Diclofenac

What it is used for

Diclofenac sodium topical gel can be used for the temporary relief of arthritis pain in the hands, wrists, elbows, feet, ankles, and knees. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. It mainly affects a type of tissue called cartilage, which cushions the joints and prevents the bones from rubbing against each other.

With OA, cartilage begins to break down and wear away, resulting in joint pain and stiffness. OA occurs more frequently as you get older. Pain develops slowly and can gradually worsen over time.

Storing it

• Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F).
• Do not freeze diclofenac sodium topical gel.
• Store the dosing card with your diclofenac sodium topical gel.
• Keep out of the reach of children.

Additional Questions?

Call the diclofenac sodium topical gel consumer hotline at 1-877-835-5472. www.amneal.com

Distributed by: Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC Bridgewater, NJ 08807

Rev. 12-2021-01

How quickly will diclofenac sodium topical gel work for arthritis pain?

Diclofenac sodium topical gel may take up to 7 days to work for your arthritis pain; it is not for immediate relief. With 4 times-a-day use, you may start to feel relief within a few days. You should feel significant pain relief within 7 days of continuous use. If no pain relief in 7 days, stop use.

How does diclofenac sodium topical gel work?

Diclofenac sodium, the medicine in diclofenac sodium topical gel, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). NSAIDs are used to treat pain from medical conditions such as arthritis. Diclofenac sodium topical gel works similarly to oral NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen by temporarily blocking the production of pain signaling chemicals called prostaglandins. However, when taking a pill, the medication is distributed to the site of pain through the bloodstream. Compared to oral diclofenac, only 6% of the medicine in diclofenac sodium topical gel is absorbed in the bloodstream. It works by penetrating through your skin at the application site to deliver arthritis pain relief.

How does over-the-counter diclofenac sodium topical gel differ from prescription diclofenac sodium topical gel ?

Over-the-counter diclofenac sodium topical gel is the same strength and formula as original full prescription strength diclofenac sodium topical gel but is available without a prescription.

Can I apply diclofenac sodium topical gel to upper and lower body areas at the same time? Yes.

You can use diclofenac sodium topical gel on up to 2 body areas at the same time. The areas can include foot, ankle, knee, hand, wrist, and elbow.

Some correct examples include:

Do not use diclofenac sodium topical gel on more than 2 body areas at once.

Can I apply diclofenac sodium topical gel without measuring it out on the dosing card first? No.

Use the dosing card to make sure you are getting the correct amount of medicine.

Can I use diclofenac sodium topical gel on my spine, hips, or shoulders? No.

The use of diclofenac sodium topical gel on the spine, hips, and shoulders has not been studied.

Can I take any other pain medications with diclofenac sodium topical gel? Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using diclofenac sodium topical gel if you are already taking any other pain reliever or are planning on taking any other pain reliver, especially prescription or nonprescription NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or others).

Can I take any other pain medications during the first 7 days I use diclofenac sodium topical gel? Taking other pain medications is generally not recommended. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before taking other pain medications when using diclofenac sodium topical gel.

How long can I use diclofenac sodium topical gel?

Use diclofenac sodium topical gel 4 times a day every day for up to 21 days for treatment of arthritis pain or as directed by your doctor.

Diclofenac sodium topical gel should be part of an overall program for managing your arthritis pain. The program should also include activities such as appropriate movement or exercise, specific lifestyle changes, and weight maintenance. Regular visits and discussions with your doctor can help incorporate diclofenac sodium topical gel into a complete program to help manage your arthritis pain.

What do I do if I get diclofenac sodium topical gel in my eyes?

If eye contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water and consult a doctor if irritation lasts more than an hour.

How do I clean the dosing card?

Wash the dosing card with water, and store dosing card and tube out of reach of children.

What if I miss a dose of diclofenac sodium topical gel?

If you forget to apply diclofenac sodium topical gel, don’t double your dose. Just apply the next dose as scheduled.