Diclotrex
Diclotrex is a prepackaged kit with two different topical (on the skin) products. It contains diclofenac solution and Camphotrex (camphor / menthol) gel. Together, the medications temporarily help relieve aches and pains from osteoarthritis of the knee. Diclotrex is only available as a brand-name prescription medication, so the kit can be expensive.
What is Diclotrex?
What is Diclotrex used for?
- To relieve aches and pains from osteoarthritis of the knee
How Diclotrex works
Diclotrex is a prepackaged kit with two different topical products.
- Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking proteins called cyclooxygenase 1 and 2 (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes from making chemicals called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins play many roles in your body, including pain and swelling. By blocking your body from making prostaglandins, diclofenac treats osteoarthritis by easing joint pain and swelling.
- Camphotrex (camphor / menthol) gel is a combination of two medications. Camphor is a topical pain medication that causes a cooling, then warming sensation. It eases pain by making your nerves less sensitive to pain and itching. Menthol is also another topical pain medication that's often found in peppermint or other mint plants. It works by causing a cooling sensation that makes the nerves on your skin less sensitive to pain.
Drug facts
Side effects of Diclotrex
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
Diclofenac topical solution
- Dry skin at application site (32%)
- Red and hardened skin at application site (9-13%)
- Indigestion (8%)
- Belly pain (6%)
- Itchy skin at application site (4%)
- Extra gas (4%)
- Diarrhea (4%)
- Nausea (4%)
- Sore throat (4%)
Camphor 4% / Menthol 10% gel
- Skin reactions: dryness, redness, burning, discoloration
Less Common Side Effects
Diclofenac topical solution
- Constipation
- Swelling
- Infection
- Bruising
- Blisters at application site
- Tingling sensation
- Bad breath
Diclotrex serious side effects
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Heart attack: trouble breathing, chest pain or tightness
- Stroke: blurred vision, difficulty speaking, difficulty walking, weakness on one side of the body
- Stomach bleeds: blood in your vomit, stool that looks like black coffee grounds, pain in your stomach that doesn't go away
- Heart failure: trouble breathing, tiredness, swelling in your body, sudden weight gain
- Severe asthma attack: chest pain, cough, difficulty breathing, wheezing
- Serious allergic or skin reaction: fever, body aches, cough, peeling skin, rash, trouble breathing, swelling of the face, painful blisters all over your body
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Pros and cons of Diclotrex
Pros
- Can be applied directly to the painful area
- Combines three topical medications into one kit for convenience
- Might have less side effects compared to oral (by mouth) diclofenac
- Can be used with other topical medications once the treated area is dry
Cons
- Need to avoid sun exposure during treatment
- Can sometimes cause a skin reaction where applied
- Can be inconvenient to use because you need to wait for the medication to dry before putting on clothing or other topical products
- Needs to be used multiple times a day
Pharmacist tips for Diclotrex
- Diclotrex should only be used on the outside of your body (i.e., skin), on skin that's not broken. You shouldn’t use it on wounds or on damaged skin. Don't take Diclotrex by mouth, and never use it in your eyes, nose, or ears to avoid side effects.
- Wash your hands before and after using Diclotrex to help prevent getting the medication in your eyes or mouth. If it does get into your eyes, wash your eyes with water or saline and contact your provider if irritation lasts more than an hour.
- Make sure to read the Instructions for Use before using diclofenac topical solution in your kit. Before applying the medication, clean and dry the affected area(s) of your skin. Apply 10 drops of the solution at a time (to your hand or directly to the knee) to avoid spilling it. Gently massage the medication around the front, back, and sides of the knee. Repeat this step 4 times until all 40 drops are applied.
- Avoid taking a shower or bath for at least 30 minutes after applying Diclotrex so it can be absorbed into your skin properly.
- Don't cover the treated area with a bandage or heating pad after applying Diclotrex. Doing so might affect how much medication gets absorbed.
- Avoid direct exposure of the treated area(s) to natural or artificial sunlight, such as sunbathing or using a tanning bed. Even though it's rare, the diclofenac in Diclotrex can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, which can result in redness, irritation, or rash. If you're going out, make sure to wear sunscreen or clothing to protect the treated area(s) from sun exposure.
- Let your provider or pharmacist know what medications you're taking, including over-the-counter products and supplements, before you start Diclotrex. They can help you screen for interactions.
- Stop using Diclotrex and talk with your provider if you've been using this medication for more than a week. Also let your provider know if you get excessive irritation on the skin, or if your pain has gotten worse. Your provider can make sure there are no other serious medical conditions going on.
- Store Diclotrex at room temperature and up and away out of children's reach and sight. This prevents them from accidentally swallowing medication that's left out. Always put medication away every time you use it. If you think that your child might’ve accidentally swallowed Diclotrex, call your Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away even if you aren't completely sure.
Common questions about Diclotrex
You're not recommended to take ibuprofen (Advil) tablets with Diclotrex unless your provider instructs you to do so. This is because both ibuprofen (Advil) and the diclofenac in Diclotrex are both in a group of medications called NSAIDs. Taking an NSAID by mouth along with Diclotrex can put you at higher risk for side effects, such as stomach bleeds, or swelling in the hands and feet. Be aware that NSAIDs are found in many common over-the-counter and prescription pain medications. Talk with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you're not sure whether you're already taking an NSAID before starting Diclotrex.
You can use other topical medications or skin products (e.g., sunscreen, bug repellant, or moisturizer) while using Diclotrex. But you need to wait until the treated area with diclofenac topical solution has completely dried. Applying other topical products too early can affect how much Diclotrex your skin absorbs. Avoid touching pets or other people while the medication is drying. Otherwise, you might transfer some of this medication onto them.
Follow your provider's instructions on how to use Diclotrex. The diclofenac solution in the kit is only FDA-approved to treat osteoarthritis of the knee. However, the Camphotrex (camphor / menthol) gel can be used for short-term relief of minor aches and pains of muscles and joints associated with backache, arthritis, strains, bruises, and sprains. Your provider can instruct you on the best way to use this product in your kit to help relieve your symptoms.
No, Diclotrex is a prepackaged kit that requires a prescription. The diclofenac sodium 1.5% topical solution is a prescription medication. However, Camphotrol (camphor/menthol) gel is available over the counter. OTC camphor and menthol combination products are also available in different strengths. Talk with your provider or pharmacist if you've any questions about any individual ingredient in this product.
No, Diclotrex can't cure your osteoarthritis. There's currently no cure for this health condition. However, most treatments, including Diclotrex, can lower inflammation, avoid serious flare-ups, and keep osteoarthritis under control. Consider doing low-impact exercises, such as swimming and biking, to strengthen your muscles and improve flexibility. Losing weight can also help to relieve stress on the joints. Using devices such as canes or walkers can help to alleviate stress on the joints and to prevent falls. Ask your provider about other ways you can manage your osteoarthritis.
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Risks and warnings for Diclotrex
Diclotrex 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.
Heart attack and stroke
- Risk factors: History of heart problems, including heart attack | Using high doses of topical diclofenac | Using topical diclofenac for a long time | History of heart bypass surgery
NSAIDs, like diclofenac in Diclotrex, can raise your risk of having blood clots, heart attacks, or strokes. The risk might be higher if you have a history of heart problems, use this medication at higher doses, or use this medication for a long period of time. To prevent heart attack or stroke from happening, your provider will prescribe the lowest possible dose of Diclotrex for the shortest amount of time that works well for you. If you have heart problems, talk to your healthcare provider before starting this medication. Don't use Diclotrex if you've had or will be having heart bypass surgery. Call 911 or seek immediate medical help if you experience chest pain, trouble breathing, weakness on one side of your body, or trouble speaking or walking.
Stomach bleeding and ulcers
- Risk factors: History of stomach bleeding or ulcers | Older adults | Taking other medications that can cause stomach problems | Drinking alcohol | Smoking | Having poor health | Bleeding problems | Using topical diclofenac for a long time | Using higher doses of topical diclofenac
Diclofenac in Diclotrex can cause stomach bleeding and ulcers. These problems can occur without warning or symptoms, so it's best to use the lowest possible dose for the shortest possible time to minimize your risk. Some medications, such as oral corticosteroids and blood thinners, can raise your risk of stomach bleeding. Tell your provider about all the medications that you take before starting Diclotrex. If you have severe stomach pain, black and tarry stools, or blood in the urine while using this medication, get medical help promptly.
Blood problems
- Risk factors: History of blood problems | Taking blood thinners
Diclofenac in Diclotrex can lower the level of red blood cells in your body. This might be due to stomach bleeding or swelling caused by diclofenac. Your provider will do blood tests to check your blood cell counts for these problems if you seem weaker than usual, have cold hands and feet, or shortness of breath. Additionally, NSAIDs like diclofenac can affect the way your blood clots. Please let your provider know if you have a history of blood problems or if you take blood thinners. Your provider can make sure Diclotrex is safe for you.
Liver damage
- Risk factors: History of liver damage | Taking other medications that can cause liver damage
Rarely, diclofenac (an ingredient in Diclotrex) taken by mouth has cause life-threatening liver damage. This can happen as early as within the first 2 months of starting this medication. Your risk is higher if you use Diclotrex with other medications that can also cause liver damage, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol). Liver damage can happen with or without symptoms, so it's best to use the lowest possible dose for the shortest possible time to minimize your risk. Your provider might order blood tests to check your liver function regularly. Stop Diclotrex and talk to your provider right away if you experience symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, clay-colored stool, or dark urine.
High blood pressure, heart failure, and swelling of your arms and legs
- *Risk factors: High blood pressure | Heart failure *
NSAIDs, like diclofenac in Diclotrex, can raise your blood pressure and can cause your body to hold onto more water. This can lead to new or worsen existing blood pressure problems, heart failure, and swelling of your arms and legs. Diclotrex can also cause some medications used to treat these conditions to be less effective, such as furosemide (Lasix) and lisinopril (Zestril). Monitor your blood pressure closely while using Diclotrex. Diclotrex isn't recommended if you have heart failure, so discuss with your provider before starting this medication. Let your provider know right away if you notice any changes in your blood pressure or experience symptoms, such as trouble breathing, tiredness, swelling in your body, or sudden weight gain.
Kidney damage
- Risk factors: Kidney or liver problems | Heart failure | Taking certain high blood pressure medications, such as water pills or ACEIs | Older adults | Loss of body fluid through conditions such as severe vomiting, bleeding, or diarrhea | Using topical diclofenac for a long time
Diclofenac (an ingredient in Diclotrex) can damage your kidneys by slowing down blood flow to the kidneys. The risk is higher if you're taking certain blood pressure medications (like ACE inhibitors or water pills) or have certain medical conditions (e.g., kidney problems, liver problems, heart failure). Kidney damage is usually reversible once you stop taking this medication. If you have very severe kidney problems, discuss the risks of using this medication with your provider. Let your provider know if you notice a change in how often you urinate after starting Diclotrex.
Severe asthma attack and allergic reactions
- Risk factors: Asthma and stuffy nose with or without nasal polyps | History of allergic reaction to aspirin or other NSAIDs
Rarely, Diclotrex can cause life-threatening allergic reactions. Diclofenac in Diclotrex can cause your airways to tighten, which might lead to severe asthma attacks. Be careful using this medication if you have asthma. People who've experienced asthma attacks triggered by aspirin or other NSAIDs in the past should avoid Diclotrex. Get medical help right away if your throat tightens and you can't breathe.
Serious skin reactions
Diclofenac in Diclotrex might cause sudden and serious skin reactions. Symptoms can include fever, body aches, rash, peeling skin, painful blisters all over your body, and swelling of the face. Stop Diclotrex and get medical attention right away if you experience these symptoms. Don't apply this medication to open wounds, skin infections, or inflamed skin as this can change how the medication gets absorbed or delay you from receiving the right medication in the meantime.
Harm to unborn babies
- Risk factor: Currently in second or third trimester of pregnancy
Don't use Diclotrex, specifically topical diclofenac, starting at 30 weeks of pregnancy. It can cause serious complications, such as heart or kidney problems in your unborn baby. If you're pregnant, speak to your provider about the risks and benefits of this medication.
For topical use only
Diclotrex should only be used on your skin. Don't take this medication by mouth, and never use it in your eyes, nose, or ears. If you think that your child might’ve accidentally swallowed this medication, call your Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 right away.
Diclotrex dosage
Kit| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 150ml/85g of 1.5%/4%/10% | 1 kit | $3,279.05 | $3,279.05 |
Typical dosage for Diclotrex
- Diclofenac 1.5% solution: The typical dose is to apply 40 drops to the affected knee(s) 4 times daily.
- Camphotrex (Camphor 4% / Menthol 10%) gel: The typical dose is to apply a generous amount of gel to the affected area(s) up to 3-4 times daily.
How much does Diclotrex cost?
$3,279.05
Diclotrex contraindications
Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Diclotrex will not be safe for you to take.
- History of asthma, hives, or allergy to aspirin or other NSAIDs
- Recent or upcoming heart bypass surgery
