Olfen

Olfen Gel is available as a gel in a concentration of 20 mg/g or 23.2 mg/g diclofenac diethylammonium diclofenac. The gel is packaged in tubes of various sizes (50 g, 100 g, 150 g, 180 g), each tube sealed to protect the contents from contamination.

Olfen Gel is indicated for:

• Short-term topical symptomatic treatment for acute pain, inflammation and swelling associated with soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains, sprains, contusions or other post-traumatic conditions of tendons, ligaments, muscles and joints, including sports injuries.
• Treatment of pain and inflammation in cases of back pain and other degenerative rheumatic conditions such as osteoarthritis of the peripheral joints and knees, as well as local forms of soft tissue rheumatism (e.g. tennis elbow or bursitis), as recommended by a doctor.

For adults and adolescents over the age of 14, apply the gel twice a day (preferably in the morning and evening) to the affected area, massaging gently until completely absorbed.

Depending on the surface area of the treated area, 2-4 g of gel is needed and the maximum daily dose is 8 g of gel.

The duration of treatment varies depending on the condition being treated. In general, for soft tissue injuries and back pain, treatment should not exceed 2 weeks without medical advice.

In adolescents (14-18 years old), treatment should not exceed 7 days without a doctor's advice.

Olfen is contraindicated in the following situations:

• Allergy to diclofenac or any of the excipients of the medicine
• Hypersensitivity to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or other painkillers such as aspirin
• Open sores, eczema, inflammation or skin infections
• Children under 14

Olfen is for external application to intact skin only. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes and wash hands after application.

Important! If applied over large areas or for prolonged periods, there may be a risk of systemic adverse reactions, including on the digestive, liver or renal system.

Like all medicines, Olfen can cause side effects, although not all people experience them. Side effects include:

• Redness, itching, eczema, contact dermatitis
• Exfoliation, dryness or swelling of the skin
• Severe allergic reactions (asthma, swelling of the face or throat)
• Photosensitivity
• Gastrointestinal disorders

If allergy symptoms, such as severe rash or difficulty breathing, stop use and consult a doctor.

To date, no significant interactions have been reported between Olfen Gel and other drugs, as topical application limits systemic absorption. 

However, use with other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including other preparations containing diclofenac, may increase the risk of side effects.

It is recommended to talk to a doctor before combining Olfen Gel with other medicines. 

The risk of overdose is reduced due to topical application. If more than the recommended amount is applied by mistake, it is sufficient to remove the excess gel with soap and water. In case of accidental ingestion, consult a doctor immediately.

Olfen Gel should be stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight and excessive moisture. Make sure the tube is well closed and out of the reach of children. Also avoid using the gel after the expiry date stated on the packaging.

• Medline Plus, Diclofenac topic
• Mayo Clinic, Diclofenac
• PubMed, Topical diclofenac and its role in pain and inflammation
• MDPI, An evaluation of topical diclofenac use in musculoskeletal diseases