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Diclofenac Sodium

Prescription ANDA TE AT Official labelling
Informational index, not medical advice. Content is reproduced from public FDA and NLM data. Always confirm against the manufacturer's current prescribing information. Report adverse events to FDA MedWatch.

Overview

Brand name
Diclofenac Sodium
Generic name
Diclofenac Sodium
Dosage form
Solution
Route
Topical
Marketing category
ANDA · ANDA
Labeler
Proficient Rx LP
Product type
Human Prescription Drug
DEA schedule
Not scheduled
Active ingredients
3
NDC product codes
60
Packages
62
Data completeness
83% of corroborating sources present

Active ingredients

Source: NDC Directory
Active ingredients and strengths as listed in the NDC Directory.
Ingredient Strength RxCUI Monograph
Diclofenac Sodium 1 mg/mL 855633 View
Diclofenac Sodium 16.05 mg/mL 855633 View
Diclofenac Sodium 20 mg/g 855633 View

Forms, strengths and routes

Source: NDC Directory
Dosage form
Solution
Route of administration
Topical
Presentations
122

Pharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.

Pharmacologic class

Source: NDC Directory
Established pharmacologic classes (EPC), mechanisms of action (MoA), chemical structures (CS) and physiologic effects (PE).
Class Type Browse
Anti-Inflammatory Agents EPC All 251 members
Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors [MoA] MoA All 251 members
Decreased Prostaglandin Production [PE] PE All 54 members
Non-Steroidal [CS] CS All 251 members
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug [EPC] EPC All 251 members

Regulatory status

Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory
Application number
206116
Application type
ANDA · Abbreviated New Drug Application
Approval date
September 2, 2016
Sponsor
AMNEAL PHARMS
Products on application
1
Submissions recorded
3
Products approved under application 206116.
Product Trade name Form Strength Ingredient Status TE Flags
206116-001 DICLOFENAC SODIUM SOLUTION DICLOFENAC SODIUM Prescription AT

Therapeutic equivalence

Source: Orange Book
TE code
AT
Reference Listed Drug
No
Reference Standard
No

What this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated (topical dermatological products)

Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.

Approval history

Source: Drugs@FDA
Most recent submissions on application 206116.
Type No. Action Status Date Review
Supplement 11 Labeling Approved November 21, 2024 Standard
Supplement 7 Labeling Approved April 29, 2021 Standard
Original application 1 Approved September 2, 2016 Standard

Prescribing information

Source: openFDA Drug Labeling

Reproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260317). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.

HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20260317 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20260209 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20260113 HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · 20250721

Boxed Warning

openFDA Drug Labeling

WARNING: RISK OF SERIOUS CARDIOVASCULAR AND GASTROINTESTINAL EVENTS WARNING: RISK OF SERIOUS CARDIOVASCULAR AND GASTROINTESTINAL EVENTS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may occur early in treatment and may increase with duration of use. ( 5.1 ) Diclofenac Sodium is contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. ( 4 , 5.1 ) NSAIDs, cause an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms. Elderly patients and patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and or GI bleeding are at greater risk for serious GI events. ( 5.2 ) Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may occur early in treatment and may increase with duration of use and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may occur early in treatment and may increase with duration of use [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Diclofenac sodium topical solution is contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Ulceration, and Perforation NSAIDs cause an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms. Elderly patients and patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and or GI bleeding are at greater risk for serious GI events [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] .

Recent Major Changes

openFDA Drug Labeling

RECENT MAJOR CHANGES Boxed Warning 5/2016 Warnings and Precautions, Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events ( 5.1 ) 5/2016 Warnings and Precautions, Heart Failure and Edema ( 5.5 ) 5/2016

Indications and Usage

openFDA Drug Labeling

1. INDICATIONS AND USAGE Diclofenac sodium topical solution is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) indicated for the treatment of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee(s). Diclofenac sodium topical solution is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) indicated for the treatment of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee(s). ( 1 )

Dosage and Administration

openFDA Drug Labeling

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals. The recommended dose is 2 pump actuations on each painful knee, 2 times a day. ( 2 ) • Apply diclofenac sodium topical solution, to clean, dry skin. ( 2.1 ) • Dispense 40 mg (2 pump actuations) directly onto the knee or first into the hand and then onto the knee. Spread evenly around front, back and sides of the knee. ( 2.1 ) • Wash hands completely after administering the product. ( 2.2 ) • Wait until the area is completely dry before covering with clothing or applying sunscreen, insect repellent, cosmetics, topical medications, or other substances. ( 2.2 ) • Until the treated knee(s) is completely dry, avoid skin-to-skin contact between other people and the treated knee(s). ( 2.2 ) • Do not get diclofenac sodium topical solution in your eyes, nose, or mouth ( 2.2 ). 2.1 General Dosing Instructions Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) ]. For relief of the pain of osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee(s), the recommended dose is 40 mg of diclofenac sodium (2 pump actuations) on each painful knee, 2 times a day. Apply diclofenac sodium topical solution to clean, dry skin. The pump must be primed before first use. Instruct patients to fully depress the pump mechanism (actuation) 4 times while holding the bottle in an upright position. This portion should be discarded to ensure proper priming of the pump. No further priming of the bottle should be required. After the priming procedure, diclofenac sodium topical solution is properly dispensed by completely depressing the pump 2 times to achieve the prescribed dosage for one knee. Deliver the product directly into the palm of the hand and then apply evenly around front, back, and sides of the knee. Application of diclofenac sodium topical solution in an amount exceeding or less than the recommended dose has not been studied and is therefore not recommended. 2.2 Special Precautions • Avoid showering/bathing for at least 30 minutes after the application of diclofenac sodium topical solution to the treated knee. • Wash and dry hands after use. • Do not apply diclofenac sodium topical solution to open wounds. • Avoid contact of diclofenac sodium topical solution with eyes and mucous membranes. • Do not apply external heat and/or occlusive dressings to treated knees. • Avoid wearing clothing over the diclofenac sodium topical solution-treated knee(s) until the treated knee is dry. • Protect the treated knee(s) from natural and artificial sunlight. • Wait until the treated area is dry before applying sunscreen, insect repellant, lotion, moisturizer, cosmetics, or other topical medication to the same knee you have just treated with diclofenac sodium topical solution. • Until the treated knee(s) is completely dry, avoid skin-to-skin contact between other people and the treated knee(s). • Do not use combination therapy with diclofenac sodium topical solution and an oral NSAID unless the benefit outweighs the risk and conduct periodic laboratory evaluations.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

openFDA Drug Labeling

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Diclofenac sodium topical solution, USP: 1.5% w/w Diclofenac sodium topical solution, USP 1.5% w/w ( 3 )

Contraindications

openFDA Drug Labeling

4. CONTRAINDICATIONS Diclofenac sodium topical solution is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to diclofenac sodium or any other component of diclofenac sodium topical solution. Diclofenac sodium topical solution is contraindicated in patients who have experienced asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Severe, rarely fatal, anaphylactic-like reactions to NSAIDs have been reported in such patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7 , 5.10) ]. Diclofenac sodium topical solution is contraindicated in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Known hypersensitivity to diclofenac sodium. ( 4 ) History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. ( 4 ) Use in the perioperative period of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. ( 4 )

Warnings and Cautions

openFDA Drug Labeling

5.1 Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events Clinical trials of several COX-2 selective and nonselective NSAIDs of up to three years duration have shown an increased risk of serious cardiovascular (CV) thrombotic events, including myocardial infarction (MI) and stroke, which can be fatal. Based on available data, it is unclear that the risk for CV thrombotic events is similar for all NSAIDs. The relative increase in serious CV thrombotic events over baseline conferred by NSAID use appears to be similar in those with and without known CV disease or risk factors for CV disease. However, patients with known CV disease or risk factors had a higher absolute incidence of excess serious CV thrombotic events, due to their increased baseline rate. Some observational studies found that this increased risk of serious CV thrombotic events began as early as the first weeks of treatment. The increase in CV thrombotic risk has been observed most consistently at higher doses. To minimize the potential risk for an adverse CV event in NSAID-treated patients, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration possible. Physicians and patients should remain alert for the development of such events, throughout the entire treatment course, even in the absence of previous CV symptoms. Patients should be informed about the symptoms of serious CV events and the steps to take if they occur. There is no consistent evidence that concurrent use of aspirin mitigates the increased risk of serious CV thrombotic events associated with NSAID use. The concurrent use of aspirin and an NSAID, such as diclofenac, increases the risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) events [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS (5.2)]. Status Post Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery Two large, controlled, clinical trials of a COX-2 selective NSAID for the treatment of pain in the first 10 to 14 days following CABG surgery found an increased incidence of myocardial infarction and stroke [see CONTRAINDICATIONS (4)]. Post-MI Patients Observational studies conducted in the Danish National Registry have demonstrated that patients treated with NSAIDs in the post-MI period were at increased risk of reinfarction, CV-related death, and all-cause mortality beginning in the first week of treatment. In this same cohort, the incidence of death in the first year post-MI was 20 per 100 person years in NSAIDtreated patients compared to 12 per 100 person years in non-NSAID exposed patients. Although the absolute rate of death declined somewhat after the first year post-MI, the increased relative risk of death in NSAID users persisted over at least the next four years of follow-up. Avoid the use of diclofenac sodium in patients with a recent MI unless the benefits are expected to outweigh the risk of recurrent CV thrombotic events. If diclofenac sodium is used in patients with a recent MI, monitor patients for signs of cardiac ischemia. 5.2 Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Ulceration and Perforation NSAIDs, including diclofenac, cause serious gastrointestinal (GI) adverse events including inflammation, bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine, which can be fatal. These serious adverse events can occur at any time, with or without warning symptoms, in patients treated with NSAIDs. Only one in five patients who develop a serious upper GI adverse event on NSAID therapy is symptomatic. Upper GI ulcers, gross bleeding, or perforation caused by NSAIDs occurred in approximately 1% of patients treated for 3 to 6 months, and in about 2 % to 4% of patients treated for one year. However, even short-term NSAID therapy is not without risk. Risk Factors for GI Bleeding, Ulceration, and Perforation Patients with a prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding who used NSAIDs had a greater than 10-fold increased risk for developing a GI bleed compared to patients without these risk factors. Other factors that increase the risk of GI bleeding in patients tr …

WARNINGS The refractive stability of patients undergoing corneal refractive procedures and treated with diclofenac sodium ophthalmic solution has not been established. Patients should be monitored for a year following use in this setting. With some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, there exists the potential for increased bleeding time due to interference with thrombocyte aggregation. There have been reports that ocularly applied non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may cause increased bleeding of ocular tissues (including hyphemas) in conjunction with ocular surgery. There is the potential for cross-sensitivity to acetylsalicylic acid, phenylacetic acid derivatives, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents. Therefore, caution should be used when treating individuals who have previously exhibited sensitivities to these drugs.

Adverse Reactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Cardiovascular Thrombotic Events [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) ] GI Bleeding, Ulceration and Perforation [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) ] Hepatotoxicity [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ) ] Hypertension [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 ) ] Heart Failure and Edema [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 ) ] Renal Toxicity and Hyperkalemia [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 ) ] Anaphylactic Reactions [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 ) ] Serious Skin Reactions [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 ) ] Hematologic Toxicity [See Warnings and Precautions( 5.12 )] The most common adverse reactions with diclofenac sodium topical solution are application site reactions. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact AvKARE at 1-855-361-3993 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. Diclofenac sodium topical solution The data described below reflect exposure to diclofenac sodium topical solution of 130 patients treated for 4 weeks (mean duration of 28 days) in one Phase 2 controlled trial. This population's mean age was approximately 60 years, 85% of patients were Caucasian, 65% were females, and all patients had primary osteoarthritis. The most common adverse events with diclofenac sodium topical solution were application site skin reactions. These events were the most common reason for withdrawing from the study. Application Site Reactions: In this controlled trial, application site reactions were characterized by one or more of the following: dryness (22%), exfoliation (7%), erythema (4%), pruritus (2%), pain (2%), induration (2%), rash (2%), and scabbing (1% of patients receiving diclofenac sodium topical solution, where the rate in the diclofenac sodium topical solution group exceeded vehicle, from a controlled study conducted in patients with osteoarthritis. Table 1: Incidence of Adverse Reactions Occurring in >1% of Subjects with Osteoarthritis Using Diclofenac Sodium Topical Solution and More Often than in Subjects with OA Using Vehicle Control (Pooled) Adverse Reaction Diclofenac Sodium Topical Solution N=130 n (%) Vehicle Control N=129 n (%) Urinary tract infection 4 (3%) 1 (<1%) Application site induration 2 (2%) 1 (<1%) Contusion 2 (2%) 1 (<1%) Sinus congestion 2 (2%) 1 (<1%) Nausea 2 (2%) 0 Diclofenac Sodium Topical Solution 1.5% The safety of diclofenac sodium topical solution 2% is based in part, on prior experience with diclofenac sodium topical solution 1.5%. The data described below reflect exposure to diclofenac sodium topical solution 1.5% of 911 patients treated between 4 and 12 weeks (mean duration of 49 days) in seven Phase 3 controlled trials, as well as exposure of 793 patients treated in an open-label study, including 463 patients treated for at least 6 months, and 144 patients treated for at least 12 months. The population mean age was approximately 60 years, 89% of patients were Caucasian, 64% were females, and all patients had primary osteoarthritis. The most common adverse events with diclofenac sodium topical solution 1.5% were application site skin reactions. These events were the most common reason for withdrawing from the studies. Application Site Reactions: In controlled trials, application site reactions were characterized by one or more of the following: dryness, erythema, induration, vesicles, paresthesia, pruritus, vasodilation, acne, and urticaria. The most frequent of these reactions were dry skin (32%), contact dermatitis characterized by skin erythema and induration (9%), contact dermatitis with vesicles (2%) and pruritus (4%). In one controlled …

Drug Interactions

openFDA Drug Labeling

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS See Table 3 for clinically significant drug interactions with diclofenac. Table 3: Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with Diclofenac Drugs That Interfere with Hemostasis Clinical Impact: • Diclofenac and anticoagulants such as warfarin have a synergistic effect on bleeding. The concomitant use of diclofenac and anticoagulants have increased the risk of serious bleeding compared to the use of either drug alone. • Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Case-control and cohort epidemiological studies showed that concomitant use of drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and an NSAID may potentiate the risk of bleeding more than an NSAID alone. Intervention: Monitor patients with concomitant use of diclofenac sodium topical solution with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) for signs of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12 )] Aspirin Clinical Impact: Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] Intervention: Concomitant use of diclofenac sodium topical solution and analgesic doses of aspirin is not generally recommended because of the increased risk of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12 )] . Diclofenac sodium topical solution is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection. ACE Inhibitors, Angiotensin Receptor Blockers, and Beta-Blockers Clinical Impact: • NSAIDs may diminish the antihypertensive effect of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), or beta-blockers (including propranolol). • In patients who are elderly, volume-depleted (including those on diuretic therapy), or have renal impairment, co-administration of an NSAID with ACE inhibitors or ARBs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure. These effects are usually reversible. Intervention : • During concomitant use of diclofenac sodium topical solution and ACE-inhibitors, ARBs, or beta-blockers, monitor blood pressure to ensure that the desired blood pressure is obtained. • During concomitant use of diclofenac sodium topical solution and ACE-inhibitors or ARBs in patients who are elderly, volume-depleted, or have impaired renal function, monitor for signs of worsening renal function [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6 )] . • When these drugs are administered concomitantly, patients should be adequately hydrated. Assess renal function at the beginning of the concomitant treatment and periodically thereafter. Diuretics Clinical Impact: Clinical studies, as well as post-marketing observations, showed that NSAIDs reduced the natriuretic effect of loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide) and thiazide diuretics in some patients. This effect has been attributed to the NSAID inhibition of renal prostaglandin synthesis. Intervention : During concomitant use of diclofenac sodium topical solution with diuretics, observe patients for signs of worsening renal function, in addition to assuring diuretic efficacy including antihypertensive effects [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] . Digoxin Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of diclofenac with digoxin has been reported to increase the serum concentration and prolong the half-life of digoxin. Intervention : During concomitant use of diclofenac sodium topical solution and digoxin, monitor serum digoxin levels. Lithium Clinical Impact: NSAIDs have produced elevations in plasma lithium levels and reductions in renal lithium clearance. The mean minimum lithium concent …

Use in Specific Populations

openFDA Drug Labeling

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Infertility: NSAIDs are associated with reversible infertility. Consider withdrawal of diclofenac sodium topical solution in women who have difficulties conceiving. ( 8.3 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Use of NSAIDs, including diclofenac sodium topical solution, can cause premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus and fetal renal dysfunction leading to oligohydramnios and, in some cases, neonatal renal impairment. Because of these risks, limit dose and duration of diclofenac sodium topical solution use between about 20 and 30 weeks of gestation, and avoid diclofenac sodium topical solution use at about 30 weeks of gestation and later in pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations, Data) . Premature Closure of Fetal Ductus Arteriosus Use of NSAIDs, including diclofenac sodium topical solution, at about 30 weeks gestation or later in pregnancy increases the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus. Oligohydramnios/Neonatal Renal Impairment Use of NSAIDs at about 20 weeks gestation or later in pregnancy has been associated with cases of fetal renal dysfunction leading to oligohydramnios, and in some cases, neonatal renal impairment. Data from observational studies regarding other potential embryofetal risks of NSAID use in women in the first or second trimesters of pregnancy are inconclusive. In animal reproduction studies, no evidence of malformations were observed in mice, rats, or rabbits given diclofenac during the period of organogenesis at doses up to approximately 0.6, 0.6, and 1.3 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 162 mg diclofenac sodium via diclofenac sodium topical solution, despite the presence of maternal and fetal toxicity at these doses [see Data] . Based on animal data, prostaglandins have been shown to have an important role in endometrial vascular permeability, blastocyst implantation, and decidualization. In animal studies, administration of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors such as diclofenac, resulted in increased pre- and post-implantation loss. Prostaglandins also have been shown to have an important role in fetal kidney development. In published animal studies, prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors have been reported to impair kidney development when administered at clinically relevant doses. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population(s) is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions Premature Closure of the Fetal Ductus Arteriosus: Avoid use of NSAIDs in women at about 30 weeks gestation and later in pregnancy, because NSAIDs, including diclofenac sodium topical solution, can cause premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus (see Data) . Oligohydramnios/Neonatal Renal Impairment: If an NSAID is necessary at about 20 weeks gestation or later in pregnancy, limit the use to the lowest effective dose and shortest duration possible. If diclofenac sodium topical solution treatment extends beyond 48 hours, consider monitoring with ultrasound for oligohydramnios. If oligohydramnios occurs, discontinue diclofenac sodium topical solution and follow up according to clinical practice (see Data) . Labor or Delivery There are no studies on the effects of diclofenac sodium topical solution during labor or delivery. In animal studies, NSAIDs, including diclofenac inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, cause delayed parturition, and increase the incidence of stillbirth. Data Human Data Premature Closure of Fetal Ductus Arteriosus: Published literature reports that the use of NSAIDs at about 30 weeks of gestation and later in pregnancy may cause premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus. Oligohydramnios/ …

Mechanism of Action

openFDA Drug Labeling

12.1 Mechanism of Action Diclofenac has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. The mechanism of action of diclofenac sodium topical solution, like that of other NSAIDs, is not completely understood but involves inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2). Diclofenac is a potent inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis in vitro . Diclofenac concentrations reached during therapy have produced in vivo effects. Prostaglandins sensitize afferent nerves and potentiate the action of bradykinin in inducing pain in animal models. Prostaglandins are mediators of inflammation. Because diclofenac is an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, its mode of action may be due to a decrease of prostaglandins in peripheral tissues.

Description

openFDA Drug Labeling

DESCRIPTION Diclofenac sodium ophthalmic solution, 0.1% is a sterile, topical, nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory product for ophthalmic use. Diclofenac sodium is designated chemically as 2-[(2,6 dichlorophenyl) amino] benzeneacetic acid, monosodium salt, with an empirical formula of C 14 H 10 C l2 NO 2 Na. The structural formula of diclofenac sodium is: Diclofenac sodium ophthalmic solution is available as a sterile solution, which contains diclofenac sodium 0.1%(1mg/mL). Inactive Ingredients: polyoxyl 35 castor oil, Boric acid, tromethamine, sorbic acid (2 mg/mL), edetate disodium (1 mg/mL), and purified water. Diclofenac sodium is a faintly yellow-white to light beige, slightly hygroscopic crystalline powder. It is freely soluble in methanol, sparingly soluble in water, very slightly soluble in acetonitrile, and insoluble in chloroform and in 0.1N hydrochloric acid. Its molecular weight is 318.14. Diclofenac sodium ophthalmic solution, 0.1% is a clear, colourless solution with an osmolality between 270 mOsmols/kg to 310 mOsmols/kg, buffered at a pH between 6.0 to 8.0. Diclofenac sodium ophthalmic solution has a faint characteristic odor of castor oil. Image Description

10. OVERDOSAGE There have been no known experiences of overdose with diclofenac sodium topical solution. Symptoms following acute NSAID overdose are usually limited to lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and epigastric pain, which are generally reversible with supportive care. Gastrointestinal bleeding can occur. Hypertension, acute renal failure, respiratory depression and coma may occur, but are rare. Anaphylactoid reactions have been reported with therapeutic ingestion of NSAIDs, and may occur following an overdose. Manage patients using symptomatic and supportive care following an NSAID overdose. There are no specific antidotes. Emesis is not recommended due to a possibility of aspiration and subsequent respiratory irritation by DMSO contained in diclofenac sodium topical solution. Activated charcoal (60 to 100 g in adults, 1 to 2 g/kg in children) and/or osmotic cathartic may be indicated in patients seen within 4 hours of ingestion with symptoms or following a large overdose (5 to 10 times the usual dose). Forced diureses, alkalinization of urine, hemodialysis, or hemoperfusion may not be useful due to high protein binding. For additional information about overdose treatment, call a poison control center (1-800-222-1222).

How Supplied / Storage and Handling

openFDA Drug Labeling

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Diclofenac sodium topical solution USP, 2% w/w, is supplied as a clear, colorless to faintly pink or orange solution containing 20 mg of diclofenac sodium USP per gram of solution, in a white polypropylene-dose pump bottle with a clear cap. Each pump actuation delivers 20 mg of diclofenac sodium USP in 1 gram of solution. NDC Number & Size 112 g bottle..............................................NDC # 85509-1537-1 Storage Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Relabeled by: PHOENIX RX LLC Hatboro, PA 19040

Adverse event reports

Source: openFDA FAERS
155,967
FAERS reports mentioning this drug
as of 2026-09-25T03:42:24+00:00
A report count is not a risk measure. FAERS accepts voluntary and mandatory reports without establishing causation, and reporting is influenced by how widely a drug is used, how long it has been marketed, and media attention. FDA states that reports “do not prove that the drug caused the event”. Compare rates, not totals.

Attributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: DICLOFENAC SODIUM. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.

Recalls

Source: FDA Enforcement
Drug recall enforcement reports associated with this product.
Classification Reported Firm Reason Status
Class II August 2, 2023 ALEMBIC PHARMACEUTICALS, INC. Defective Delivery System Ongoing

Packaging and NDCs

Source: NDC Directory
Every National Drug Code package associated with this medication. The NDC is the identifier used for dispensing, billing and pharmacovigilance in the United States.
Package NDC Product NDC Labeler Description Marketing start
50090-3316-0 50090-3316 A-S Medication Solutions 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (50090-3316-0) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE December 28, 2017
50090-3568-0 50090-3568 A-S Medication Solutions 5 mL in 1 BOTTLE (50090-3568-0) August 31, 2018
50090-6713-0 50090-6713 A-S Medication Solutions 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER in 1 CARTON (50090-6713-0) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER October 2, 2023
50090-7632-0 50090-7632 A-S Medication Solutions 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (50090-7632-0) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE August 18, 2025
87063-223-04 87063-223 ASCLEMED USA INC. 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 CARTON (87063-223-04) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP June 10, 2026
72888-150-21 72888-150 Advagen Pharma Ltd 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (72888-150-21) / 2.5 mL in 1 BOTTLE April 30, 2025
72888-150-22 72888-150 Advagen Pharma Ltd 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (72888-150-22) / 5 mL in 1 BOTTLE April 30, 2025
80425-0237-1 80425-0237 Advanced Rx Pharmacy of Tennessee, LLC 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (80425-0237-1) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE January 10, 2023
80425-0335-1 80425-0335 Advanced Rx Pharmacy of Tennessee, LLC 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (80425-0335-1) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE May 19, 2023
80425-0337-1 80425-0337 Advanced Rx Pharmacy of Tennessee, LLC 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 CARTON (80425-0337-1) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP May 19, 2023
80425-0240-1 80425-0240 Advanced Rx of Tennessee, LLC 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (80425-0240-1) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE January 10, 2023
80425-0361-1 80425-0361 Advanced Rx of Tennessee, LLC 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER in 1 CARTON (80425-0361-1) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER October 18, 2023
80425-0368-1 80425-0368 Advanced Rx of Tennessee, LLC 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER in 1 BOX (80425-0368-1) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER November 28, 2023
80425-0405-1 80425-0405 Advanced Rx of Tennessee, LLC 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 CARTON (80425-0405-1) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP June 27, 2024
80425-0550-1 80425-0550 Advanced Rx of Tennessee, LLC 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (80425-0550-1) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE August 27, 2025
62332-487-12 62332-487 Alembic Pharmaceuticals Inc. 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 CARTON (62332-487-12) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP November 29, 2022
46708-487-12 46708-487 Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 CARTON (46708-487-12) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP March 11, 2025
65162-683-12 65162-683 Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (65162-683-12) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE August 23, 2022
65162-911-74 65162-911 Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (65162-911-74) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE September 2, 2016
60505-0406-3 60505-0406 Apotex Corp. 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (60505-0406-3) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE May 9, 2022
76420-861-04 76420-861 Asclemed USA, Inc 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (76420-861-04) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE October 4, 2024
76420-012-30 76420-012 Asclemed USA, Inc. 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE (76420-012-30) February 5, 2020
76420-919-02 76420-919 Asclemed USA, Inc. 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER in 1 CARTON (76420-919-02) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER February 8, 2025
76420-919-04 76420-919 Asclemed USA, Inc. 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER in 1 CARTON (76420-919-04) / 60 mL in 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER February 8, 2025
13107-269-47 13107-269 Aurolife Pharma LLC 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (13107-269-47) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE February 3, 2023
42291-055-12 42291-055 AvKARE 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 BOX (42291-055-12) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP August 29, 2023
72162-2031-2 72162-2031 Bryant Ranch Prepack 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (72162-2031-2) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE May 26, 2023
72162-2601-2 72162-2601 Bryant Ranch Prepack 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 CARTON (72162-2601-2) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP February 17, 2026
72189-075-05 72189-075 DIRECT RX 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE (72189-075-05) May 15, 2020
72189-273-05 72189-273 DIRECT RX 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE (72189-273-05) September 16, 2021
72189-319-05 72189-319 DirectRx 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER (72189-319-05) January 19, 2022
72189-454-05 72189-454 Direct_Rx 150 mL in 1 CARTON (72189-454-05) March 29, 2023
72189-527-05 72189-527 Direct_Rx 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE (72189-527-05) December 11, 2023
21922-033-16 21922-033 Encube Ethicals, Inc. 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 CARTON (21922-033-16) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP April 14, 2025
68180-537-01 68180-537 Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 CARTON (68180-537-01) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP February 19, 2024
72603-207-01 72603-207 NorthStar Rx LLC 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (72603-207-01) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE June 1, 2024
40032-016-61 40032-016 Novel Laboratories, Inc. 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (40032-016-61) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE December 9, 2015
85509-1369-1 85509-1369 PHOENIX RX LLC 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 CARTON (85509-1369-1) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP September 5, 2025
85509-1406-1 85509-1406 PHOENIX RX LLC 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (85509-1406-1) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE October 23, 2025
85509-1537-1 85509-1537 PHOENIX RX LLC 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 CARTON (85509-1537-1) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP July 21, 2025
85509-1911-1 85509-1911 PHOENIX RX LLC 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (85509-1911-1) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE October 23, 2025
85509-2406-1 85509-2406 PHOENIX RX LLC 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (85509-2406-1) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE November 14, 2025
68788-7270-1 68788-7270 Preferred Pharmaceuticals Inc. 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (68788-7270-1) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE January 11, 2019
68788-8541-1 68788-8541 Preferred Pharmaceuticals Inc. 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (68788-8541-1) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE October 25, 2023
68788-8743-1 68788-8743 Preferred Pharmaceuticals Inc. 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 CARTON (68788-8743-1) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP September 26, 2024
68788-8838-1 68788-8838 Preferred Pharmaceuticals Inc. 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (68788-8838-1) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE March 6, 2025
68788-7715-1 68788-7715 Preferred Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER in 1 CARTON (68788-7715-1) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER June 1, 2020
71205-062-15 71205-062 Proficient Rx LP 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER in 1 CARTON (71205-062-15) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER July 2, 2018
71205-450-15 71205-450 Proficient Rx LP 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (71205-450-15) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE April 21, 2020
71205-579-15 71205-579 Proficient Rx LP 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER in 1 CARTON (71205-579-15) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER June 21, 2021
71205-811-15 71205-811 Proficient Rx LP 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (71205-811-15) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE June 2, 2023
82804-074-12 82804-074 Proficient Rx LP 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (82804-074-12) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE March 25, 2024
82804-113-12 82804-113 Proficient Rx LP 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 CARTON (82804-113-12) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP July 5, 2024
82804-160-12 82804-160 Proficient Rx LP 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (82804-160-12) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE November 11, 2024
55700-591-15 55700-591 Quality Care Products LLC 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (55700-591-15) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE March 9, 2018
83008-019-12 83008-019 Quality Care Products, LLC 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 CARTON (83008-019-12) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP May 2, 2023
70518-2811-0 70518-2811 REMEDYREPACK INC. 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER in 1 CARTON (70518-2811-0) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER July 10, 2020
70512-810-05 70512-810 SOLA Pharmaceuticals, LLC 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER in 1 BOX (70512-810-05) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER July 1, 2023
61314-014-05 61314-014 Sandoz Inc 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (61314-014-05) / 5 mL in 1 BOTTLE February 14, 2018
61314-014-25 61314-014 Sandoz Inc 1 BOTTLE in 1 CARTON (61314-014-25) / 2.5 mL in 1 BOTTLE February 14, 2018
51672-1358-2 51672-1358 Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER in 1 CARTON (51672-1358-2) / 150 mL in 1 BOTTLE, DROPPER November 26, 2014
51672-1369-8 51672-1369 Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. 1 BOTTLE, PUMP in 1 CARTON (51672-1369-8) / 112 g in 1 BOTTLE, PUMP May 31, 2023
50090-3316 50090-3316 A-S Medication Solutions — September 2, 2016
50090-3568 50090-3568 A-S Medication Solutions — February 14, 2008
50090-6713 50090-6713 A-S Medication Solutions — November 26, 2014
50090-7632 50090-7632 A-S Medication Solutions — June 1, 2024
87063-223 87063-223 ASCLEMED USA INC. — February 19, 2024
72888-150 72888-150 Advagen Pharma Ltd — April 30, 2025
80425-0237 80425-0237 Advanced Rx Pharmacy of Tennessee, LLC — January 10, 2023
80425-0335 80425-0335 Advanced Rx Pharmacy of Tennessee, LLC — May 19, 2023
80425-0337 80425-0337 Advanced Rx Pharmacy of Tennessee, LLC — May 19, 2023
80425-0240 80425-0240 Advanced Rx of Tennessee, LLC — January 10, 2023
80425-0361 80425-0361 Advanced Rx of Tennessee, LLC — October 18, 2023
80425-0368 80425-0368 Advanced Rx of Tennessee, LLC — November 28, 2023
80425-0405 80425-0405 Advanced Rx of Tennessee, LLC — June 27, 2024
80425-0550 80425-0550 Advanced Rx of Tennessee, LLC — August 27, 2025
62332-487 62332-487 Alembic Pharmaceuticals Inc. — November 29, 2022
46708-487 46708-487 Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited — March 11, 2025
65162-683 65162-683 Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC — August 23, 2022
65162-911 65162-911 Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC — September 2, 2016
60505-0406 60505-0406 Apotex Corp. — May 9, 2022
76420-861 76420-861 Asclemed USA, Inc — February 3, 2023
76420-012 76420-012 Asclemed USA, Inc. — September 2, 2016
76420-919 76420-919 Asclemed USA, Inc. — November 26, 2014
13107-269 13107-269 Aurolife Pharma LLC — February 3, 2023
42291-055 42291-055 AvKARE — August 29, 2023
72162-2031 72162-2031 Bryant Ranch Prepack — September 2, 2016
72162-2601 72162-2601 Bryant Ranch Prepack — May 31, 2023
72189-075 72189-075 DIRECT RX — May 15, 2020
72189-273 72189-273 DIRECT RX — September 16, 2021
72189-319 72189-319 DirectRx — January 19, 2022
72189-454 72189-454 Direct_Rx — March 29, 2023
72189-527 72189-527 Direct_Rx — December 11, 2023
21922-033 21922-033 Encube Ethicals, Inc. — April 14, 2025
68180-537 68180-537 Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. — February 19, 2024
43386-016 43386-016 Lupin Pharmaceuticals,Inc. — December 9, 2015
72603-207 72603-207 NorthStar Rx LLC — June 1, 2024
40032-016 40032-016 Novel Laboratories, Inc. — December 9, 2015
85509-1369 85509-1369 PHOENIX RX LLC — May 31, 2023
85509-1406 85509-1406 PHOENIX RX LLC — May 9, 2022
85509-1537 85509-1537 PHOENIX RX LLC — February 19, 2024
85509-1911 85509-1911 PHOENIX RX LLC — September 2, 2016
85509-2406 85509-2406 PHOENIX RX LLC — May 9, 2022
68788-7270 68788-7270 Preferred Pharmaceuticals Inc. — January 11, 2019
68788-8541 68788-8541 Preferred Pharmaceuticals Inc. — October 25, 2023
68788-8743 68788-8743 Preferred Pharmaceuticals Inc. — September 26, 2024
68788-8838 68788-8838 Preferred Pharmaceuticals Inc. — March 6, 2025
68788-7715 68788-7715 Preferred Pharmaceuticals, Inc. — June 1, 2020
71205-062 71205-062 Proficient Rx LP — November 26, 2014
71205-450 71205-450 Proficient Rx LP — July 31, 2018
71205-579 71205-579 Proficient Rx LP — November 26, 2014
71205-811 71205-811 Proficient Rx LP — September 2, 2016
82804-074 82804-074 Proficient Rx LP — February 3, 2023
82804-113 82804-113 Proficient Rx LP — February 19, 2024
82804-160 82804-160 Proficient Rx LP — June 1, 2024
55700-591 55700-591 Quality Care Products LLC — March 9, 2018
83008-019 83008-019 Quality Care Products, LLC — May 2, 2023
70518-2811 70518-2811 REMEDYREPACK INC. — July 10, 2020
70512-810 70512-810 SOLA Pharmaceuticals, LLC — July 1, 2023
61314-014 61314-014 Sandoz Inc — February 14, 2008
51672-1358 51672-1358 Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. — November 26, 2014
51672-1369 51672-1369 Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc. — May 31, 2023

Sources for this page

Every dataset that contributed a fact to this page.
Dataset Agency Used for
NDC Directory FDA Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages
Drugs@FDA FDA Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status
Orange Book FDA Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity
Drug Labeling FDA / NLM Prescribing information reproduced above
FAERS FDA Adverse event report counts
Enforcement FDA Recall records

Generated September 25, 2026 · 13 sections on this page.