blind Multicentre Study. Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology. Informa UK Limited.http://doi.org/10.3109/03009747809097217