IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

DICLOFENAC SODIUM SOLUTION - TOPICAL

(dye-KLOE-fen-ak SOE-dee-um)

WARNING: This drug may infrequently cause serious (rarely fatal) bleeding from the stomach or intestines. This side effect can occur without warning at any time during treatment with diclofenac. The elderly are at increased risk for serious stomach/intestinal bleeding.

Drugs related to diclofenac have rarely caused blood clots that result in serious (possibly fatal) heart attacks and strokes. This medication might also rarely cause similar problems. The risk of these serious side effects may increase if you have heart disease or increased risk for heart disease (for example, due to smoking, family history of heart disease, or conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes), or if you use this medication for a longer time. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the benefits and risks of treatment, as well as other possible medication choices.

Stop using diclofenac and seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following rare but very serious side effects: black/bloody stools, persistent stomach/abdominal pain, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side of the body, sudden vision changes, slurred speech.

This medication should not be used right before or after heart bypass surgery.

USES: This medication is used to treat arthritis of the knee(s). It reduces pain, swelling, and helps improve your ability to move and flex the joint. Diclofenac sodium is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

If you are treating a chronic condition such as arthritis, ask your doctor about non-drug treatments and/or using other medications to treat your pain. See also Warning section.

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide if available, and the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using diclofenac and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Apply this medication to clean, dry skin, usually 40 drops for each knee four times daily, or as directed by your doctor.

Place 10 drops of this medication into the hand or directly onto the affected knee. Spread the medication evenly around the front, back, and sides of the knee. Repeat these steps until you have applied the prescribed dose to cover all surfaces of the knee. Repeat on the other knee if directed to do so by your doctor. Let the medication dry for several minutes. Do not use any other medication on the treated skin area. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions on how to use this medication.

Be sure to wash your hands before and after applying the medication. Avoid getting this medication in the eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not apply this medication to open wounds, infected, or damaged skin. Do not bandage or tightly cover the treated area unless you are instructed to do so by your doctor.

It is important to use this medication regularly at evenly spaced intervals to get the most benefit from it. Use the exact dose prescribed by your doctor. Do not use it more often or for longer than prescribed. Do not use this medication for more than 3 months at a time unless directed by your doctor.

Inform your doctor if your condition worsens.