Diclofenac topical gel
VOLTAREN ARTHRITIS PAIN
Pronunciation: dye-KLOE-fen-ak
“Dick Loaf Voltron”
“The N said... NSAID”
What it isDiclofenac sodium 1% topical gel inhibits COX-1 and COX-2; localized osteoarthritis pain.
Why this oneVOLTAREN (Rx 2007; OTC 2020 as VOLTAREN ARTHRITIS PAIN) delivers diclofenac to superficial joints with less systemic exposure than oral NSAIDs.
What limits itSkin reactions are common; avoid stacking it with oral NSAIDs, and remember cardiovascular and GI boxed warnings still apply.
FDA-approved for
- osteoarthritis pain, topical (2007)
- nonprescription (OTC) status (2020)
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temporary relief of arthritis pain (hand, wrist, elbow, foot, ankle, knee) | Adults (≥18 yr) | upper body 2 g (2.25 in) per area; lower body 4 g (4.5 in) per area | 4 times per day | no more than 2 body areas at same time; use up to 21 days unless directed by doctor |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Use up to 21 days unless directed by a doctor; stop and ask a doctor if pain lasts more than 21 days
Instructions
- For external use only
- Use enclosed dosing card to measure each dose
- Apply 4 times per day; do not use on more than 2 body areas at the same time
- May take up to 7 days to work; if no relief in 7 days, stop use
- Avoid contact with eyes, nose, or mouth
Available strengths
- gel 1 %
Contraindications
- Do not use if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any other pain reliever or fever reducer
- Do not use for strains, sprains, bruises, or sports injuries
- Do not use right before or after heart surgery
- Do not use in the eyes, nose, or mouth
Cautions
- Allergy alert: may cause severe allergic reaction, especially in those allergic to aspirin
- Liver damage warning with excessive/prolonged use
- NSAID stomach bleeding risk (higher if age ≥60, ulcer history, anticoagulant/steroid use, other NSAIDs, ≥3 alcoholic drinks/day)
- Heart attack and stroke risk (NSAIDs except aspirin)
- Not for use under age 18
Adverse reactions
- Skin irritation at application site (stop use and ask a doctor if it occurs)
Pregnancy Especially avoid at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless directed by a doctor (may cause problems in the unborn child or delivery complications)
Lactation If breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use
Cost
| Strength | #/mo | generic $/unit | CostPlus | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 % | gel | per unit | not offered |
Other forms: Diclofenac (VOLTAREN) · Diclofenac oral solution (CAMBIA)
⚠ BOXED WARNINGS
- Cardiovascular thrombotic events
- Gastrointestinal bleeding, ulceration and perforation
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
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