First topical treatment for osteoarthritis approved by FDA

It is the only topical medication proven to significantly reduce osteoarthritis pain in both the knees and the joints of the hands.

Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative arthritis, is a chronic condition characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the joint.

The main symptoms of the disease include chronic pain which causes loss of mobility and stiffness and deterioration of overall coordination, posture and walking.

It often causes a crackling noise when the affected joint is moved or touched and patients may experience muscle spasm and contractions in the tendons.

"Risk factors for osteoarthritis include obesity, previous knee injury or surgery, and repeated strain through occupational bending and lifting. In the knees, the pain is usually aggravated by activity, such as climbing stairs or walking long distances," says Dr. N Gangadharan, Clinic Head, Emirates Diagnostic Clinic. "Patients may also experience some morning stiffness lasting less than 30 minutes," he added.

About one third of adults worldwide have signs of osteoarthritis in their x-rays in at least one joint and in the US it is estimated that 6% of those over 30 have a troublesome osteoarthritis knee.

The World Health Organization, lists osteoarthritis in the top 10 of the global disease burden.

Clinical trials in more than 900 patients have demonstrated Voltaren Emulgel to be highly effective in treating osteoarthritis pain in the hands and knees, the most commonly affected joints.

The gel delivers pain relief with a favorable safety profile as its systemic absorption is 94% less than the comparable oral diclofenac treatment.

George Wagih, Brand Manager, Novartis Consumer Health:

"The combination of benefit and safety provides a welcome new treatment approach for osteoarthritis. Voltaren Emulgel delivers the proven efficacy of diclofenac with significantly less systemic absorption, minimizing the risk of side effects, he continued. Patients now have the option to effectively treat osteoarthritis pain directly at the source with favorable tolerability."

Worldwide osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is among one of the most prevalent and disabling chronic conditions.