Diclofenac sodium gel is indicated for the topical treatment of actinic keratoses (AK). Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals [see Warnings and Precautions (5)]. Apply diclofenac sodium gel gently to lesion areas twice daily. to adequately cover each lesion.
Full Answer
What is diclofenac sodium and what is it used for?
What is diclofenac sodium? Diclofenac sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) available in over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that temporarily relieves minor to moderate aches and pains caused by arthritis.
What does diclofenac do to the body?
- Burning, dry or itching eyes
- discharge, excessive tearing
- hair loss, thinning of the hair
- increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight
- pain in the arms or legs
- redness, pain, swelling of the eye, eyelid, or inner lining of eyelid
- redness or other discoloration of the skin
- severe sunburn
What conditions does diclofenac sodium treat?
What Conditions does Diclofenac Sodium (Ophth) Solution Treat?
- inflammation of the eye following surgery
- visual sensitivity to light following surgery
- postoperative pain in eye
- prevent eye pupil constriction from eye surgery
What are all uses for diclofenac sodium gel 3%?
Medication Guide Diclofenac (dye kloe' fen ak) Sodium Gel, 3%. Diclofenac Sodium Gel, 3% is an NSAID that is used on the skin (topical) to treat a skin condition called actinic keratosis. Diclofenac Sodium Gel, 3% is not for use in children.
Is diclofenac sodium gel available over the counter?
On Feb. 14, 2020, the FDA announced that two popular symptom-relief drugs can now be sold without a doctor's prescription. One is diclofenac sodium topical gel, 1% (Voltaren Arthritis Pain), which is used to temporarily relieve arthritis.
How long can you use diclofenac sodium topical gel?
Nonprescription (over the counter) topical diclofenac comes as a 1% gel (Voltaren Arthritis Pain) to apply to up to 2 body areas (e.g., 1 knee and 1 ankle, 2 knees, 1 foot and 1 ankle, or 2 hands) 4 times daily for up to 21 days or as recommended by your doctor.
How do you use diclofenac sodium topical gel?
Put 10 drops of the solution at a time on your hand or directly to your knee. Apply the solution evenly on the front, back, and sides of your knee. After using the Pennsaid® solution, wait for at least 30 minutes before showering or bathing. Do not use external heat or dressings to the treated knee.
How often can you use diclofenac gel?
Adults—Apply 4 grams (g) to the affected skin areas four times a day (a total of 16 g each day). However, the total dose should not exceed 32 g per day over all affected joints. Use the enclosed dosing card to measure the appropriate dose.
When should you not use diclofenac gel?
Your doctor may tell you not to take diclofenac if you have a stomach ulcer or have had one in the past. If you need to take diclofenac but you're at risk of getting a stomach ulcer, your doctor may prescribe another medicine for you to take alongside diclofenac to protect your stomach.
Why do doctors not prescribe diclofenac?
The Feb. 12, 2013 study in PLoS Medicine (2013;10:e1001388) indicates that diclofenac use can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke in patients with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol or other high risk factors for cardiovascular problems.
Does diclofenac gel help muscle pain?
Diclofenac topical solution is used to treat pain and swelling caused by osteoarthritis of the knees. Diclofenac topical patch and topical system is used to treat acute pain caused by minor strains, sprains, and contusions (bruises). This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.
How effective is diclofenac gel?
Diclofenac sodium gel was associated with 42–45% reduction in visual analogue scale (VAS) pain intensity, 35–40% reduction in total Australian/Canadian Osteoarthritis Hand Index (AUSCAN) score and 36–40% reduction in global rating of disease after 4 and 6 weeks.
Does diclofenac gel work for arthritis pain?
Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is often used to treat arthritis pain. It comes in both topical and oral forms. The FDA approval of Voltaren Arthritis Pain is specifically for the topical gel form.
What happens if you use too much diclofenac sodium topical gel?
Taking too much diclofenac sodium does not usually cause serious problems. The person may have some stomach pain and vomiting (possibly with blood). However, these symptoms will likely get better. In rare cases, a blood transfusion is needed.
What kind of pain does diclofenac relieve?
Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat mild-to-moderate pain, and helps to relieve symptoms of arthritis (eg, osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis), such as inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain.
Is diclofenac gel safe?
Diclofenac gel is a safe and effective option for treating joint pain, especially in cases of arthritis. It can also be used to treat acute neck pain, back pain, tendonitis, and sprains and strains.
Can you use Voltaren Gel longer than 21 days?
Voltaren Arthritis Pain is not for immediate relief and may take up to 7 days to work. Consumers should stop use and seek medical attention if their arthritis pain is not improved in 7 days or they need to use the product for more than 21 days.
Is diclofenac sodium topical gel safe to use?
Diclofenac gel is a safe and effective option for treating joint pain, especially in cases of arthritis. It can also be used to treat acute neck pain, back pain, tendonitis, and sprains and strains.
What happens if you use too much Voltaren Gel?
Symptoms of overdose/swallowing may include: severe stomach pain, change in the amount of urine, slow/shallow breathing. Do not share this medication with others.
Can you overdose on diclofenac sodium topical gel?
Diclofenac sodium is a prescription medicine used to relieve pain and swelling. It is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Diclofenac sodium overdose occurs when someone takes more than the normal or recommended amount of this medicine. This can be by accident or on purpose.
What Do I Need to Tell My Doctor Before I Take Diclofenac Gel?
1. If you have an allergy to diclofenac or any other part of diclofenac gel (1%). 2. If you have an allergy to aspirin or NSAIDs. 3. If you are all...
What Are Some Things I Need to Know Or Do While I Take Diclofenac Gel?
1. Tell all of your health care providers that you take diclofenac gel (1%). This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists. 2. Have...
How Is This Medicine (Diclofenac Gel) Best Taken?
Use diclofenac gel (1%) as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely. 1. Do not take diclofenac ge...
What Are Some Side Effects That I Need to Call My Doctor About Right away?
WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor o...
What Are Some Other Side Effects of Diclofenac Gel?
All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help i...
How Do I Store and/or Throw Out Diclofenac Gel?
1. Store at room temperature. Do not freeze. 2. Protect from light. 3. Store in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom. 4. Keep all drugs in a saf...
What is diclofenac used for?
Diclofenac topical is a member of the topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatories drug class and is commonly used for Keratosis, Osteoarthritis, and Pain.
How much does diclofenac cost?
The cost for diclofenac topical topical gel 1% is around $12 for a supply of 100 grams, depending on the pharmacy you visit. Prices are for cash paying customers only and are not valid with insurance plans.
How much does a free drug card save?
The free Drugs.com Discount Card works like a coupon and can save you up to 80% or more off the cost of prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs and pet prescriptions.
Why is topical gel important?
Topical Gel. Important: When there is a range of pricing, consumers should normally expect to pay the lower price. However, due to stock shortages and other unknown variables we cannot provide any guarantee. Important: When there is a range of pricing, consumers should normally expect to pay the lower price.
What are some things I need to know or do while I take Diclofenac Gel?
Tell all of your health care providers that you take diclofenac gel (1%). This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
How is this medicine (Diclofenac Gel) best taken?
Use diclofenac gel (1%) as ordered by your doctor. Read all information given to you. Follow all instructions closely.
What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Diclofenac Gel?
If you have an allergy to diclofenac or any other part of diclofenac gel (1%).
What are some other side effects of Diclofenac Gel?
All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:
How to keep diclofenac gel out of eyes?
Keep out of your mouth, nose, and eyes (may burn). Wash your hands before and after use. Clean affected part before use. Make sure to dry well. If you get diclofenac gel (1%) in your eyes, wash right away with water. If you have eye irritation that lasts or a change in eyesight, call your doctor.
How to treat eye irritation after diclofenac?
If you have eye irritation that lasts or a change in eyesight, call your doctor. Put a thin layer on the affected skin and rub in gently. Do not use sunscreen, insect repellant, or other drugs on affected part. If putting diclofenac gel (1%) on the hand, do not wash your hands for at least 1 hour after putting on.
What to do if you swallow diclofenac?
If diclofenac gel (1%) is swallowed, call a doctor or poison control center right away. This medicine is not approved for use in children. Talk with the doctor. If you are 65 or older, use diclofenac gel (1%) with care. You could have more side effects.
How much does pennasid reduce systemic exposure?
When compared with oral diclofenac sodium, PENNSAID 2% reduced systemic exposure by 93%. 2
How does DMSO work?
DMSO facilitates penetration of diclofenac through the skin barrier. 5 DMSO enhances the permeability of cell membranes, facilitating localized delivery of diclofenac sodium by driving it through the skin barrier directly to the site of pain. 1,5
Can pennasid be discontinued?
Elevation of one or more liver tests may occur during therapy with NSAIDs. PENNSAID should be discontinued immediately if clinical signs and symptoms consistent with liver disease develop. Measure transaminases at baseline and periodically in patients receiving long-term therapy with PENNSAID. PENNSAID should be discontinued immediately if abnormal liver tests persist or worsen or if clinical signs and/or symptoms consistent with liver disease develop.
Can NSAIDs cause ulceration?
Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Ulceration, and Perforation. NSAIDs cause an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms.
Can a pennasid cause oligohydramnios?
Use of NSAIDs, including PENNSAID, can cause premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus and fet al renal dysfunction leading to oligohydramnios. Limit dose and duration of use between about 20 and 30 weeks of gestation and avoid use at about 30 weeks of gestation and later in pregnancy. Consider withdrawal of NSAIDs in women who have difficulties conceiving or who are undergoing investigation of infertility.
Where to report side effects of prescription drugs?
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit http://www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Can NSAIDs cause GI bleeding?
NSAIDs cause an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms. Elderly patients and patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding are at greater risk for serious GI events.
How to use diclofenac gel?
How to use the gel 1 Before you start using diclofenac gel, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack. It will give you more information about Solaraze® and will provide you with a full list of any side-effects which you may experience. 2 Use the gel twice daily for 2-3 months. Apply a thin layer and gently massage it into the affected area. Remember to wash your hands well afterwards (unless you are treating your hands).
What is diclofenac gel used for?
Solaraze® and Solacutan® gels contain diclofenac, which is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). They are used to treat skin damage caused by sun exposure - a condition called solar keratosis. Topical treatments (meaning you apply them to the skin) are useful if you have a lot of small solar keratoses.
How long does Solaraze gel last?
Use the gel twice daily for 2-3 months. Apply a thin layer and gently massage it into the affected area. Remember to wash your hands well afterwards (unless you are treating your hands).
How to dispose of expired medications?
Do not keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
Can you use diclofenac gel with Solaraze?
There are other brands of diclofenac gel manufactured too, but these are used to treat painful muscle and joint conditions - they are not interchangeable with Solaraze® or Solacutan®.
Can you stop diclofenac?
If this is severe, stop using diclofenac and ask your doctor or pharmacist for further advice. Using large amounts of gel can very occasionally lead to allergic-type reactions and breathing problems in some people. Stop using diclofenac and contact a doctor for further advice.
Can you use gel on your eyes?
Try to avoid the gel coming into contact with your eyes, and do not apply it to any broken or irritated areas of your skin. If this does happen by accident, wash it off with warm water as soon as possible.
Important Note
- The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your …
Uses
- Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is used topically to treat a skin condition called actinic keratoses (AK).
Side Effects
- Skin irritations (e.g., dryness, redness, itching, or scaling) may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: muscle pain, trouble breathing, swelling, open sores on the skin (ulcers), eye redness or swelling (conjunctivitis). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely b…
Precautions
- Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney or liver disease, stomach ulcers/bleeding, open skin wounds/lesions, skin infections, asthma, nasal polyps, any allergies - especially to preservatives such as benzyl alcohol or other aspirin/NSAID medications (e.g., ibuprofen, celecoxib). Your condition and this medication may make you more sensitive to the s…
Drug Interactions
- Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: oral NSAID medicines (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen), other topical medications (e.g., creams, lotions). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Overdose
- If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. Symptoms of overdose may include: seizures, stomach pain, trouble breathing.
Notes
- Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.
Missed Dose
- If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage
- Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Protect from heat. Do not freeze.