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Diclofenac Sodium

DICLOFENAC

Manufacturer: Asclemed USA, Inc.

Score: 145.0

Quick Summary

Diclofenac sodium topical solution is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for the treatment of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee(s). The recommended dose is 40 drops per knee, 4 times a day. It has several safety considerations, including an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events and gastrointestinal bleeding. The drug is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity, asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions, and in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

Key Clinical Findings and Indications

  • Treatment of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee(s)
  • Relief of pain and inflammation

Important Safety Information

Warning

Increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events and gastrointestinal bleeding

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to diclofenac or any components of the drug product
  • History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions
  • Setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery

Adverse Reactions

  • Application site skin reactions (dryness, erythema, induration, vesicles, paresthesia, pruritus, vasodilation, acne, urticaria)
  • Gastrointestinal events (nausea, dyspepsia, diarrhea, abdominal pain)
  • Cardiovascular events (palpitation, cardiovascular disorder)

Dosing Recommendations

General Guidance

No dose adjustments recommended

Osteoarthritis of the knee(s)

Adult Dose

40 drops per knee, 4 times a day

Pediatric Dose

Not established

Special Population Considerations

Pregnancy

  • Use during pregnancy only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to fetus
  • Avoid use starting at 30 weeks gestation

Nursing Mothers

  • Use with caution in nursing mothers

Pediatric Use

  • Safety and effectiveness not established in pediatric patients

Geriatric Use

  • Elderly patients at greater risk for NSAID-associated adverse reactions
  • Start dosing at low end of dosing range and monitor for adverse effects