Diclofenac Dosage and Administration

Introduction to Diclofenac Therapy

• The British Journal of Dermatology recommends applying Diclofenac 3% gel twice daily for 60-90 days 1
• Extended treatment with Diclofenac 3% gel for up to 180 days may provide additional 5% complete clearance without a significant increase in adverse effects 1

Diclofenac Dosage Recommendations

• In patients with increased GI risk, the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases suggests using non-selective NSAIDs plus a gastroprotective agent or a selective COX-2 inhibitor 2
• The risk of GI adverse events is dose-dependent, with an odds ratio of 2.2 for Diclofenac 75 mg/day, 3.2 for 75-150 mg/day, and 12.2 for >150 mg/day 2

Monitoring and Precautions

• Patients should be monitored for GI bleeding, especially the elderly or those with a history of peptic ulcer disease, and renal function in patients with pre-existing renal impairment, as well as liver function with prolonged use 2
• Cardiovascular risk should be assessed before initiating therapy and periodically during treatment 2