Generic
Diclofenac Sodium 1% Topical
25 brands available in the market
At a glance
Diclofenac Sodium 1% Topical is an NSAID gel used for local relief of pain and inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and musculoskeletal pain.
Description
Diclofenac Sodium is a phenylacetic acid derivative and a prototypical NSAID. It inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2, thereby inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. May also inhibit neutrophil aggregation/activation, inhibit chemotaxis, decrease proinflammatory cytokine level, and alter lymphocyte activity.
Indications
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Joint and muscular pains
- Local symptomatic relief of pain and inflammation
Therapeutic class
Drugs for Osteoarthritis, Drugs used for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Pharmacological class
Topical NSAID
Pharmacology
Diclofenac Sodium is a phenylacetic acid derivative and a prototypical NSAID. It inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and COX-2, thereby inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. May also inhibit neutrophil aggregation/activation, inhibit chemotaxis, decrease proinflammatory cytokine level, and alter lymphocyte activity.
Mechanism of action
Diclofenac Sodium inhibits cyclooxygenase, reducing prostaglandin synthesis, thereby reducing local pain and inflammation.
Dosage
Adult (Osteoarthritis): Apply 2 g (upper extremities)/4 g (lower extremities) every 6 hours; not to exceed 8 g/day to any single joint of upper extremities; 16 g/day to any single joint of lower extremities.
Adult (Pain and inflammation): As 1% gel: Apply onto affected area 3 or 4 times daily.
Administration
For external use only. Apply to clean, dry skin. Avoid showering/bathing until gel is dry for at least 30 minutes. Wash hands after use.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next application, skip the missed dose.
Side effects
Common (>10%): Dry skin (25-27%), rash (20-35%), contact dermatitis (19-33%), pain (15-26%), paresthesia (<20%), pruritus (52%), exfoliation (6-24%).
Occasional (1-10%): Hypertension, chest pain, skin ulcer, diarrhea, dyspepsia, alopecia, photosensitivity, edema, conjunctivitis, hematuria, asthma.
Precautions & warnings
Caution in rare instances of peptic ulceration or GI bleeding. Elderly patients should be kept under close observation. Avoid contact with eyes or mucous membranes. Not to be taken by mouth.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to any ingredient; aspirin or other NSAID-induced asthma, urticaria, or acute rhinitis. Should not be used under occlusive airtight dressings.
Drug interactions
Methotrexate: May increase serum levels.
Other NSAIDs and anticoagulants (warfarin): Higher risk of GI bleeding.
Cyclosporin or triamterene: Increased risk of nephrotoxicity.
Colestyramine and colestipol: Reduce bioavailability.
Sucralfate: Decreased plasma concentration.
Lithium and digoxin: May increase serum levels.
Food interactions
Can be used with or without food.
Use in pregnancy
Pregnancy Category C. Avoid use of NSAIDs after 30 weeks of gestation.
Pregnancy Category: C — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Diclofenac is excreted in breast milk in small amounts; use is not recommended during lactation.
Pediatric use
Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Geriatric use
Elderly patients should be kept under close observation.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment; dose adjustment may be needed.
Overdose effects
Treatment of overdose is symptomatic.
Storage conditions
Store below 25°C. Protect from light. Do not freeze.
Chemical structure
Diclofenac Sodium 1% Topical