Hey guys, I just wanted to get your opinion on a matter regarding NSAID treatment of Diclofenac, specifically with someone with diagnosed hypertension. A client of mine has had a history of heart attacks and, also diagnosed with stage 4 OA in his left knee. He uses the prescribed NSAID knowing the risk it could raise his blood pressure. I have found some information on it not having a good reputation in US for this reason. I was wondering your thoughts, and if Austin ever resorts to using it. Please know I am not going to be irresponsible and take your potential advice and administer it to my client , I will tell him to go see his doctor or get a second opinion if need be.
Thanks for sharing all your knowledge. I am a loyal and true to BBM.
Are you referring to oral (systemic) or topical diclofenac?
If he has a history of heart attacks, I would recommend against the use of systemic NSAIDs. Topical diclofenac gel has short-term analgesic effects that wear off over the first few weeks of treatment (I wrote about this and other osteoarthritis topics in our last couple issues of the BBM Newsletter).
We agree with the OA management approach outlined here: