Kenyans Warned On The Dangers Of Self Medicating With Painkillers, Diclofenac.

The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) said in a statement on Friday that the painkiller should only be given with a prescription.

"The Pharmacy and Poisons Board wishes to draw the attention of the public to the use of 'Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), specifically Diclofenac for pain management," reads the statement in part.

Dr Fred Siyoi, PPB's Chief Executive Officer, warned that patients who take systemic Diclofenac on a regular basis have a small risk of heart attack or stroke, especially at high doses of 150 mg.

The Board then issued a warning, citing that Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs are linked to an increased risk of blood clots, particularly in patients with underlying heart problems or certain cardiovascular risk factors, resulting in a heart attack or stroke.

The Board advised the public that the painkiller should only be given out with a prescription.

Patients having a history of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, vessel blockage, or who have undergone surgery to clear or bypass such blockages should no longer take the medicine.

Smokers, as well as those with high blood pressure, cholesterol, or diabetes, have been advised to seek medical advice first before using the medicine.

Those who have been taking Diclofenac treatment will need to have their therapy assessed by a healthcare practitioner.