Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

DICLOFENAC - TOPICAL

(dye-KLO-fen-ack)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Solaraze

Uses

Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is used topically to treat a skin condition called actinic keratoses (AK).

How To Use

Apply this medication topically to the affected skin lesions usually twice daily or as directed by your doctor. Use enough of the medication to thoroughly cover and rub into the skin lesion(s) being treated. Wash your hands immediately after using this medicine unless your hands are part of the area being treated. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes. Do not apply this medication to open wounds, infections, or damaged skin. Do not bandage, wrap, or cover the treated area unless you are instructed to do so by your doctor. Do not use other skin/topical products (e.g., cosmetics, lotions, sunscreens) on the affected/treated areas because it may decrease the effectiveness of this medication. It may take up to 4 weeks to notice significant improvement of your condition.

Side Effects

Skin irritations (e.g., dryness, redness, itching, or scaling) may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: muscle pain, trouble breathing, swelling, open sores on the skin (ulcers), eye redness or swelling (conjunctivitis). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: stomach pain. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney or liver disease, stomach ulcers/bleeding, open skin wounds/lesions, skin infections, asthma, nasal polyps, any allergies - especially to preservatives such as benzyl alcohol or other aspirin/NSAID medications (e.g., ibuprofen, celecoxib). Your condition and this medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid sun exposure and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. Avoid using this medicine in the late stages of pregnancy (third trimester). It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: oral NSAID medicines (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen), other topical medications (e.g., creams, lotions). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. Symptoms of overdose may include: seizures, stomach pain, trouble breathing.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Protect from heat. Do not freeze.