Drug
Diclofenac
Pronounced
"dye-KLOE-fen-ak"
Uses
This medication is used to treat arthritis of the knee(s). It reduces pain and swelling, and helps improve your ability to move and flex the joint. Diclofenac is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
Warning
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including diclofenac) may rarely increase the risk for a heart attack or stroke. This effect can happen at any time while using this drug but is more likely if you use it for a long time. The risk may be greater in older adults or if you have heart disease or increased risk for heart disease (for example, due to smoking, family history of heart disease, or conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes). Do not use this drug right before or after heart bypass surgery (CABG).
Also, this drug may rarely cause serious (rarely fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. This effect can occur without warning symptoms at any time while using this drug. Older adults may be at higher risk for this effect. (See also Precautions and Drug Interactions sections.)
Stop using diclofenac and get medical help right away if you notice any of the following rare but very serious side effects: stomach/abdominal pain that doesn't go away, black/bloody stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, chest/jaw/left arm pain, shortness of breath, unusual sweating, weakness on one side of the body, sudden vision changes, trouble speaking.
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the risks and benefits of treatment with this medication.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using diclofenac and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Before using the pump for the first time, remove the cap and prime the pump as directed by the manufacturer.
Apply this medication to clean, dry skin as directed by your doctor, usually 2 times a day to the affected knee(s). Press down firmly on the pump head 2 times and place the medication on the palm of your hand. Apply the medication evenly around the front, back, and sides of the knee. Repeat for the other knee if directed to do so by your doctor. Let the medication dry for several minutes. Do not wear clothing over it until the treated knee is completely dry. Also, do not apply sunscreen, insect repellant, lotion, or other topical products on your knee until it is completely dry.
Be sure to wash your hands before and after applying the medication. Avoid getting this medication in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Avoid showering/bathing for at least 30 minutes after application. Do not apply to open wounds or to infected or damaged skin. Do not wrap, bandage, or apply heat (such as a heating pad) on the treated area unless you are instructed to do so by your doctor.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Do not use more, apply it more often, or use it for a longer time than prescribed.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.