diclofenac diethylamine at a glance
Medicine class
Topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Licensed role
Local symptom relief for mild to moderate pain after acute sprains, strains or bruises caused by blunt injury
Who can use it
Adults and adolescents aged 14 years and over
Where to apply
Intact skin over the painful area; avoid wounds, infected or inflamed skin, eczema, eyes and mucous membranes
What is diclofenac diethylamine used for?
The selected product is licensed for local symptomatic treatment in adults and adolescents aged 14 years and over.
Mild to moderate pain after an acute strain
Mild to moderate pain after an acute sprain
Mild to moderate pain after a bruise or contusion caused by blunt trauma
How does diclofenac diethylamine work?
Diclofenac inhibits cyclo-oxygenase activity, reducing production of prostaglandins involved in pain and inflammation. Applying it to the skin concentrates its action around the treated area and produces much lower systemic exposure than oral diclofenac.
diclofenac diethylamine preparations and strengths
Gel
Route: Cutaneous
Strengths: 1.16%, 2.32%, 2.32% w/w
How to take diclofenac diethylamine
Follow the product leaflet. Apply the gel only to intact skin over the affected area and rub it in gently.
Wipe excess gel from your hands with a paper towel, dispose of it with household waste, then wash your hands unless they are being treated.
Keep the gel away from the eyes, mouth and other mucous membranes. Do not swallow it.
Allow the gel to dry before applying a breathable bandage. Do not use an airtight dressing.
Avoid direct sunlight and artificial ultraviolet light on treated skin as directed in the leaflet.
Keep away from smoking and naked flames. Fabric that contacts the gel can burn more easily.
diclofenac diethylamine side effects
Common or expected effects
- Inflamed or irritated skin, including contact dermatitis
- Rash or redness at the application site
- Eczema
- Itching
Get urgent medical advice
- Sudden swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, wheezing or breathing difficulty
- A blistering, peeling or widespread skin reaction
- An asthma attack or marked worsening of breathing
- Symptoms suggesting systemic harm, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, which are unusual with topical use but require urgent assessment
diclofenac diethylamine in pregnancy
Diclofenac is not usually recommended during pregnancy without prescriber advice. The selected gel is contraindicated during the third trimester. Earlier in pregnancy, it should be considered only when a clinician decides it is clearly necessary. Advice is particularly important from 20 weeks because NSAIDs can affect fetal circulation and kidney function or reduce amniotic fluid.
diclofenac diethylamine while breastfeeding
Topical diclofenac can be used during breastfeeding when clinically appropriate, but the selected product advises healthcare-professional guidance. Do not apply it to the breasts, prevent the infant from touching treated skin and wash your hands before handling the baby.
diclofenac diethylamine interactions
Interactions are unlikely when the gel is used as intended because systemic absorption is low. A pharmacist or prescriber should still review medicines that interact with diclofenac, particularly if systemic exposure may be increased.
Other NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin used for pain
Combining NSAIDs can increase gastrointestinal and other NSAID adverse effects; check before using them together.
Anticoagulants such as warfarin
Diclofenac may add to bleeding risk, although this is less likely with limited topical use.
Common questions about diclofenac diethylamine
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
What is diclofenac diethylamine gel used for?
The selected product is used for local relief of mild to moderate pain after acute sprains, strains and bruises caused by blunt injury.
Can children use diclofenac diethylamine gel?
The selected product is licensed from age 14 and is contraindicated below that age.
Can it go on broken skin?
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.