See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Licart
What side effects are linked to “Licart”?
“Licart” is commonly used to describe the topical diclofenac patch (a pain-relief medicine applied to the skin). The side effects people report with diclofenac patches typically fall into two groups: local skin reactions at the application site and less common whole-body effects.
What skin reactions might happen where you apply it?
The most likely side effects are at the patch site, such as:
- Redness
- Itching or rash
- Burning or irritation
- Dryness or swelling
- Blistering or skin peeling (less common)
Seek urgent help if you get signs of a severe allergic reaction (for example, widespread hives, facial/lip swelling, trouble breathing) or severe skin reactions.
Are there serious side effects beyond the patch skin?
Systemic (non-skin) side effects are less common with a patch than with tablets, but they can still occur with diclofenac exposure, including:
- Stomach irritation (dyspepsia) or pain, nausea
- Increased risk of bleeding or ulcers (especially if you also use NSAIDs like ibuprofen/naproxen or take blood thinners)
- Kidney-related issues (more likely in older adults or people with dehydration, kidney disease, or who use diuretics/ACE inhibitors)
- Blood pressure worsening or fluid retention
Stop using the patch and get medical advice promptly if you develop symptoms such as black/tarry stools, vomiting blood, reduced urination, sudden swelling, chest pain, or shortness of breath.
Who is more at risk for side effects?
Risk is higher if you:
- Have a history of NSAID allergy or asthma triggered by NSAIDs
- Have had stomach ulcers or GI bleeding
- Have kidney disease
- Take blood thinners (like warfarin), antiplatelet drugs, or other NSAIDs
- Are on medications that affect kidneys (such as ACE inhibitors/ARBs and diuretics)
Also, avoid applying the patch to broken skin or areas with active rashes.
How can you reduce the chance of irritation?
Common practical steps include:
- Apply to clean, dry, intact skin only
- Don’t use heating pads or tight bandages over the patch (can increase absorption and skin irritation)
- Wash hands after applying unless your hands are the treatment area
- Follow the prescribed wear time and number of patches per day
If skin reactions occur repeatedly, ask a clinician whether you should switch to a different formulation.
When should you contact a doctor right away?
Contact a clinician urgently if you get:
- Severe or spreading rash, blistering, or peeling skin
- Signs of allergy (facial swelling, breathing trouble)
- GI bleeding signs (black/tarry stools, vomiting blood)
- Swelling of the face/legs, major shortness of breath, chest pain
- Markedly decreased urination or severe weakness
Quick check: is “Licart” definitely the diclofenac patch?
Different products can share similar names. If you paste the exact label text (active ingredient and strength) or a photo of the box/ingredients, I can tailor the side-effect list more precisely.
Sources
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/diclofenac-topical/side-effects-of-diclofenac/
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/ (diclofenac transdermal prescribing information via FDA label repository)