NZ diclofenac alert
July 15, 2013
NEW Zealand’s pharmaceutical
products regulator, Medsafe, has
issued a safety alert on the use of
diclofenac (Voltaren) relating to the
risk of cardiovascular events.
Issued as an Alert Communication
under the Trans-Tasman Early
Warning System, Medsafe is citing
recent publications which it says
have suggested an increased risk
of heart attack and stroke with the
use of diclofenac.
“Medsafe and the Medicines
Adverse Reactions Committee have
concluded there is a very small
increased risk of these effects with
diclofenac, when used at high
doses and for long-term therapy,” a
Medsafe statement said.
Consumers are being told that
for most people, taking diclofenac
is safe, but people who have high
blood pressure, high cholesterol,
diabetes or smoke should consult
healthcare professionals to check
that the medicine is appropriate.
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