Diclofenac sodium topical solution
Diclofenac sodium topical solution
What is this medicine?
DICLOFENAC (dye KLOE fen ak) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is used to treat osteoarthritis of the knees.
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is for external use only. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Apply to the clean, dry skin of the knee. Rub around front, back, and sides of the knee. Do not apply to open wounds, infections, swelling, or areas of exfoliative dermatitis. Allow medicine to dry before using any other lotion or medicine on the same place. Do not get this medicine in your mouth or eyes. If this medicine gets in your eye, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water. Protect treatment area from sunlight and sun lamps. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use it more often than directed.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
black or bloody stools, blood in the urine or vomit
blurred vision
chest pain
difficulty breathing or wheezing
nausea or vomiting
redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
slurred speech or weakness on one side of the body
trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine
unexplained weight gain or swelling
unusually weak or tired
yellowing of eyes or skin
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
dizziness
dry skin
headache
increased sensitivity to the sun
stomach upset
tingling at the application
What may interact with this medicine?
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
cidofovir
ketorolac
methotrexate
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
aspirin
cyclosporine
lithium
medicines for blood pressure
medicines that treat or prevent blood clots like warfarin, enoxaparin, and dalteparin
NSAIDs, medicines for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen
other products used on the skin
steroid medicines like prednisone or cortisone
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
asthma
bleeding problems
coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery within the past 2 weeks
heart disease
high blood pressure
if you frequently drink alcohol containing drinks
kidney disease
liver disease
open or infected skin
stomach problems
an unusual or allergic reaction to diclofenac, aspirin, other NSAIDs, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
Do not take medicines such as ibuprofen and naproxen with this medicine. Side effects such as stomach upset, nausea, or ulcers may be more likely to occur. Many medicines available without a prescription should not be taken with this medicine.
This medicine does not prevent heart attack or stroke. In fact, this medicine may increase the chance of a heart attack or stroke. The chance may increase with longer use of this medicine and in people who have heart disease. If you take aspirin to prevent heart attack or stroke, talk with your doctor or health care professional.
This medicine can cause ulcers and bleeding in the stomach and intestines at any time during treatment. Ulcers and bleeding can happen without warning symptoms and can cause death. To reduce your risk, do not smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol while you are taking this medicine.
This medicine can cause you to bleed more easily. Try to avoid damage to your teeth and gums when you brush or floss your teeth.
Updated:  
July 17, 2018