Diclofenac sodium (topical)
Drug Name(s): Pennsaid (prescription), Voltaren Gel (prescription), Voltaren Arthritis Pain (over-the-counter)
Class: NSAIDs
Used to treat osteoarthritis (OA) pain.
Dosage
Forms(s): gel, cream
Voltaren Gel and Voltaren Arthritis Pain
2 g for each elbow, wrist or hand, 4 times a day
4 g for each knee, ankle or foot, 4 times a day
Pennsaid (1.5% or 2%)
40 mg (2 pumps) on each knee 2 times a day
Special Instructions
Apply to clean, dry skin.
Do not apply to open skin wounds or infections. Do not get into your eyes, nose or mouth.
Wash hands completely after applying.
Wait until the area is completely dry before covering with clothing or applying other topical substances, such as sunscreen, insect repellant or lotion.
Avoid showering/bathing for at least 1 hour after application.
Minimize or avoid exposure of treated area(s) to natural or artificial sunlight.
Pennsaid 1.5%: Spread evenly around front, back and sides of the affected area each time.
Pennsaid 2%: Prime the pump of the bottle by pushing down fully 4 times. Discard any solution that comes during the priming process. Then press the pump 2 times completely to get one dose. Spread evenly around front, back and sides of the affected area.
Voltaren Gel and Voltaren Arthritis Pain: Use the dosing card for each application of the product.
Potential Side Effects
Abdominal pain; dry, red or itchy skin; constipation; diarrhea; nausea
Be Aware
Do not use Pennsaid if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Do not use Voltaren Gel or Voltaren Arthritis Pain late in pregnancy.
Before using any type of NSAID, tell your doctor if you drink alcohol or take blood thinners (including warfarin), ACE inhibitors, lithium or furosemide. Also report any sensitivity or allergy to aspirin or similar drugs.
All non-aspirin NSAIDs may cause an increased risk of serious blood clots, heart attack and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk increases with dose and duration of use. Patients who have or who are at risk for cardiovascular disease are at greater risk for these complications.
NSAIDs increase the risk of serious gastroinestinal side effects, including bleeding, ulceration, and gastric or intestinal perforation, which can be fatal.
