From the Research
Voltran (diclofenac) dosage for children should be 1 mg/kg for oral administration, as recommended by the most recent and highest quality study 1. This dosage is based on a pharmacokinetic meta-analysis that aimed to recommend a dose for children aged 1-12 years, yielding an equivalent area under diclofenac concentration-time curve (AUC) to a 50-mg dispersible tablet in adults. The study found that a single dose of 1 mg/kg for oral diclofenac in children aged 1-12 years is recommended, as it yields a similar AUC to 50 mg in adults 1. It is essential to note that diclofenac carries significant risks for children, including gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney problems, and cardiovascular risks, and should only be used for short periods (usually 3-5 days) under medical supervision 2, 3, 4, 5. Alternative pain relievers like acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen are generally considered safer first-line options for children. Some key points to consider when administering Voltran to children include:
- The medication should only be used under medical supervision
- The child's weight, age, medical history, and specific condition requiring treatment should be considered
- The risks of gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney problems, and cardiovascular risks should be carefully evaluated
- Alternative pain relievers should be considered as first-line options.