Diclofenac - Transdermal/Topical

Diclofenac helps relieve pain and reduce inflammation associated with conditions affecting the joints or muscles (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, muscle strain or sprain).

This medicine may also be used to treat actinic keratosis (a condition characterised by formation of patches on the skin due to sun exposure).

Use this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not use more or less than instructed by your doctor.

Diclofenac transdermal is available as a plaster or patch. Diclofenac topical is available as a gel or solution. This medicine is to be applied on the skin. It will be delivered into the body through the skin.

To apply Diclofenac transdermal plaster or patch:

1. Wash and dry your hands.
2. Remove the plaster or patch from its container.
3. Remove the protective strip and apply the sticky side of the plaster or patch to a clean, dry and intact skin of the affected area.
4. Firmly press the plaster or patch onto the skin with your palm.
5. Hold for about 10 seconds to ensure the plaster or patch sticks well to the skin.

The plaster or patch should not be worn while bathing.

To apply Diclofenac topical gel:

1. Wash and dry your hands.
2. Squeeze out the specified amount of gel from the container.
3. Apply to a clean, dry and intact skin of the affected area.
4. Allow the gel to dry.
5. Wash and dry your hands after each application.

To apply Diclofenac topical solution:

1. Wash and dry your hands.
2. If needed, prime the pump first by fully pressing its head down 4 times. After priming, the pump is now ready to use.
3. Hold the pump in one hand and place your other hand under the spout to collect the solution.
4. Press the pump firmly and fully. Apply to a clean, dry and intact skin of the affected area.
5. Allow it to dry.
6. Wash and dry your hands after each application.

Avoid any contact of this medicine with your eyes. Rinse it immediately with water if the medicine gets into your eyes. Alert your doctor if you start to have any problems with your eyesight.

Do not bandage, cover or wrap the affected area after applying Diclofenac unless instructed by the doctor.

Avoid excessive exposure of affected area to sunlight.

Do not switch between different brands or dosage forms unless advised by your doctor.

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.

Do not use more than what is instructed by your doctor to make up for the missed dose.

Do not use Diclofenac if you ever had an allergic reaction (rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to Diclofenac or any similar pain reliever such as aspirin or ibuprofen.

Alert your doctor if you are to undergo a coronary artery bypass graft surgery (procedure to restore and improve the blood flow in the heart).

Do not use Diclofenac if you are on the 3rd trimester of pregnancy. This medicine may cause harm to your unborn child.

Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:

• active, history of stomach or bowel ulcer
• active, history of stomach or bowel bleeding
• heart and/or blood vessel disease or its risk factors e.g. high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol level, diabetes
• asthma
• liver disease
• kidney disease

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Diclofenac may cause drowsiness, dizziness or some problems with your eyesight. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert or need to see clearly.

Other side effects include any of the following: application site reactions such as rashes, itchiness or dryness of the skin.

If you develop rashes, breathlessness, swollen mouth or eyes, stop using Diclofenac and inform your doctor quickly. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.

Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:

• medicines for pain or inflammation e.g. aspirin, ibuprofen
• blood-thinning medicine e.g. warfarin

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. Protect from heat.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.