D F O Gel 50 Gm

DFO Gel 50 GM by Ozone Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

DFO Gel is a topical analgesic and anti-inflammatory medication manufactured by Ozone Pharmaceuticals Ltd., designed for localized pain relief.

Composition

DFO Gel contains a combination of active ingredients:

• Diclofenac Diethylamine: 1.16% w/w (equivalent to Diclofenac Sodium 1.0% w/w), a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain, swelling, and inflammation by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis.
• Methyl Salicylate: 10.0% w/w, a counter-irritant that produces a warming sensation and helps soothe sore muscles and joints.
• Menthol: 5.0% w/w, which provides a cooling and soothing effect, helping to relax muscles and relieve pain.
• Linseed Oil: 3.0% w/w (Flaxseed Oil), known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which helps reduce swelling and pain. The formulation also includes Benzyl Alcohol as a preservative.

Uses

DFO Gel is prescribed for the treatment of pain, swelling, and inflammation associated with various musculoskeletal conditions. It is commonly used for:

• Muscle and joint pain, including backache, neck pain, shoulder pain, and knee pain.
• Sprains, strains, tendonitis, and bursitis.
• Arthritis (such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis).
• Pain resulting from sports injuries (avoiding application on open wounds).

Dosage and Administration

DFO Gel is for external use only. Clean and dry the affected area before application. Apply a thin layer of the gel to the painful area and gently massage until it is fully absorbed, typically 3-4 times a day or as directed by a healthcare professional. Wash hands thoroughly before and after application, unless the hands are the area being treated.

Side Effects

Common side effects at the application site may include:

• Redness
• Itching
• Burning or stinging sensation
• Irritation Rarely, systemic side effects like headache or rash may occur. More serious, but extremely rare, side effects such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and exfoliative dermatitis have been noted.

Precautions

• Do not apply DFO Gel to broken skin, open wounds, cuts, burns, or near the eyes or mouth.
• Exercise caution in patients with a history of gastrointestinal ulceration, impaired cardiac, renal, or hepatic function, and hypertension.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before use; prolonged use on large skin areas is not recommended, and breastfeeding women should avoid applying it on the chest area.
• Avoid use if allergic to diclofenac, aspirin, other NSAIDs, or any components of the gel, particularly if such allergies lead to asthma attacks or skin reactions.
• Not recommended for children under 14 years, and children under 2 years should not use it; older children should use it under adult supervision.
• Avoid concomitant use with sunscreens, cosmetics, lotions, or other topical medications on the same skin site.
• Direct sunlight exposure to the treated area may increase the risk of sunburn.

Storage

Store DFO Gel in a cool and dry place, away from heat and direct sunlight, ideally below 25°C. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

DFO Gel 50 GM by Ozone Pharmaceuticals Ltd. is a topical pain relief preparation used for various musculoskeletal and joint conditions. It contains a combination of active ingredients that work together to reduce pain and inflammation.

Here are some frequently asked questions about DFO Gel:

What is DFO Gel used for?

DFO Gel is primarily used for the local symptomatic relief of mild to moderate pain, swelling, and inflammation associated with musculoskeletal and joint conditions. This includes conditions like sprains, strains, arthritis (such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis), low back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, muscle stiffness, and pain from sports injuries.

How does DFO Gel work?

DFO Gel contains a combination of diclofenac, methyl salicylate, linseed oil, and menthol. Diclofenac and methyl salicylate are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that reduce pain and inflammation by blocking certain chemical messengers in the body. Linseed oil also has anti-inflammatory properties, further reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation, while enhancing the penetration of diclofenac into the skin. Menthol provides a soothing and cooling sensation by dilating blood vessels and offers an analgesic effect, contributing to overall pain relief.

What is the usual dosage and how should it be applied?

DFO Gel is for external use only. A thin layer of the gel should be applied to the affected area and gently massaged until absorbed. It is typically recommended to apply the gel 3-4 times a day, or as directed by your doctor. Always wash your hands thoroughly before and after applying the gel, unless your hands are the area being treated. Avoid applying it to open cuts, wounds, burns, or damaged skin, and keep it away from your eyes, nose, mouth, and mucous membranes.

What are the possible side effects of DFO Gel?

Common side effects at the application site may include itching, irritation, redness, a burning sensation, or a skin rash. These reactions are usually mild to moderate and often subside as your body adjusts to the medicine. If any side effects persist, worsen, or cause significant discomfort, you should consult your doctor. Rarely, individuals allergic to NSAIDs might experience more severe reactions like asthma attacks or blistering skin rashes.

Is DFO Gel safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: DFO Gel, particularly due to its diclofenac content, is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. It can potentially cause problems with the baby's blood circulation and affect amniotic fluid levels. It should only be used if specifically advised by a doctor, and then only for a short duration, with the benefits clearly outweighing the risks. Paracetamol is generally considered a safer painkiller during pregnancy.

Breastfeeding: Small amounts of diclofenac may pass into breast milk, but DFO Gel is generally considered safe for use during breastfeeding as the amounts are tiny and unlikely to cause side effects in the infant. However, it's crucial to avoid applying the gel directly to the chest area to prevent accidental ingestion by the baby. Always wash your hands thoroughly after application and before handling your baby. Consult your doctor for personalized advice if you are breastfeeding.

Can DFO Gel be taken with other medications?

While DFO Gel is a topical medication and systemic absorption is limited, prolonged use or application over large skin areas can lead to some systemic absorption of diclofenac, which may interact with other medicines. You should inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking. Caution is advised if you are taking other NSAIDs, blood thinners (like warfarin), corticosteroids, certain antidepressants (SSRIs/SNRIs), or lithium, as there could be an increased risk of side effects or altered drug levels. It is generally recommended to avoid using other painkiller gels or oral NSAIDs concurrently with DFO Gel unless prescribed by your doctor.

What precautions should be taken while using DFO Gel?

Always use DFO Gel strictly as advised by your doctor and only for external application. Do not apply the gel to open wounds, cuts, burns, or damaged, inflamed, or irritated skin. Avoid contact with eyes, nose, mouth, or mucous membranes; if accidental contact occurs, rinse immediately with plenty of clean water. Do not cover the treated area with tight bandages, occlusive dressings, or apply heat unless specifically instructed by your doctor. It is not recommended for children below 14 years of age without medical supervision. Also, avoid exposure to direct sunlight on the treated area, as it may increase the risk of skin reactions.

What happens if a dose is missed?

As DFO Gel is typically applied when you experience pain, missing a dose is less common. If you do miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular application schedule. Do not apply extra gel to compensate for a missed dose.

How should DFO Gel be stored?

DFO Gel should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. It should be kept out of the sight and reach of children and pets. The recommended storage temperature is typically at room temperature, between 20-25°C, or below 30°C.