Diclofenac 1% gel is an anti-inflammatory pain reliever you rub onto the skin. In the US it’s available without a prescription for arthritis pain. Because it acts where you apply it, much less reaches the bloodstream than with tablets, so stomach side effects are less likely.
What it’s used for
Diclofenac gel is approved over the counter for arthritis pain in the hands, wrists, elbows, knees, ankles and feet. It works best for joints close to the skin. It isn’t meant for the back, hips or shoulders.
How to use it
- Use the dosing card in the pack to measure the right amount: usually 2 g for each upper-body joint (hand, wrist, elbow) and 4 g for each lower-body joint (knee, ankle, foot).
- Apply up to 4 times a day and gently rub it into the whole painful area.
- Don’t use more than 32 g a day in total.
- Wash your hands afterwards, unless you’re treating your hands. In that case wait at least 1 hour before washing them.
- Don’t cover the area with a tight bandage or use a heating pad on it, and don’t shower for an hour after applying.
- It can take up to 7 days to feel the full effect. Don’t use it for more than 21 days without talking to a doctor.
Side effects
The most common are skin reactions where it’s applied: redness, itching, dryness or a rash. Stop using it if your skin blisters or swells. Serious side effects are rare but, as with all NSAIDs, can include stomach bleeding, heart problems and kidney problems.
Who should avoid it or check first
- Don’t use it if you’ve had an allergic reaction or asthma attack after taking aspirin or another NSAID, or right before or after heart surgery.
- Avoid it in the last part of pregnancy, from 20 weeks onwards, unless a doctor advises it.
- Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney or liver disease, a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding, or take blood thinners, diuretics or other pain relievers.
- Don’t use it at the same time as NSAID tablets such as ibuprofen or naproxen without advice.
- Don’t apply it to broken or infected skin, or near the eyes or mouth.
See a doctor if
Pain gets worse or lasts more than 21 days, a joint becomes hot, red and swollen, or you have chest pain, shortness of breath, black stools or weakness on one side of the body.
Shop Diclofenac Gel. Staying active helps joints too: see walking for health and weight loss.
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This article is for general information only and isn’t a substitute for advice from a doctor or pharmacist. Always read the label before using any medicine.
