What is diclofenac gel used for?

Diclofenac is used to treat pain and other symptoms of arthritis of the joints (eg, osteoarthritis), such as inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain. However, this medicine does not cure osteoarthritis and will help you only as long as you continue to use it.

How quickly does diclofenac gel work?

If you’re using diclofenac gel, plasters or patches on your skin, it usually takes 1 to 2 days to work. For arthritis, you may need to use the gel for up to 7 days on the painful joint to feel the full effect. Depending on why you’re taking diclofenac, you may only need to take it for a short time.

What happens if you use too much diclofenac 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.

How many times a day can you use diclofenac gel?

Adults—Apply 2 grams (g) to the affected skin areas four times a day (a total of 8 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.

Is diclofenac gel safe?

Diclofenac topical can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke, even if you don’t have any risk factors. 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.

Is diclofenac gel stronger than ibuprofen gel?

Diclofenac is considered more potent than ibuprofen and needs to be taken two or three times per day. Ibuprofen often needs to be taken in higher doses to treat pain from arthritis.

Does diclofenac gel have side effects?

Topical diclofenac may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: dryness, redness, itching, swelling, pain, hardness, irritation, swelling, scaling, or numbness at application site.

What is the strongest diclofenac gel?

Contains a permeation enhancer to increase penetration of diclofenac through the skin. For patients looking for the relief of pain associated with acute, localized muscle or joint injuries such as sprains, strains or sports injuries.

What is the chemical name of diclofenac gel?

Diclofenac Gel Description. The chemical name is 2- [ (2,6-dichlorophenyl) amino]benzene-acetic acid, monosodium salt. The molecular weight is 318.14. Its molecular formula is C 14 H 10 Cl 2 NNaO 2, and it has the following chemical structure: It contains the active ingredient, diclofenac sodium, in an opaque, white gel base.

Is diclofenac sodium topical gel safe for hypertension (high blood pressure)?

NSAIDs, including diclofenac sodium topical gel, can lead to new onset of hypertension or worsening of preexisting hypertension, either of which may contribute to the increased incidence of CV events.

How do I measure the proper amount of diclofenac sodium topical gel?

The proper amount of diclofenac sodium topical gel should be measured using the dosing card supplied in the drug product carton. The dosing card is made of clear polypropylene. The dosing card should be used for each application of drug product.

What is diclofenac topical used for?

Diclofenac topical. 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. Pennsaid is for use on the knees. Voltaren Topical is for use on the hands, wrists, elbows, knees, ankles, or feet.