Areston Special Precautions

Talk to the doctor or pharmacist before taking Areston: If the patient has ever had any stomach problems or heartburn after taking painkillers or anti-inflammatory.
If the patient suffers from severe skin reactions.
If the patient suffers from asthma, hay fever or has had long-term problems of the respiratory tract, such as nasal polyps or chronic obstructive airways diseases.
If the patient has a tendency to develop allergic skin diseases, itchy skin or hives.
If the patient has a history of gastrointestinal disease, for example ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
If the patient has a bleeding disorder or any other blood disorder, including a rare condition called porphyria.
If the patient has an inflammatory disease called systemic lupus erythematosus or another disease of the connective tissue.
If the patient has liver or kidney problems.
If the patient thinks they are dehydrated (e.g. due to sickness, diarrhoea, before or after major surgery).
If the patient has chickenpox (varicella).
If the patient has significant risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, diabetes, or if they smoke; they should discuss their treatment with the doctor or pharmacist.
If the patient is currently having medical treatment for a serious illness.
If the patient is taking Trimethoprim (a medicine used used to prevent or treat urinary tract infections).
If the patient is taking medicines used to treat arthritis or other pain relievers (e.g. acetylsalicylic acid,ibuprofen) or other anti-inflammatory medicines (corticosteroids).
If, at any time while taking Areston the patient experiences any signs or symptoms of problems with their heart or blood vessels such as chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or slurring of speech, contact the doctor immediately.
Medicines such as Areston may be associated with a small increased risk of heart attack (myocardial infarction) or stroke. Any risk is more likely with high doses and prolonged treatment.
Make sure the doctor or pharmacist knows, before the patient takes diclofenac: If the patient smokes.
If the patient has diabetes (diabetes mellitus).
If the patient has tight, painful feeling in the chest (angina), blood clots, high blood pressure, raised cholesterol or raised levels of cholesterol or triglycerides (certain fats) in their blood.
Side effects may be minimised by using the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
Do not exceed the recommended dose and do not take it longer than the recommended duration (3 days for relief for fever and relief of pain).
Older people may be more sensitive to the effect of diclofenac than other adults. If the patient is older than 65 years, it is important that they follow the instructions carefully and take the lowest number of tablets that still provides sufficient relief of symptoms. It is especially important for older people to immediately report any side effects to their doctor or pharmacist.
Diclofenac may reduce the symptoms of an infection (e.g. headache, high temperature). This may therefore make it more difficult to detect or treat the infection. If the patient is not feeling well and need to visit a doctor, remember to mention that they are taking diclofenac.
Prolonged use of any type of painkiller for headaches can make headaches worse. If the patient thinks this applies to them, consult the doctor for advice.
Tell the doctor if the patient recently had or they are going to have a surgery of the stomach or intestinal tract before receiving/taking/using Areston, as diclofenac can sometimes worsen wound healing in their gut after surgery.
Areston contains lactose and soya oil: If the patient has been told by their doctor that they have an intolerance to some sugars, contact the doctor before taking this medicinal product.
If the patient is allergic to peanut or soya, do not use this medicinal product.
Driving and using machines: Usually this medicine has no influence on the ability to drive or use machines. However, in rare cases the patient may experience vision disorders, dizziness or drowsiness (see Side Effects). If the patient notices such effects, do not drive or use machines and they must immediately contact the doctor.