Gov't warns Kenyans against self-medicating with painkillers especially Diclofenac

In a statement issued on Friday, the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) noted that the painkiller should be dispensed on prescription basis.

The medicine, which is widely used as a pain reliever and as an anti-inflammatory particularly in conditions such as arthritis.

PPB Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Fred Siyoi warned that there is a small risk of heart attack or stroke in patients taking systemic Diclofenac regularly, especially at high doses of 150 mg.

"The Pharmacy and Poisons Board wishes to draw the attention of the public to the use of 'Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), specifically Diclofenac for pain management," reads part of the statement.

The Board went on to issue a warning stating that Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs are associated with an increased risk of blood clots especially in patients with underlying heart conditions or with certain cardiovascular risk factors which could lead to heart attack or stroke.

The Board advised members of the public that the painkiller should be dispensed on prescription basis.

The medicine is widely used as a pain reliever and as an anti-inflammatory particularly in conditions such as arthritis.

The health department warned that there is a small risk of heart attack or stroke in patients taking systemic Diclofenac regularly, especially at high doses of 150 mg.

Further, use of the drug is no longer recommended for patients with a history of heart attack or stroke, heart failure, blockages to vessels or have had an operation to clear or bypass such blockages.

Smokers or people with high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes have been urged to seek medical advise beforehand.

At the same time, those on long-term Diclofenac treatment will have to get their treatment reviewed by a healthcare professional.