Diclofenac topical
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Diclofenac 1 % Topical Gel – Uses, Side Effects, and More
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including diclofenac) may rarely increase the risk for a heart attack or stroke. This effect can happen at any time while using this drug but is more likely if you use it for a long time. The risk may be greater in older adults or if you have heart disease or increased risk for heart disease (for example, due to smoking, family history of heart disease, or conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes). Do not use this drug right before or after heart bypass surgery (CABG).
Also, this drug may rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. This side effect can occur without warning symptoms at any time while using diclofenac. Older adults may be at higher risk for this effect. (See also Precautions and Drug Interactions sections.)
Stop using diclofenac and get medical help right away if you notice any of the following rare but very serious side effects: stomach/abdominal pain that doesn’t go away, black/bloody stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, chest/jaw/left arm pain, shortness of breath, unusual sweating, confusion, weakness on one side of the body, sudden vision changes, trouble speaking.
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the benefits and risks of using this medication.
Warnings:
Nearly 60% of Americans surveyed support a Medicare for All program, according to Business Insider. Those in favor of Medicare for All include 75% of Democrats, 58% of registered Independents and 36% of Republicans, though Republican support jumps up to 64% when discussing an optional expanded Medicare program, also referred to as “Medicare for Some.”
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including diclofenac) may rarely increase the risk for a heart attack or stroke. This effect can happen at any time while using this drug but is more likely if you use it for a long time. The risk may be greater in older adults or if you have heart disease or increased risk for heart disease (for example, due to smoking, family history of heart disease, or conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes). Do not use this drug right before or after heart bypass surgery (CABG).
Also, this drug may rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. This side effect can occur without warning symptoms at any time while using diclofenac. Older adults may be at higher risk for this effect. (See also Precautions and Drug Interactions sections.)
Stop using diclofenac and get medical help right away if you notice any of the following rare but very serious side effects: stomach/abdominal pain that doesn’t go away, black/bloody stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, chest/jaw/left arm pain, shortness of breath, unusual sweating, confusion, weakness on one side of the body, sudden vision changes, trouble speaking.
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the benefits and risks of using this medication.
Uses
See also Warning section.This medication is used to relieve joint pain from arthritis. Diclofenac belongs to a class of drugs known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).If you are treating a chronic condition such as arthritis, ask your doctor about non-drug treatments and/or using other medications to treat your pain.
How to use diclofenac sodium topical
Read the Medication Guide and Patient Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using diclofenac and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication is for use on the skin only. To measure the right dose, use the dosing card(s) provided with the medication. Place a dosing card on a flat surface so that you can read the print on the card. Squeeze an even line of the medication from the tube onto the dosing card, using the marks on the card to measure the prescribed dose. Gently rub the medication into the entire affected joint, usually 4 times daily or as directed by your doctor. You may use the dosing card to apply the medication. Do not apply the medication on skin that has cuts, infections, or rashes.
If the package instructions direct you to reuse the dosing card, then after each use, hold the card with your fingertips, rinse, and dry. When you are ready to discard the dosing card, fold the card in half with the medication side inside and throw away out of the reach of children and pets. Wash your hands after using the medication unless you are using it to treat the hands. Do not shower, bathe, or wash any treated areas for at least an hour after applying the medication. Wait at least 10 minutes before covering the treated area with gloves or clothing. Do not wrap, bandage, or apply heat (such as a heating pad) to the treated area.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not apply more than 16 grams of diclofenac per day to any single joint of the lower body (such as knee, ankle, foot). Do not apply more than 8 grams of diclofenac per day to any single joint of the upper body (such as hand, wrist, elbow). No matter how many joints you are treating, do not use more than a total of 32 grams of diclofenac per day.
Discuss the risks and benefits of using this drug with your doctor or pharmacist. To reduce the risk of side effects, use this medication at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Do not increase your dose, use it more often than prescribed, or apply the medication to any area not prescribed by your doctor.
Do not get the medication in the eyes, nose, or mouth. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water. Contact your doctor right away if irritation lasts..
For certain conditions (such as arthritis), it may take up to 2 weeks of using this drug regularly until you get the full benefit.
If you are using this drug “as needed” (not on a regular schedule), remember that pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain occur. If you wait until the pain has worsened, the medication may not work as well.
Tell your doctor if your pain lasts or gets worse.
Side Effects
See also Warning section.
Skin irritation/redness may occur at the application site. If this effect lasts or gets worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine), symptoms of heart failure (such as swelling ankles/feet, unusual tiredness, unusual/sudden weight gain).
This drug may rarely cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. Get medical help right away if you have any symptoms of liver damage, including: nausea/vomiting that doesn’t stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
See also Warning section.
Before using diclofenac, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to aspirin or other NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: asthma, aspirin-sensitive asthma (a history of worsening breathing with runny/stuffy nose after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs), liver disease, stomach/intestine problems (such as bleeding, ulcers), heart disease (such as previous heart attack), high blood pressure, stroke, swelling (edema, fluid retention), blood disorders (such as anemia), bleeding/clotting problems, growths in the nose (nasal polyps).
Kidney problems can sometimes occur with the use of NSAID medications, including diclofenac. Problems are more likely to occur if you are dehydrated, have heart failure or kidney disease, are an older adult, or if you take certain medications (see also Drug Interactions section). Drink plenty of fluids as directed by your doctor to prevent dehydration and tell your doctor right away if you have a change in the amount of urine.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
This medicine may cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol and tobacco while using this medicine may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Limit alcohol and stop smoking. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about how much alcohol you may safely drink.
This medication may make the treated area more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Wear protective clothing when outdoors. Ask your doctor whether you should use sunscreen along with this medication. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness.
Older adults may be at greater risk for stomach/intestinal bleeding, kidney problems, heart attack, and stroke while using this drug.
Before using this medication, women of childbearing age should talk with their doctor(s) about the benefits and risks. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you plan to become pregnant. This medication may harm an unborn baby and cause problems with normal labor/delivery. It is not recommended for use in pregnancy from 20 weeks until delivery. If your doctor decides that you need to use this medication between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy, you should use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. You should not use this medication after 30 weeks of pregnancy.
It is unknown if this form of diclofenac passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Diclofenac topical
Generic name: diclofenac topical [ dye-KLOE-fen-ak-TOP-ik-al ]
Brand names: Pennsaid, Rexaphenac, Solaraze, Voltaren Topical
Dosage forms: topical cream (1%); topical gel (1%; 3%); topical kit (1%); topical solution (1.5%; 2%)
Drug class: Topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatories
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on May 5, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.
What is diclofenac topical?
Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
Diclofenac topical (for the skin) is used to treat joint pain caused by osteoarthritis. diclofenac topical is for use on the hands, wrists, elbows, knees, ankles, or feet. Diclofenac topical may not be effective in treating arthritis pain elsewhere in the body.
Pennsaid is for use only on the knees.
Solaraze is used to treat warty overgrowths of skin (actinic keratoses) on sun-exposed areas of the body.
Diclofenac topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Diclofenac topical can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke. Do not use this medicine just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG). Diclofenac topical may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal.
Before taking this medicine
Diclofenac topical can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke, even if you don’t have any risk factors. Do not use diclofenac topical just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).
Diclofenac topical may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal. These conditions can occur without warning while you are using diclofenac topical, especially in older adults.
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam, Flector, and others), or if you have ever had an asthma attack or severe allergic reaction after taking aspirin or an NSAID.
Diclofenac topical is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or if you smoke;
- a heart attack, stroke, or blood clot;
- stomach ulcers, bleeding in your stomach or intestines;
- asthma;
- liver or kidney disease; or
- fluid retention.
Diclofenac can affect ovulation and it may be harder to get pregnant while you are using this medicine.
If you are pregnant, you should not take diclofenac topical unless your doctor tells you to. Taking an NSAID during the last 20 weeks of pregnancy can cause serious heart or kidney problems in the unborn baby and possible complications with your pregnancy.
It may not be safe to breastfeed while using this medicine. Ask your doctor about any risk.
Related/similar drugs
How should I use diclofenac topical?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides. Use the lowest dose that is effective in treating your condition.
Do not take by mouth. Topical medicine is for use only on the skin. Rinse with water if this medicine gets in your eyes or mouth.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions.
Do not apply diclofenac topical to an open skin wound, or on areas of infection, rash, burn, or peeling skin.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Apply the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not apply two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while using diclofenac topical?
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using other medicines for pain, fever, swelling, or cold/flu symptoms. They may contain ingredients similar to diclofenac (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, or naproxen).
Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase your risk of stomach bleeding.
Avoid exposing treated skin to heat, sunlight, or tanning beds. Heat can increase the amount of diclofenac you absorb through your skin.
Avoid getting diclofenac topical in your eyes. If contact does occur, rinse with water. Call your doctor if you have eye irritation that lasts longer than 1 hour.
Do not use cosmetics, sunscreen, lotions, insect repellant, or other medicated skin products on the same area you treat with diclofenac topical.
Diclofenac topical side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (hives, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, wheezing or trouble breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling).
Stop using diclofenac and seek medical treatment if you have a serious drug reaction that can affect many parts of your body. Symptoms may include skin rash, fever, swollen glands, muscle aches, severe weakness, unusual bruising, or yellowing of your skin or eyes.
Stop using diclofenac and seek emergency medical attention if you have signs of a heart attack or stroke: chest pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder, sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, feeling short of breath.
Also call your doctor at once if you have:
- a skin rash, no matter how mild;
- swelling, rapid weight gain;
- severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears;
- little or no urination;
- liver problems–nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain (upper right side), tiredness, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
- low red blood cells (anemia)–pale skin, unusual tiredness, feeling light-headed or short of breath, cold hands and feet; or
- signs of stomach bleeding–bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
Common side effects of diclofenac topical may include:
- heartburn, gas, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting;
- diarrhea, constipation;
- headache, dizziness, drowsiness;
- stuffy nose;
- itching, increased sweating;
- increased blood pressure; or
- skin redness, itching, dryness, scaling, or peeling where the medicine was applied.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect diclofenac topical?
Ask your doctor before using diclofenac if you take an antidepressant. Taking certain antidepressants with an NSAID may cause you to bruise or bleed easily.
Tell your doctor about all your current medicines, especially:
- cyclosporine;
- lithium;
- methotrexate;
- a blood thinner (warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven);
- heart or blood pressure medication, including a diuretic or “water pill”; or
- steroid medicine (prednisone and others).
This list is not complete and many other drugs may affect diclofenac. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.
Where can I get more information?
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
More about diclofenac topical
- Check interactions
- Pricing & coupons
- Reviews (463)
- Latest FDA alerts (2)
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatories
- Breastfeeding
Patient resources
- Drug Information
- Diclofenac Topical (Advanced Reading)
- Diclofenac Cream
- Diclofenac Gel (1%)
- Diclofenac Gel (3%)
Other brands
Professional resources
Related treatment guides
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 12.01.
Diclofenac Sodium Gel Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (NSAID), Topical – Uses, Side Effects, and More
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including diclofenac) may rarely increase the risk for a heart attack or stroke. This effect can happen at any time while using this drug but is more likely if you use it for a long time. The risk may be greater in older adults or if you have heart disease or increased risk for heart disease (for example, due to smoking, family history of heart disease, or conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes). Do not use this drug right before or after heart bypass surgery (CABG).
Stop using diclofenac and get medical help right away if you notice any of these rare but serious side effects: chest/jaw/left arm pain, shortness of breath, unusual sweating, confusion, weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, sudden vision changes.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the benefits and risks of using this drug.
Warnings:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including diclofenac) may rarely increase the risk for a heart attack or stroke. This effect can happen at any time while using this drug but is more likely if you use it for a long time. The risk may be greater in older adults or if you have heart disease or increased risk for heart disease (for example, due to smoking, family history of heart disease, or conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes). Do not use this drug right before or after heart bypass surgery (CABG).
Stop using diclofenac and get medical help right away if you notice any of these rare but serious side effects: chest/jaw/left arm pain, shortness of breath, unusual sweating, confusion, weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, sudden vision changes.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the benefits and risks of using this drug.
Uses
See also Warning section.This medication is used to treat a certain skin condition (actinic keratoses). Diclofenac is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
How to use Diclofenac Sodium Gel Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (NSAID), Topical
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using diclofenac and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication is for use on the skin only. Wash and dry your hands before applying the medication. Gently apply enough medication to cover the affected skin well as directed by your doctor, usually 2 times daily. This medication is usually applied for 60 to 90 days. Wash your hands after using, unless you are using this medication to treat the hands.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To reduce your risk of side effects, use this medication at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor or pharmacist.
Do not apply the medication in or around the eyes, open skin wounds, or infected/scraped/burned skin. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.
Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens. It may take up to 30 days after finishing the medication for the skin to completely heal.
Side Effects
See also Warning section.
Rash, scaling, dry skin, swelling, or itching may occur at the application site. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine), symptoms of heart failure (such as swelling ankles/feet, unusual tiredness, unusual/sudden weight gain).
Other medications similar to this medication may rarely cause serious bleeding from the stomach or intestines. If you notice any of the following rare but very serious side effects, stop using this medication and get medical help right away: black/bloody stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, persistent stomach/abdominal pain.
This drug may rarely cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. Get medical help right away if you have any symptoms of liver damage, including: persistent nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: fever, swollen lymph nodes, rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
See also Warning section.
Before using diclofenac, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to aspirin or other NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as benzyl alcohol), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: asthma, aspirin-sensitive asthma (a history of worsening breathing with runny/stuffy nose after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs), liver disease, stomach/intestine problems (such as bleeding, ulcers), heart disease (such as previous heart attack), high blood pressure, stroke, swelling (edema, fluid retention), diabetes, blood disorders (such as anemia), bleeding/clotting problems, growths in the nose (nasal polyps).
Kidney problems can sometimes occur with the use of NSAID medications, including diclofenac. Problems are more likely to occur if you are dehydrated, have heart failure or kidney disease, are an older adult, or if you take certain medications (see also Drug Interactions section). Drink plenty of fluids as directed by your doctor to prevent dehydration and tell your doctor right away if you have a change in the amount of urine.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
This medicine may rarely cause stomach bleeding. Daily use of alcohol and tobacco while using this medicine may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Limit alcohol and stop smoking. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about how much alcohol you may safely drink.
Your condition may get worse when exposed to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Wear protective clothing when outdoors. Ask your doctor if you should use sunscreen along with this medication.
Older adults may be at greater risk for stomach/intestinal bleeding, kidney problems, heart attack, and stroke while using this drug.
Before using this medication, women of childbearing age should talk with their doctor(s) about the benefits and risks. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or if you plan to become pregnant. This medication may harm an unborn baby and cause problems with normal labor/delivery. It is not recommended for use in pregnancy from 20 weeks until delivery. If your doctor decides that you need to use this medication between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy, you should use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. You should not use this medication after 30 weeks of pregnancy.
It is unknown if this form of diclofenac passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
