Quick Links

Introduction About VERSA GEL

VERSA GEL is a combination of Diclofenac, Linseed Oil, Menthol and Methyl Salicylate which belongs to the group of medicines called Analgesics, Flaxseed oil, Cooling agents and Organic esters. It is indicated to provide relief from acute musculoskeletal disorders such as sprains, strains, tendonitis, shoulder pain, bursitis, hand, neck, sciatica, muscle stiffness, joint pain, backache and pain of osteoarthritis of joints which is manageable by topical medicines.

VERSA GEL is not recommended for use in patients who have advanced kidney disease, had asthma, urticaria (allergic reaction) after use of NSAIDs such as aspirin, setting of coronary artery bypass graft surgery, broken or irritated skin.

VERSA GEL should not be used in pregnant women especially in the late pregnancy and it should be used with caution in breast-feeding women. It should not be used in children below 2 years of age and children having flu, chickenpox or fever.

Caution must be exercised while using VERSA GEL in elderly patients. The most common side effects of using VERSA GEL are skin rash, oedema, wheals, papules (tender bump), scaly skin, reddening of the skin, itching or prickling sensation may occur at the site of application. Ask for your doctor’s advise if any of these doesn’t improve or worsens.

Uses Of VERSA GEL

Manages pain, swelling and inflammation associated with:

sprains, strains, tendonitis, shoulder pain, bursitis, hand, neck, sciatica, muscle stiffness, joint pain and backache

How VERSA GEL Works

VERSA GEL helps in relieving aches and pain, where diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug which causes relief in pain and inflammation by inhibiting the factors that cause inflammation and pain called prostaglandins. Linseed oil helps in minimizing the skin irritation and soothes and calms the skin. Methyl salicylate is an organic ester, which is derived from plants acts by dilating the blood vessels and increasing the blood flow. It causes irritation of the skin and as a result of counter irritation, there is a sensation of warmth and relief in musculoskeletal pain. Menthol acts by imparting coolness to the skin and then warmth.

How to use VERSA GEL

Apply VERSA GEL as advised by your physician. It is for topical use only. Wash your hands before and after use. Gently rub VERSA GEL on the affected area till it disappears. Do not cover the applied areas with a bandage and do not apply on cuts and open wounds. Bathing should be avoided for at least 1 hour after the application of VERSA GEL. Avoid the contact of this medicine in your eyes, ears or nose and mouth.

Your doctor will decide the duration and frequency of the management depending upon your age and disease condition.

Side Effects Of VERSA GEL

Common

skin rash
oedema (swelling)
wheals (red, swollen skin)
papules (tender bump)
scaly skin
reddening of the skin
itching or prickling

Uncommon

oedema of face (angioedema)
apnoea (breathing problems during sleeping)
photosensitivity

Rare

Stop using VERSA GEL and inform your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects:

heart failure and oedema
gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration or perforation
signs of hepatotoxicity such as pruritus, diarrhoea, jaundice, nausea, fatigue, lethargy, stomach-ache and flu-like symptoms
signs of anaphylactic reactions such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat
serious skin reactions
raised blood pressure
renal toxicity (altered urine output, swelling of legs and ankles and shortness of breath)
signs of haematologic toxicity such as chills, fever, weakness, rapid breathing, paleness of the skin
convulsions (fits)

How To Manage Side Effects

Skin redness or itching:

Avoid hot showers because hot water can irritate your skin further. Do not scratch the affected area. Avoid sun exposure or UV rays as it may sensitize your skin. Use sunscreen and protective clothing when going outdoor. Regularly moisturize your skin after consulting the doctor. Consult your doctor if the symptom does not improve.

Warning & Precautions

Pregnancy

VERSA GEL should not be used in pregnant women especially in the late pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using it.

Breastfeeding

VERSA GEL should be used with caution in breastfeeding women only if considered clearly necessary. Consult your doctor before using it.

Driving and Using Machines

Effects of VERSA GEL on driving and using machines is not known. Consult with your doctor.

Alcohol

Avoid consumption of alcohol while using VERSA GEL.

Kidney

VERSA GEL is not recommended for use in patients having advanced renal disease. It should be used with caution in patients with impaired kidney function. Consult your doctor before using it.

Liver

VERSA GEL should be used with caution in patients having liver diseases. Consult your doctor before using it.

Allergy

Do not use VERSA GEL if you are allergic to Diclofenac, Linseed Oil, Menthol, Methyl Salicylate or other NSAIDs (such as aspirin).

Lungs

VERSA GEL is not recommended for use in patients who had an asthmatic attack after the use of NSAIDs such as aspirin or indomethacin. Consult your doctor before using it.

Heart Disease

VERSA GEL is not recommended for use in patients in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Consult your doctor before using it.

Others

VERSA GEL is not recommended for use if you:

have broken or irritated skin

Before using VERSA GEL, inform your doctor if you:

had allergic reaction or urticaria after the use of an NSAID like aspirin

Use in paediatrics:

VERSA GEL is not recommended for use in children below 2 years of age. It should not be used in children having flu, chickenpox or fever. VERSA GEL should be used with caution in children above 2 years of age. Consult your child’s doctor for advice.

Use in geriatrics:

VERSA GEL should be used with caution in elderly patients. Consult your doctor before using it.

Interactions

A. Drug–Drug Interactions:

Before using VERSA GEL, inform your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen (used to manage pain and inflammation), cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX2) inhibitors such as celecoxib, valdecoxib (used to manage osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis)
diuretics such as spironolactone, furosemide (used to manage excess fluid in the body)
cyclosporine, tacrolimus (used to supress immune system such as after transplants)
lithium, selective serotonin-re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as citalopram, sertraline (used to manage anxiety and depression)
digoxin, amiodarone (medicine used in managing an irregular heartbeat or heart failure), antihypertensives such as ramipril, azilsartan (used to lower down the blood pressure)
warfarin (used as a blood-thinning agents that reduce blood clotting)
oral hypoglycaemics such as metformin, sitagliptin (used to control blood sugar)
corticosteroids such as prednisolone (used as anti-inflammatory medicines)
antacids such as magnesium sulphate (used to manage heartburn, indigestion)
chloramphenicol, quinolone antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, moxifloxacin (used to manage some infections)
ketoconazole, fluconazole, miconazole, voriconazole (used to manage fungal infections)
sulfinpyrazone (used to manage gout)
mifepristone (used to terminate pregnancy)
metoclopramide, domperidone (medicines used to control nausea)
cholestyramine (used to manage high cholesterol or high blood fats)
imatinib, methotrexate (used to manage certain cancers)
sunscreens, cosmetics, lotions, moisturizers, insect repellents

Overdosage:

In case of accidental ingestion or too much application of VERSA GEL, consult your doctor immediately or visit the nearby hospital.

Synopsis

Drug	:	Diclofenac, Linseed Oil, Menthol, Methyl Salicylate
Pharmacological Category	:	Analgesics, Flaxseed oil, Cooling agents, Organic esters
Therapeutic Indication	:	pain, swelling and inflammation due to musculo-skeletal disorders
Dosage Forms	:	Gel, Liniment, Ointment, Roll on, Pain spray, Nanogel, Spray

More Information

Keep VERSA GEL out of reach of children
Store below 30°C

FAQs About VERSA GEL

Q: What is VERSA GEL and why is it prescribed?

A: VERSA GEL is a combination of diclofenac, linseed oil, menthol and methyl salicylate which belongs to the group of medicines called analgesics, flaxseed oil, cooling agents and organic esters. It is indicated to provide relief from acute musculoskeletal disorders such as sprains, strains, tendonitis, shoulder pain, bursitis, hand, neck, sciatica, muscle stiffness, joint pain, backache and pain of osteoarthritis of joints which is manageable by topical medicines.

Q: What are the precautions I need to take care while using VERSA GEL?

A: VERSA GEL is for topical use only. Wash your hands before and after use. Gently rub VERSA GEL on the affected area till it disappears. Do not cover the applied areas with a bandage and do not apply on cuts and open wounds. Bathing should be avoided for at least 1 hour after the application. External heat should not be given to the managed areas. Exposure to direct sunlight must be avoided after applying VERSA GEL. Avoid the contact of this medicine in your eyes, ears or nose and mouth.

Q: Can VERSA GEL be used in pregnant and breast-feeding women?

A: VERSA GEL should not be used in pregnant women especially in third trimester or late pregnancy. It should be used with caution in breastfeeding women only if clearly advised by the doctor. Consult your doctor before using VERSA GEL.

Q: Does VERSA GEL cause skin irritation?

A: Yes, VERSA GEL may cause skin irritation. VERSA GEL contains methyl salicylate which acts by dilating the blood vessels and increasing blood flow. It causes irritation of the skin and as a result of counter irritation, there is a sensation of warmth and relief in musculoskeletal pain.

Q: Is VERSA GEL safe for use in children?

A: VERSA GEL is not recommended for use in children below 2 years of age. It should not be used in children having flu, chickenpox or fever. VERSA GEL should be used with caution in children above 2 years of age. Consult your child’s doctor for advice.

References

1. K.D. Tripathi. NSAIDs and Antipyretic Analgesics, Drugs Acting on Skin and Mucous Membranes. Essentials of medical pharmacology. Seventh edition. 2013. Page – 204, 888 & 889.

2. Diclofenac Sodium. NIH National Library of Medicine, National center for biotechnology information. Pubchem. [Accessed on 19th July 2022] https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Diclofenac

3. Methyl Salicylate. NIH National Library of Medicine, National center for biotechnology information. Pubchem. [Accessed on 19th July 2022] https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Methyl-salicylate

4. J V Pergolizzi Jr, R Taylor Jr, J-A LeQuang, R B Raffa, NEMA Research Group. The role and mechanism of action of menthol in topical analgesic products. NIH National Library of Medicine, National center for biotechnology information. Pubmed.gov. June 2018. [Accessed on 19th July 2022] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29524352/#:~:text=Results%3A%20Menthol%20is%20a%20selective,nociceptors%20and%20then%20desensitizing%20them

5. Gaurav Kaithwas, Dipak K. Majumdar. Effect of L. usitatissimum (Flaxseed/Linseed) Fixed Oil against Distinct Phases of Inflammation. International Scholarly Research Notices. February 2013. [Accessed on 19th July 2022] https://www.hindawi.com/journals/isrn/2013/735158/

6. Cipla Ltd. Omni Gel. Ciplamed. [Revised in February 2020]. [Accessed on 19th July 2022] https://www.ciplamed.com/content/omni-gel

7. Lincoln Pharmaceuticals Limited. Sedimol Roll on gel. [Accessed on 19th July 2022] https://fdaghana.gov.gh/img/pils/Sedimol%20Rollon%20Gel%20(Diclofenac%20Diethylamine+Linseed%20oil+Menthol+Methyl%20Salicylate).pdf

Author Details

Written By Dr. R. Dinesh John Rajkumar - Pharm.D

Reviewed For Accuracy By Dr. Janet. C - Pharm.D

Last updated on 14 Jan 2023 | 05:14 PM(IST)