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Diclofenac Sodium Coupon - Diclofenac Sodium 100g of 3% tube of gel

diclofenac sodium

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

Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel is a topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It's prescribed for adults to treat actinic keratosis, a skin condition caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet light. Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel is applied directly to the affected area twice daily. Treatment usually takes about 2 to 3 months. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include itching, rash, and dry skin at the application site. Brand name Solaraze has been discontinued; diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel is only available as a generic medication.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Connie Zheng, PharmD
reviewer
Cydnee Ng, PharmD
Last reviewed on September 23, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel?

What is Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel used for?

How Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel works

Actinic keratosis (AK) is a condition where your skin cells grow faster than normal. It results from too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or tanning beds. If left untreated, AK can develop into skin cancer.

Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking proteins in your body that help form new cells and blood vessels. Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel treats actinic keratoses (AK) by stopping abnormal skin cells from growing.

Are you looking for information on oral diclofenac, diclofenac (Flector) patches, or diclofenac topicals for pain instead?
When does Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsSolaraze (brand no longer available)
Drug ClassNSAID
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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$705.500
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What are the side effects of Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel?

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

  • Itchy skin (up to 52%)
  • Rash (up to 46%)
  • Redness, rash, itchiness of the skin (contact dermatitis, up to 33%)
  • Pain at application site (up to 26%)
  • Dry skin (up to 27%)
  • Peeling skin (up to 24%)
  • Burning or prickly sensation (up to 20%)

Other Side Effects

  • Headache

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Heart attack: dizziness, tiredness, cold sweat, trouble breathing, chest pain or tightness, anxiety
  • Stroke: tiredness, lightheadedness, blurred vision, difficulty speaking, difficulty walking, weakness on one side of the body
  • 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, swelling of the face, painful blisters all over your body
When do Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Itchy skin
Rash
Pain at application site

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 sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel

thumbs-up

Pros

Milder side effects compared to some other AK medications

Skin might continue to improve even after you stop this medication

Don't need to be refrigerated; store at room temperature

thumbs-down

Cons

Applied twice daily

Can make your skin more sensitive to the sun and put you at higher risk for sunburns

Not recommended for use if you have stomach bleeds or ulcers, or severe kidney or liver damage

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel

pharmacist

  • Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel can continue to work for up to one month even after you stop treatment. You might see your skin continue to improve during this time. Let your dermatology team know if your skin doesn't get better.

    • After applying diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel, wash your hands well before touching anything else. This prevents the medication from getting on and causing irritation to other parts of your body, such as your eyes. If it gets in your eyes or anywhere that it doesn't belong, rinse well with water and get medical help.

      • Limit or avoid exposure to sunlight, tanning beds, or UV lamps while using diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel. This medication will make your skin more sensitive to the sun and other UV light and put you at higher risk for burns.

        • Don't use diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel with other oral NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve). Doing so puts you at higher risk for certain side effects, like stomach ulcers, stroke, and heart attack. NSAIDs are commonly found in over-the-counter pain and cold medications. Talk with your healthcare team or pharmacist if you're not sure whether you're already taking an NSAID.

          • Applying lotion, sunscreen, or makeup might affect how well your skin absorbs diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel. Ask your dermatology team if you can apply these and other skin products with this medication.

            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel

            What's the difference between diclofenac sodium 1% gel and diclofenac sodium 3% gel?
            The main difference between diclofenac sodium (Voltaren) 1% gel and diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel is what condition they're approved to treat. Diclofenac sodium 1% gel is used to help with joint pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis. It's found over the counter (OTC) and can be applied up to 4 times a day for up to 3 weeks. Diclofenac sodium 3% gel isn't a pain medication; it's only FDA-approved to treat actinic keratoses. Diclofenac sodium 3% gel is only available by prescription and is typically applied twice a day for 2 to 3 months. Ask your healthcare team if you have more questions about diclofenac sodium 1% or 3% gel.
            Can I use diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel to ease pain from arthritis?
            No, diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel is only approved to treat actinic keratoses. Diclofenac sodium (Voltaren) 1% gel is used to treat pain from osteoarthritis. If you have both actinic keratosis and osteoarthritis pain, don't use diclofenac 1% and diclofenac 3% gel together unless your healthcare team instructs you to do so. Using them together can put you at higher risk for side effects, such as stomach bleeds, stroke, and kidney problems. If you have both medical conditions, ask your care team what treatments are most appropriate for you.
            Does diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel expire?
            Yes, diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel expires. You should be able to find the expiration date of your medication on the box or tube. It's important to store diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel properly at room temperature (68° to 77°F) so that it can continue to work well up until the expiration date. If your medication has expired, ask your dermatology team about next steps.
            Does diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel damage healthy skin?
            Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel can irritate healthy skin. Some of the more common side effects of this medication include itchy, dry, and peeling skin at the application site. But diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel is less likely to cause skin irritation than some other medications used to treat AK, such as fluorouracil (Efudex) and imiquimod. If you're concerned about how diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel might affect your skin, talk with your dermatology team.
            Can I apply diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel to damaged skin?
            Don't apply diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel to any open skin wounds, infections, or damaged and peeling skin (exfoliative dermatitis). Applying the gel to these areas of skin can cause you to absorb more medication and might put you at higher risk of side effects. If your skin is damaged, talk to your dermatologist about other possible options for you.
            Do I need to protect myself from the sun while using diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel?
            Yes, you need to protect yourself from the sun while using diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel. This medication makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, so staying out of the sun can prevent sunburns. Because actinic keratosis results from too much exposure to UV light, limiting or avoiding sunlight can also prevent your condition from getting worse. Take care to protect your skin if you need to spend a long time outside, even when it's cool and cloudy. Try to stay in shaded areas as much as possible. If that's difficult, you can wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to cover your arms and legs or a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck.
            Is Solaraze still available?
            No, brand name Solaraze has been discontinued. Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel is only available as a generic medication.
            Is diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel available over the counter?
            No, diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel is only available by prescription. Diclofenac sodium (Voltaren) 1% gel is available over the counter, but this medication isn't FDA-approved to treat AK. The lower strength diclofenac sodium (Voltaren) 1% gel is only able to treat pain and inflammation from osteoarthritis.
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            What are the risks and warnings for Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel?

            Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel 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

            Heart attack and stroke

            • Risk factors: History of heart problems, including heart attack | Using high doses of diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel | Using diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel for a long time | History of heart bypass surgery

              NSAIDs like diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel can raise your risk of having blood clots, heart attacks, or strokes. This can happen as early as within the first weeks of starting this medication. People with heart problems, those using high doses of diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel, and those using diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel for a long time have a higher risk of this happening. That’s why it’s important to use the lowest possible dose for the shortest possible time. If you have heart problems, talk to your healthcare team before starting this medication. Don't use diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel 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.

              risk-warning

              Heart failure and swelling of your arms and legs

              • Risk factors: Heart failure | Taking certain medications, such as water pills, ACEIs, and ARBs

                NSAIDs including diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel can cause your body to hold onto more water. This can lead to new or worsening heart failure and swelling of your arms and legs. Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel can also cause some medications used to treat these conditions to be less effective, such as furosemide (Lasix), lisinopril (Zestril), and losartan (Cozaar).Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel isn't recommended if you have severe heart failure, so discuss with your healthcare team before starting this medication. Let your healthcare team know right away if you experience any symptoms, such as trouble breathing, tiredness, swelling in your body, or sudden weight gain.

                risk-warning

                Severe asthma attack

                • Risk factors: Asthma and stuffy nose with or without nasal polyps | Allergic reaction to aspirin or other NSAIDs

                  Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel 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 (Aspir-Low) or other NSAIDs in the past should avoid diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel. Get medical help right away if your throat tightens and you can't breathe.

                  risk-warning

                  Severe allergic or skin reaction

                  Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel might cause sudden, very serious, and sometimes life-threatening allergic and skin reactions, such as Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) syndrome. Symptoms include fever, body aches, rash, peeling skin, painful blisters all over your body, and swelling of the face. Stop the medication and get help right away if you experience these symptoms.

                  risk-warning

                  Harm to unborn babies

                  • Risk factors: Currently pregnant

                    If diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel is used during or after the second trimester of pregnancy, it can lower the amniotic fluid (the fluid that surrounds the baby in the womb). This can occur as soon as 2 days after starting the medication and result in serious kidney problems in your unborn baby. Babies born to mothers who use diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel starting in the third trimester of pregnancy or later can also develop heart problems. If you're thinking of getting pregnant or becoming pregnant, talk to your healthcare team about the risks and benefits of using diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel.

                    dosage

                    Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel dosage forms

                    Typical dosing for Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel

                    • Adults: The typical dose is to apply to the affected area(s) 2 times a day. Use enough gel to cover each skin lesion (abnormal area of skin growth). Your dermatologist will instruct you to use the lowest dose of this medication for the shortest amount of time needed to treat your condition. Typically, treatment lasts 2 to 3 months.

                    interactions

                    Interactions between Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel and other drugs

                    Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel 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 sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel. 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.

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                    contraindications-icon

                    Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel 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 Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel will not be safe for you to take.

                    • Heart bypass surgery

                    alternatives

                    What are alternatives to Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel?

                    There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                    Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel
                    Used for:
                    View Prices
                    Imiquimod
                    Used for:

                    • Face or scalp actinic keratosis (scaly precancerous spot or growth on the skin) in adults - all brands and strengths

                    • Genital and anal warts in adults and children 12 years and older - Zyclara 3.75% and Aldara 5% only

                    • Superficial basal cell carcinoma (a type of skin cancer) in adults - Aldara 5% only

                    $33.51 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Fluorouracil (Efudex) topical
                    Used for:
                    $35.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    latest news

                    What is the latest news about Diclofenac sodium (Solaraze) 3% gel?

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                    This medicine is Yellow Tube Of Gel.yellow - Diclofenac Sodium 3% Topical Gel

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                    References

                    Best studies we found

                    Alembic Pharmaceuticals Inc. (2024). Diclofenac sodium- diclofenac sodium topical gel [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    Del Regno, L., et al. (2022). A review of existing therapies for actinic keratosis: current status and future directions. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology.

                    Nelson, C. G. (2011). Diclofenac gel in the treatment of actinic keratoses. Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management.

                    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.
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