Patients with serious underlying heart conditions, such as heart failure, heart disease, circulatory problems or a previous heart attack or stroke should no longer use diclofenac, the MHRA confirmed in a safety alert in June.
This follows completion of a European review which found a small increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
Dr. Sarah Branch, Deputy Director of the MHRA’s Vigilance and Risk Management of Medicines Division said:
“Whilst this is a known risk and warnings have been included in patient and healthcare information for some time, this advice is now being updated.
“For many patients diclofenac will continue to provide safe and effective pain relief but is no longer suitable for certain at risk groups
“Those with underlying heart conditions currently taking diclofenac should speak to their GP or pharmacist at their next routine visit to consider an alternative pain relief treatment.
“Patients with certain cardiovascular risk factors such as high blood pressure, raised cholesterol, diabetes and smoking should only use diclofenac after careful consideration with their GP or pharmacist.”
For more information visit:
http://www.mhra.gov.uk/Safetyinformation/DrugSafetyUpdate/CON286975