Genac Plus

Genac Plus Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Genac Plus is a brand name. Its generic name is Diclofenac + Lidocaine.

Introduction

Diclofenac & Lidocaine, also known as a combination therapy, is a frequently used drug combination mainly used in treating moderate to severe acute pain. The combination combines the hydrochloride salts of both the drugs, thereby releasing two different kinds of active agents for faster and better relief.

Uses for

Diclofenac and Lidocaine is used primarily for the relief of mild to moderate pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, menstrual pain, postoperative pain, and other types of acute or chronic pain. It is also used to reduce inflammation and swelling caused by injury or disease.

Mechanism of Action

Diclofenac and Lidocaine work together to reduce localized pain and inflammation. Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that acts to reduce inflammation. It works by blocking prostaglandins, which are substances in the body that cause inflammation. Lidocaine is an anesthetic numbing agent that blocks nerve signals, reducing the overall sensation of pain.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

The effects of Diclofenac and Lidocaine usually start to take effect within 20 minutes of administration. Pain relief can be achieved within 30 minutes. However, the optimal results can take up to 1 hour to be seen.

Absorption

Diclofenac and Lidocaine are both rapidly and easily absorbed in the body. Diclofenac is rapidly absorbed and has concentrations close to those of the intravenous dose within 1 hour.

Route of Elimination

Diclofenac and Lidocaine are mainly excreted by the kidneys. Up to 98% of the drug is eliminated from the body in the urine. Unmetabolized Diclofenac is also passed through bile, where it is easily reabsorbed.

Dosage

The typical prescribed dosage is 15-20 ml containing 2.5-3 mg of each active component. It is important to follow all the given instructions on the local medication leaflet for proper dosing. The patient should also consult a doctor before starting with this medication, be careful and avoid taking an overdose.

Administration

Diclofenac and Lidocaine is usually prescribed for intramuscular injection into the affected area. It needs to be administered slowly using an injection over a period of 3-4 minutes.

Side Effects

Side effects of Diclofenac and Lidocaine combination might include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, rash, itching, and swelling of the face, hands, and feet. In extreme cases, this drug may cause liver, kidney, or blood disorders, anaphylaxis, or death.

Toxicity

Diclofenac and Lidocaine combination has low toxicity and the adverse effects can be managed with proper monitoring and supportive care. However, it is always advised to take a careful dose and be aware of its side effects, as sudden increased doses may lead to serious illness, like severe hypotension, bradycardia, or respiratory depression.

Precaution

This drug combination should not be given to patients with severe or moderate heart, liver, or kidney disorders, and those who are allergic to either of the two active components. People suffering from any psychological disorder or with a history of mental illness should avoid this drug. As this medication may cause drowsiness, caution should be taken while operating any heavy machinery or driving after taking this medication.

Interaction

Diclofenac and Lidocaine combination interacts with drugs like sedatives, central nervous system depressants, and other painkillers. It also interacts with certain foods, including citrus fruits, dairy products, processed meats, and chocolate.

Disease Interaction

Patients suffering from hypertension, diabetes, renal or hepatic diseases, ischemic heart disease, or any form of cardiovascular disorder should provide a complete medical history before taking this medication. Diclofenac and Lidocaine combination should not be used in such cases.

Drug Interaction

Diclofenac and Lidocaine combine should not be taken with other NSAIDs, Warfarin, Aspirin, Acetaminophen, and Iron, as it may lead to serious drug interaction. Other drugs such as opioids, muscle relaxants, antipsychotics, diuretics, and some antacids should not be taken together with this medication because they could interact and lead to undesired adverse effects.

Food Interactions

Alcohol should be avoided while taking Diclofenac and Lidocaine combination. Other foods that trigger undesired effects when taken with this medication include grapefruit juice, caffeinated beverages, and certain types of fishes and dairy products.

Pregnancy Use

It is important for pregnant women to consult a doctor before taking this medication as this has the potential to cause harm to the fetus. If taking this medication during pregnancy is found necessary, the patient should inform the doctor about any existing conditions and allergies.

Lactation Use

Diclofenac and Lidocaine should not be taken during lactation as it can get transferred to the infant through the mother’s milk, leading to various side effects.

Acute Overdose

If an overdose happens, medical attention should be sought immediately. It may lead to serious side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, dizziness, breathing difficulty, and fainting.

Contraindication

Diclofenac and Lidocaine should not be used in patients who have a history of allergy to any of its components. It should also not be used in people who have had a heart attack, a stroke, or other significant heart diseases.

Use Direction

The patient should carefully read and follow all the instructions as given by their doctor before starting the medication. The drug should be taken as prescribed by the doctor and at the right time as prescribed. The dosage should never be altered without consulting the doctor.

Storage Condition

The Diclofenac and Lidocaine combination should be stored in its original container, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. It should be kept in a cool and dry place, and out of reach of children.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of Diclofenac and Lidocaine combination is found to be 0.37 L/kg in humans.

Half Life

The plasma half-life of the drug combination can range from 1.8 to 2.6 hours.

Clearance

Diclofenac and Lidocaine combination has an oral clearance of 0.16 L/kg/h in humans.

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