provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Diclofenac Sodium Coupon - Diclofenac Sodium 5ml of 0.1% eye dropper

diclofenac sodium

Generic Voltaren
Used for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Eye Inflammation, Osteoarthritis, Actinic Keratosis
Used for Rheumatoid Arthritis, Eye Inflammation, Osteoarthritis, Actinic Keratosis

Diclofenac eye drops are used to ease pain, redness, swelling, and light sensitivity after certain types of eye surgery. It's typically applied to the affect eye(s), typically four times a day. Some of the more common side effects of diclofenac eye drops include temporary stinging and burning. This medication is only available as a generic.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Connie Zheng, PharmD
reviewer
Cydnee Ng, PharmD
Last reviewed on September 7, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Diclofenac eye drops?

What is Diclofenac eye drops used for?

  • Pain, swelling, and redness (inflammation) in the eye after cataract surgery

  • Pain or light sensitivity in the eye after corneal surgery

How Diclofenac eye drops works

Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It stops your body from making chemicals that cause pain, swelling, and redness in the eye.

Are you looking for information on diclofenac (Voltaren) gel or oral diclofenac instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsVoltaren (brand no longer available)
Drug ClassNSAID
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$58.08(save 84.58%)
GoodRx discount
$8.95
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Diclofenac eye drops?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Temporary stinging or burning sensation of the eye
  • Redness and swelling of the cornea (keratitis)
  • Teary eye

Other Side Effects

  • High pressure inside the eye
  • Blurry vision and trouble seeing clearly
  • Redness and swelling of the iris (the colored part of the eye)
  • Eye irritation or itchiness
  • Eye infection (like pink eye)
  • Dry eyes
  • Eye discharge
  • Eyelid swelling

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Burning, itching, redness, skin rash, swelling, or soreness at the application site

itching skin

Less common

Blood in the urine

chest pain

cough

dry, itching, or burning eyes

eye pain

headaches, including migraines

increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight

pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones

redness of the skin

redness or swelling of the eyes

runny or stuffy nose

skin rash other than at the application site

sore throat

tightness in the chest

troubled breathing

ulcers or sores on the skin, other than at the application site

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Chills

diarrhea

fever

general feeling of discomfort or illness

joint pain

loss of appetite

muscle aches and pains

nausea

scaly, thick, or tingling skin

shivering

sweating

trouble sleeping

unusual tiredness or weakness

vomiting

Less common

Acne

back pain

belching

bleeding skin

burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings

dizziness

heartburn

increase in body movements

indigestion

lack or loss of strength

loss of or change in taste

loss or thinning of the hair

neck pain

sleepiness or unusual drowsiness

stomach upset or pain

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Diclofenac eye drops

thumbs-up

Pros

Works well for eye pain, swelling, and redness

Causes fewer serious side effects than oral diclofenac

Available as a lower-cost generic medication

thumbs-down

Cons

Inconvenient to use because it's typically applied 4 times a day

Can cause temporary stinging or burning after using

Can put you at higher risk for eye damage, especially if you have certain medical conditions, like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Diclofenac eye drops

pharmacist

  • Wash your hands before putting diclofenac eye drops in your eyes. Don't touch the dropper tip with your eye, hands, or any other surface. This will help keep your bottle clean and prevent eye infections.

    • Use diclofenac eye drops exactly as prescribed. Using the drops longer or more often than what's prescribed can put you at higher risk for side effects, such as damage to your eyes.

      • After placing a drop of medication in your eye, without squeezing your eyes shut, close them gently for 2 to 3 minutes with your head tilted downward. Then, press one finger to the inner corner of your eye by your nose. This helps make sure your eye absorbs the medication.

        • If you need to put two diclofenac eye drops or use two different eye medications in the same eye, wait 5 minutes between each drop. If you put in the second drop too soon, it can flush out the first drop and you won't get the full dose of the medication.

          • Don't wear soft contacts while using diclofenac eye drops because you might experience eye-related side effects. Ask your provider when it's safe for you to start wearing contact lenses again.

            • If you're pregnant, check with your provider before using diclofenac eye drops. This medication isn't recommended for use during pregnancy because it wasn't studied in human pregnancy.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Diclofenac eye drops

              How quickly do diclofenac eye drops work?
              Limited research suggests that you can expect to feel eye pain easing about 2 hours after you apply diclofenac eye drops. If you don't notice a difference in pain level after this time, let your provider know. Depending on your medical condition, they can recommend tips or talk with you about other medication options to ease the pain.
              What pain medications can I take with diclofenac eye drops?
              If you continue to experience pain after applying diclofenac eye drops, contact your provider. They can talk with you about other medication options to help with pain, such as steroid eye drops, depending on what medical condition you have. If appropriate, they might recommend oral pain medications. But check with your provider before you start any over-the-counter oral pain medications. Your provider can let you know if they're safe to take with diclofenac eye drops.
              Will diclofenac eye drops cause burning and stinging in the eyes?
              Diclofenac eye drops can cause mild burning or stinging your eyes, especially right after you put the drops in your eyes. This side effect should be temporary. Let your provider know if the burning or stinging gets worse or doesn't go away.
              Is diclofenac eye drop a steroid?
              No, this medication isn't a steroid; it's a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Even though steroid and NSAID eye drops are two different classes of medications, both can help with pain, swelling, and redness in the eyes. They're sometimes prescribed together after eye surgery.
              Can I get diclofenac eye drops over the counter?
              No, diclofenac eye drops is a prescription medication. You won't be able to find it over the counter.
              GoodRxEducationalIcon

              How to save using GoodRx

              Compare Prices
              1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
              Select your free coupon
              2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
              Show coupon to your pharmacist
              3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
              Get free couponLearn more
              warings-icon

              What are the risks and warnings for Diclofenac eye drops?

              Diclofenac eye drops can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

              risk-warning

              Bleeding

              • Risk factors: History of bleeding problems | Using other medications that raise your risk of bleeding

                Although rare, diclofenac eye drops can put you at risk for bleeds after eye surgery. Let your provider know if you have a history of bleeding problems or if you take any medications that can make you more likely to bleed, such as blood thinners. Call your provider if you notice blood spots on your eye, especially if you just had eye surgery.

                risk-warning

                Slower healing

                • Risk factors: Using corticosteroid eye drops

                  If you have any type of eye injury, diclofenac eye drops can slow down the healing process, especially if you're also using corticosteroid eye drops, such as prednisolone (Pred Forte) or dexamethasone (Maxidex). If you just had eye surgery, discuss with your provider which eye drops are most appropriate for you.

                  risk-warning

                  Cornea problems

                  • Risk factors: History of problems with the cornea or surface of the eye | Multiple eye surgeries | Rheumatoid arthritis | Diabetes | Using diclofenac eye drops for more than 24 hours before surgery or 14 days after surgery

                    Diclofenac eye drops can cause redness, swelling, weakening, or injury to the cornea. The cornea is the clear, protective layer at the front of the eye. Cornea problems can seriously affect your eyesight, and they might cause blindness. Let your provider know if you have a history of any type of cornea problems or if you're having multiple eye surgeries. Certain medical conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes, can put you at higher risk for cornea damage. Make sure you're getting regular eye check-ups while you're using diclofenac eye drops. Contact your provider immediately if you notice changes in your vision, or experience more eye pain or discomfort.

                    risk-warning

                    No soft contact lenses

                    Don't wear soft contacts while using diclofenac eye drops because doing so can lead to eye-related side effects. After surgery, your provider will let you know when it's safe to wear soft contacts again.

                    dosage

                    Diclofenac eye drops dosage forms

                    The average cost for 1 eye dropper of 5ml of 0.1% of Diclofenac eye drops is $10.99 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 81.08% off the average retail price of $58.08.
                    eye dropper
                    Eye dropper
                    DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                    2.5ml of 0.1%1 eye dropper$8.95$8.95
                    5ml of 0.1%1 eye dropper$10.99$10.99

                    Typical dosing for Diclofenac eye drops

                    Pain, swelling, and redness after cataract surgery: The typical dose is to place 1 drop into the affected eye(s) four times daily. Start 24 hours after surgery and continue for 2 weeks.

                    Pain or light sensitivity after corneal surgery: The typical dose is to place 1 to 2 drops into the affected eye(s) within an hour before surgery, then again within 15 minutes after surgery. Continue to place 1 to 2 drops into the affected eye(s) four times daily for up to 3 days.

                    More on Diclofenac eye drops dosage forms

                    Diclofenac: nurse patient medication 1416475615

                    Diclofenac Dosages for Adults: Your GoodRx Guide

                    Written by Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
                    interactions

                    Interactions between Diclofenac eye drops and other drugs

                    Diclofenac eye drops may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Diclofenac eye drops. Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                    drug-cost

                    How much does Diclofenac eye drops cost?

                    To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                    Voltaren (brand)
                    GoodRx lowest price

                    $8.95

                    0
                    Diclofenac eye drops (generic)
                    GoodRx lowest price

                    $8.95

                    (save 84.58%)
                    View prices & coupons
                    alternatives

                    What are alternatives to Diclofenac eye drops?

                    There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Diclofenac eye drops. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                    Diclofenac eye drops
                    Used for:

                    • Pain, swelling, and redness (inflammation) in the eye after cataract surgery

                    • Pain or light sensitivity in the eye after corneal surgery

                    $8.95 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Ketorolac eye drop
                    Used for:

                    • Relief of pain or inflammation after cornea refractive surgery in people ages 3 years and older - Ketorolac (Acular LS) 0.4% only

                    • Relief of pain or inflammation after cataract removal in people ages 2 years and older- Ketorolac (Acuvail) 0.45% and ketorolac (Acular) 0.5% only

                    • Itchy eyes due to allergies in people ages 2 years and older - Ketorolac (Acular) 0.5% only

                    $10.99 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Bromfenac
                    Used for:
                    $54.02 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    latest news

                    What is the latest news about Diclofenac eye drops?

                    Medications like Tylenol and Aleve are hepatotoxic, meaning they could raise liver enzymes and damage your liver over time. See the list of medications to avoid.

                    14 Medications That May Elevate Liver Enzymes and Raise Your Risk of Liver Damage

                    Medications like Tylenol and Aleve are hepatotoxic, meaning they could raise liver enzymes and damage your liver over time. See the list of medications to avoid.
                    The FDA strengthened the warning on NSAIDs stating that high doses over a long period of time can increase the risk of heart attack. Here’s what you should know.

                    Do NSAIDs Like Ibuprofen Increase Your Risk of Heart Attacks?

                    The FDA strengthened the warning on NSAIDs stating that high doses over a long period of time can increase the risk of heart attack. Here’s what you should know.
                    Have a headache or a pulled muscle? Odds are over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen will do the trick.

                    The 6 Best OTC Pain Relievers: Comparing Advil, Tylenol, and More

                    Have a headache or a pulled muscle? Odds are over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen will do the trick.
                    Learn about the most common over-the-counter and prescription NSAID drugs to understand what they’re used for and their potential side effects.

                    Ibuprofen, Naproxen, and More: The 8 Most Common NSAIDs

                    Learn about the most common over-the-counter and prescription NSAID drugs to understand what they’re used for and their potential side effects.
                    There are many solutions, beyond oral medication, for joint pain relief. Learn more about topical creams, patches, and gels that can help relieve joint pain.

                    Joint Pain Relief: Best Arthritis Creams, Gels, Patches, and Natural Methods

                    There are many solutions, beyond oral medication, for joint pain relief. Learn more about topical creams, patches, and gels that can help relieve joint pain.
                    Learn about some of the most common medications used to treat heart failure, and which medications can worsen the condition — some are more common than you think.

                    The Most Common Medications for Heart Failure (and Ones That Make Heart Failure Worse)

                    Learn about some of the most common medications used to treat heart failure, and which medications can worsen the condition — some are more common than you think.
                    There are eight types of migraines, each with its own symptoms, causes, and treatments. Learn what the different types of migraines are and how to find relief.

                    Different Types of Migraines: A Guide

                    There are eight types of migraines, each with its own symptoms, causes, and treatments. Learn what the different types of migraines are and how to find relief.
                    If you live with chronic pain, you may be wondering what the strongest non-opioid painkiller is. We cover the best and safest options for pain control and a few non-medication treatments that can help too.

                    A Complete Guide to Non-Opioid Painkillers: A List of NSAIDs, non-NSAIDs, and Treatments Beyond Pain Pills

                    If you live with chronic pain, you may be wondering what the strongest non-opioid painkiller is. We cover the best and safest options for pain control and a few non-medication treatments that can help too.
                    Steroid, NSAID, and antibiotic eye drops can fight dryness and inflammation after eye surgery. Learn how to save on eye drops after cataract surgery here.

                    How Much Are Eye Drops After Cataract Surgery, and How Can I Save?

                    Steroid, NSAID, and antibiotic eye drops can fight dryness and inflammation after eye surgery. Learn how to save on eye drops after cataract surgery here.
                    The diclofenac dosage for adults is typically 50 mg taken up to three times a day. But this can vary depending on the form of diclofenac you’re taking. Age and medical conditions can also affect your dosage.

                    Diclofenac Dosages for Adults: Your GoodRx Guide

                    The diclofenac dosage for adults is typically 50 mg taken up to three times a day. But this can vary depending on the form of diclofenac you’re taking. Age and medical conditions can also affect your dosage.
                    images

                    Diclofenac eye drops images

                    Diclofenac Sodium Coupon - Diclofenac Sodium 2.5ml of 0.1% eye dropper
                    eye dropper (2.5ml) 0.1% of diclofenac sodiumDiclofenac Sodium Coupon - Diclofenac Sodium 2.5ml of 0.1% eye dropper
                    Diclofenac Sodium Coupon - Diclofenac Sodium 5ml of 0.1% eye dropper
                    eye dropper (5ml) 0.1% of diclofenac sodiumDiclofenac Sodium Coupon - Diclofenac Sodium 5ml of 0.1% eye dropper

                    Get savings updates for Diclofenac eye drops

                    Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Diclofenac eye drops and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

                    By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.

                    References

                    Best studies we found

                    Altaire Pharmaceuticals Inc. (2022). Diclofenac- diclofenac sodium solution/drops [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    Hoffman, R. S., et al. (2016). Cataract surgery and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs. Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.

                    SafeMedication. (n.d.). How to use eye drops.

                    View All References (1)

                    Szucs, P. A., et al. (2000). Safety and efficacy of diclofenac ophthalmic solution in the treatment of corneal abrasions. Annals of Emergency Medicine.

                    GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
                    Was this page helpful?

                    Browse medications

                    View All

                    Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.