Sunday December 6, 2009
Back in October 2007, Voltaren Gel was the first prescription topical treatment for osteoarthritis approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Voltaren Gel, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication in topical form, was then an exciting new treatment option -- especially for patients who suffer gastrointestinal side effects from oral NSAIDs.
The makers of Voltaren Gel and the U.S. FDA have announced changes to its label -- revisions to the Hepatic Effects section of the Prescribing Information -- regarding the "potential for elevation in liver function tests during treatment with all products containing diclofenac sodium."
Drug-induced hepatotoxicity cases have been reported in the first month of use but can occur at any time during treatment with diclofenac. Severe hepatic reactions including liver necrosis, jaundice, fulminant hepatitis with or without jaundice, and liver failure have been reported in postmarketing reports. Transaminases (liver enzymes) should be monitored on a regular basis for all patients using diclofenac longterm.
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Saturday December 5, 2009
Do you have a pet? A dog or cat? If not, have you thought of getting one? Choosing the right dog or cat when you have arthritis is important. Consider your lifestyle when selecting the perfect pet. A pet can be a wonderful companion that could melt your heart and help you forget about your arthritis pain.
If you have arthritis, there are special considerations when choosing a dog or cat. Don't rush your decision -- take time and think it through. The size, care requirements, and personality of the dog or cat are just a few important factors. Basically, you want to have a dog or cat that you can manage. Take into account your physical limitations and energy level when choosing your pet. We've put together a few tips for Choosing the Right Dog or Cat When You Have Arthritis.
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Thursday December 3, 2009
Living with arthritis can be a positive experience -- although challenging at times. To live well with arthritis, you must understand that while arthritis is your reality, you still can have a full, rewarding, and prosperous life. It's not a given that living with arthritis is a bad life.
Use a checklist to help you manage important aspects of living with arthritis. For each item on your personal checklist, periodically assess or rate how you are doing. Here's an example of a checklist -- you can use this one if it works well for you or create your own. Read through our Living With Arthritis Checklist.
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Sunday November 29, 2009
Your parenting skills and your ability to parent may have been tested if you live with arthritis pain. Physical limitations can interfere with your energy level and ability to share certain activities with your kids, for example. Not only that -- your patience, ability to discipline, and ability to cope with issues such as sibling conflict may be shortchanged.
Can you relate? Have you had this experience? If arthritis has impacted your parenting, share your story.
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