Diclofenac Dosage Per Application
According to the FDA drug label, the recommended dose of topical diclofenac is 40 mg (2 pump actuations) applied to each affected area, typically twice daily. 1
Topical Diclofenac Formulations and Dosing
Diclofenac is available in several topical formulations with specific dosing recommendations:
Topical Solution (1.5%)
- Apply 40 mg (2 pump actuations) directly to the affected area twice daily 1
- Spread evenly around the treatment area
- Allow to dry completely before covering with clothing or applying other products
Diclofenac Gel (3% in 2.5% hyaluronic acid)
- Apply 0.5 g of gel twice daily to the affected area 2
- Used primarily for actinic keratosis treatment
- Treatment duration typically ranges from 60-90 days 3
Diclofenac Topical Solution for Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction
- 16 mg/ml concentration: 10 drops applied 4 times daily 4
Application Instructions
- Apply to clean, dry skin
- Spread evenly over the affected area
- Wash hands thoroughly after application
- Wait until completely dry before covering with clothing
- Avoid skin-to-skin contact with others until the area is completely dry
- Do not apply to open wounds or broken skin
Important Considerations
- Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible 1
- Avoid applying external heat or occlusive dressings to treated areas
- Do not combine with oral NSAIDs unless benefits outweigh risks 1
- Local adverse effects may include dry skin, contact dermatitis, pruritus, and local pain 2
- Topical diclofenac has fewer systemic side effects compared to oral diclofenac 4
Special Populations
For patients with actinic keratosis, the guidelines recommend:
- 3% diclofenac in 2.5% hyaluronic acid gel applied twice daily 3
- Treatment duration of 60-90 days may be required for optimal results
Caution
The British Association of Dermatologists notes that diclofenac gel might be employed for certain conditions (like actinic keratosis below the knee) with the expectation of fewer side effects compared to other treatments, though possibly with less benefit 3. Additionally, guidelines recommend against the use of diclofenac in addition to cryosurgery for actinic keratosis treatment 3.
For patients with cardiovascular disease, caution is advised as NSAIDs including diclofenac have been associated with increased cardiovascular risk 3.