Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Diclofenac topical gel is prescribed for the treatment of actinic keratosis, which refers to flat, scaly growths on the skin resulting from excessive sun exposure. Diclofenac belongs to a class of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The specific mechanism by which diclofenac gel works to treat actinic keratosis is not fully understood.
Uses and Dosage
Topical diclofenac for actinic keratosis is available as a gel meant for application to the skin. It should be applied to the affected area twice a day for a duration of 60 to 90 days. Ensure consistency in application times each day.
Use diclofenac gel precisely as directed, avoiding excess application or more frequent use than prescribed.
Avoid applying diclofenac gel to open skin wounds, burns, infections, or areas with redness, scaliness, or peeling skin.
Remember, diclofenac gel is intended for external use only. Take precautions to prevent contact with your eyes, nose, or mouth. In case of accidental contact, rinse thoroughly with water or saline. If irritation persists after an hour, seek medical attention.
Prior to application, wash your hands thoroughly. Then, using your fingers, gently spread the gel over each affected area, ensuring complete coverage. After application, wash your hands again, taking care not to touch your eyes or nose before doing so.
While you may notice improvement within 30 days of treatment initiation, it may take up to 30 days post-treatment for complete healing or to experience the full benefits of diclofenac gel.
Even if your condition shows improvement, continue using diclofenac gel as prescribed. Do not discontinue its use without consulting your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- redness, itching, peeling or dry skin, irritation, swelling, or rash at the area where you applied the medication
- pain, burning, numbness, or tingling of the treated skin
- muscle, joint, or back pain
- headache
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- hives, rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty swallowing, or hoarseness
- rash or blisters with fever
- unexplained weight gain
- shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- swelling in the arms, hands, ankles, feet, or legs
- excessive tiredness
- pain in the upper right part of the stomach
- nausea
- diarrhea
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- flu-like symptoms
Caution
- Before using diclofenac, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have allergies to it, aspirin, other NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib), or if you have any other allergies. The medication may contain inactive ingredients (such as benzyl alcohol) that can cause allergic reactions or other problems.
- Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have asthma, aspirin-sensitive asthma, liver disease, stomach/intestine problems, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, swelling (edema, fluid retention), diabetes, blood disorders, bleeding/clotting problems, or nasal polyps.
- Kidney problems may occur with the use of NSAID medications, including diclofenac. This risk is higher if you are dehydrated, have heart failure or kidney disease, are an older adult, or take certain medications (refer to the Drug Interactions section). Stay well-hydrated as directed by your doctor and notify them if you experience changes in urine output.
- Diclofenac may rarely cause stomach bleeding. The daily use of alcohol and tobacco while using this medicine may increase the risk of stomach bleeding. It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption and quit smoking. Consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding safe alcohol intake.
- Sun exposure may worsen your condition. Limit your time in the sun, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and wear protective clothing outdoors. Inquire with your doctor about using sunscreen along with this medication.
- Older adults may have a higher risk of stomach/intestinal bleeding, kidney problems, heart attack, and stroke when using this drug.
- For women of childbearing age, discuss with your doctor(s) the benefits and risks of using this medication. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Diclofenac may harm an unborn baby and cause complications during labor and delivery. It is not recommended for use in pregnancy after 20 weeks. If your doctor determines the need for this medication between 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration. Avoid using this medication after 30 weeks of pregnancy.
- The passage of this form of diclofenac into breast milk is unknown. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Solaraze Gel is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Solaraze Gel gel:
- 3 %
FAQ
Can I apply Solaraze Gel to damaged skin?
Don’t apply Solaraze Gel to any open skin wounds, infections, or damaged and peeling skin (exfoliative dermatitis). Applying the gel to these areas of skin can cause you to absorb more medication and might put you at higher risk of side effects.
Can I apply lotion, sunscreen, or makeup over Solaraze Gel?
Applying lotion, sunscreen, or makeup might affect how well your skin absorbs Solaraze Gel. Ask your provider if you can apply these and other skin products with this medication.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/solaraze/what-is#faqs
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/diclofenac-topical-application-route/description/drg-20063434
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-22224/solaraze-topical/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a611041.html
- https://www.drugs.com/pro/solaraze.html
