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Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain)

Diclofenac topical gel is a prescription anti-inflammatory applied directly to the skin to relieve osteoarthritis pain in the knees and hands.

Brand names PennsaidVoltaren Arthritis PainSurpass Anti-InflammatoryZorvolexLicart +8 more
Drug class Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug
Rx
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS
Reviewed by Last reviewed Jul 10, 2026 Content updated Oct 5, 2026
🧬 Where this information comes from Click to expand

The clinical label records used on this page are FDA-filed Structured Product Labeling (SPL) retrieved through openFDA. We identified 1 clinical label set within the page’s selected clinical scope after exact ingredient or ingredient-combination matching and applicable route/form matching. Forms, routes, brands, labelers, strengths, and NDC product-record counts are built separately from matching FDA National Drug Code Directory records. The linked DailyMed document is a representative official source for verification, not the page’s only clinical source. View the linked label on DailyMed →

✓No current FDA shortage listed · checked Oct 6, 2026 🚨Recall on record · 3
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS
The Pharmacist’s Take By · Clinical pharmacist · Written

Diclofenac gel is a prescription NSAID (anti-inflammatory) rubbed onto osteoarthritic knees and hands, where it blocks the COX enzyme that makes prostaglandins (the chemicals behind pain and swelling), and it is a common first choice for those joints because far less drug reaches the bloodstream than with NSAIDs taken by mouth. Most people tolerate it well, and side effects usually stay on the skin as redness, itching, dryness or a rash where it is applied. It still carries the boxed warning all NSAIDs share for heart attack, stroke and stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal, so use the smallest amount that helps for the shortest time.

Clinical pearls

  • Measure each dose on the dosing card in the box, and wait at least an hour before washing treated hands.
  • It is meant for knees and hands, and it has not been studied for the hip, shoulder or spine.
  • Tell every prescriber you use it, since it adds bleeding risk with warfarin or aspirin and can raise lithium levels.
  • If you take a water pill or an ACE inhibitor, your kidney function should be checked while using this gel.
How we write & review this content — our editorial policy →
⚠️ FDA Boxed Warning — the FDA’s strongest safety alert ▾

This medication carries a serious FDA boxed warning — the strongest warning the FDA can require.

Heart risk: NSAIDs, including this gel, can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, which can be fatal. This risk may increase the longer you use it. People who already have heart disease are most at risk. This medication must not be used around the time of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) heart surgery.

Stomach and intestinal risk: This gel can cause serious bleeding, ulcers, or tears in the stomach or intestines that can also be fatal — and may happen without any warning signs. Older adults face a higher risk of these serious gut problems. Watch for stomach pain, black or tarry stools, or vomiting blood, and get medical help right away if any of these occur.

Read the full warning on DailyMed →
How you get itPrescription only
Earliest FDA record1988
FDA label last updatedNov 1, 2019
FDA’s strongest warning (boxed)Yes, read the warning

Patient information guide A plain-language walkthrough of Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain), written from its FDA label.

What Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) is used for

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Diclofenac topical gel is used to relieve joint pain caused by osteoarthritis in areas that can be reached through the skin.

  • Knees — the most commonly treated joint
  • Hands (including fingers, palm, and back of the hand)
  • Wrists
  • Ankles and feet
  • Elbows

Not studied or recommended for the spine, hip, or shoulder.

How Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) works

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Diclofenac is an NSAID that works by blocking an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX). This enzyme is a key step in your body's production of prostaglandins — chemicals that signal pain, promote swelling, and drive inflammation. By blocking COX at the site where you apply the gel, diclofenac reduces those pain and inflammation signals locally in the joint.

Because the gel is applied to the skin rather than swallowed, much less of the drug reaches your bloodstream compared to an oral NSAID — roughly 17 times less with typical use on one knee. This local action is a key reason the topical form is used for accessible joints.

Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) dosage

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Apply the gel to the affected joint four times daily, gently massaging it into the entire area. Use the dosing card included in the box to measure the right amount each time — lower-extremity joints like the knee get a larger measured dose, and upper-extremity joints like the wrist or hand get a smaller one.

  • Do not exceed the daily limit for any single joint
  • Do not exceed the total daily limit across all treated joints
  • If treating your hands, wait at least one hour before washing them
  • Rinse and dry the dosing card after each use

Always follow your prescriber's specific instructions. This medication does not need to be taken with food since it is not swallowed.

Dosing details from the FDA-approved label

From the Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescribing information (“Dosage and Administration”). Doses are set by your prescriber for your product, condition, kidney function and age — never change a dose on your own.

Total dose should not exceed 32 g per day, over all affected joints.

Read the label’s full dosing text

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Total dose should not exceed 32 g per day, over all affected joints. ( 2.3 ) Diclofenac sodium topical gel should be measured onto the enclosed dosing card to the appropriate 2 g or 4 g designation. ( 2 ) • Lower extremities: Apply the gel (4 g) to the affected area 4 times daily. Do not apply more than 16 g daily to any one affected joint of the lower extremities. ( 2.2 ) • Upper extremities: Apply the gel (2 g) to the affected area 4 times daily. Do not apply more than 8 g daily to any one affected joint of the upper extremities. ( 2.3 ) 2.1 Dosing Card [See the patient Instructions for Use] The dosing card can be found attached to the inside of the carton. The proper amount of diclofenac sodium topical gel should be measured using the dosing card supplied in the drug product carton. The dosing card is made of clear polypropylene. The dosing card should be used for each application of drug product. The gel should be applied within the rectangle area of the dosing card up to the 2 gram or 4 gram line (2 g for each elbow, wrist, or hand, and 4 g for each knee, ankle, or foot). The 2 g line is 2.25 inches long. The 4 g line is 4.5 inches long. The dosing card containing diclofenac sodium topical gel can be used to apply the gel. The hands should then be used to gently rub the gel into the skin. After using the dosing card, hold with fingertips, rinse, and dry. If treatment site is the hands, patients should wait at least one (1) hour to wash their hands. 2.2 Lower extremities, including the knees, ankles, and feet Apply the gel (4 g) to the affected foot or knee or ankle, 4 times daily. Diclofenac sodium topical gel should be gently massaged into the skin ensuring application to the entire affected foot, or knee or ankle. The entire foot includes the sole, top of the foot and the toes. Do not apply more than 16 g daily to any single joint of the lower extremities. 2.3 Upper extremities including the elbows, wrists, and hands Apply the gel (2 g) to the affected hand or elbow or wrist, 4 times daily. Diclofenac sodium topical gel should be gently massaged into the skin ensuring application to the entire affected hand or elbow or wrist. The entire hand includes the palm, back of the hands, and the fingers. Do not apply more than 8 g daily to any single joint of the upper extremities.

Excerpted — the section continues on the label. Read the full Dosage and Administration section on DailyMed →

Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) side effects

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The most common side effects are reactions right where you apply the gel.

Common side effects

  • Skin irritation or dermatitis at the application site
  • Redness or rash where the gel is applied
  • Dry or scaly skin at the treated area
  • Itching at the application site
  • Skin discoloration at the treated area

When to get medical help

  • Chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or slurred speech — signs of a possible heart attack or stroke
  • Black, tarry, or bloody stools, or vomiting blood — signs of stomach or intestinal bleeding
  • Sudden severe skin reactions such as blistering, peeling, or a spreading rash — stop use immediately
  • Signs of a severe allergic reaction: swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, hives
  • Unusual weight gain, swelling in the legs or ankles, or decreased urination — possible kidney or heart problems
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, or upper right belly pain — possible liver problems
  • Significant rise in blood pressure

More serious reactions — such as stomach bleeding, chest pain, signs of stroke, severe skin reactions like blistering or peeling, or signs of allergic reaction (throat swelling, trouble breathing) — are less common but require immediate medical attention. Stop using the gel and call your doctor or 911 right away if any of these occur.

Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) warnings and precautions

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  • Heart attack and stroke: All NSAIDs, including this gel, can raise the risk of serious and potentially fatal cardiovascular events. The risk may increase with duration of use. Use the lowest effective amount for the shortest time, especially if you have heart disease or risk factors for it.
  • Stomach and intestinal bleeding: Can occur without warning at any time during treatment and can be fatal. Older adults are especially vulnerable. Watch for dark or bloody stools, stomach pain, or vomiting blood.
  • Liver effects: Liver enzyme levels may rise during treatment. Stop using and contact your doctor if you develop jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes) or unexplained abdominal pain.
  • Kidney effects: Long-term use can harm the kidneys. Higher risk in older adults, people with kidney or heart problems, and those taking diuretics or ACE inhibitors.
  • High blood pressure and fluid retention: Monitor blood pressure during use. Stop use if significant swelling or fluid retention develops.
  • Severe skin reactions: Rare but potentially fatal skin conditions (such as Stevens-Johnson Syndrome) can occur. Discontinue immediately if a rash or skin reaction develops.
  • Severe allergic reactions: Can occur even without a prior reaction to the drug. Stop use immediately and get emergency help if signs of anaphylaxis appear.

Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) interactions

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Diclofenac topical gel can interact with several common medications, raising the risk of serious side effects.

  • Aspirin: Using both together is generally not recommended — it can increase the risk of GI bleeding and other adverse effects.
  • Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin): The combination significantly raises the risk of serious stomach or intestinal bleeding.
  • ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril): Diclofenac may reduce their blood-pressure-lowering effect.
  • Diuretics (water pills, e.g., furosemide, thiazides): Diclofenac may weaken their effect and increase the risk of kidney problems; kidney function should be watched closely.
  • Lithium: Diclofenac can raise lithium blood levels, increasing the risk of lithium toxicity — watch for signs like tremor, confusion, or nausea.
  • Methotrexate: Diclofenac may increase methotrexate's toxicity; careful monitoring is needed.
  • Cyclosporine: Caution is advised when used together due to potential interaction.

Interactions listed in the FDA-approved label

From the Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescribing information (“Drug Interactions”): what the manufacturer studied or reported to the FDA.

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS. Concomitant administration of diclofenac and aspirin is not generally recommended because of the potential of increased adverse effects including increased GI bleeding.

Read the label’s full interactions text

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS • Concomitant administration of diclofenac and aspirin is not generally recommended because of the potential of increased adverse effects including increased GI bleeding. ( 7.1 ) • Concomitant use of anticoagulants and diclofenac have a risk of serious GI bleeding higher than users of either drug alone. ( 7.2 ) 7.1 Aspirin When diclofenac is administered with aspirin, the binding of diclofenac to protein is reduced, although the clearance of free diclofenac is not altered. The clinical significance of this interaction is not known; however, as with other NSAIDs, concomitant administration of diclofenac and aspirin is not generally recommended because of the potential of increased adverse effects. 7.2 Anticoagulants The effects of anticoagulants such as warfarin and NSAIDs on GI bleeding are synergistic, such that users of both drugs together have a risk of serious GI bleeding higher than users of either drug alone. 7.3 ACE-Inhibitors NSAIDs may diminish the antihypertensive effect of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. This interaction should be given consideration in patients taking NSAIDs concomitantly with ACE-inhibitors. 7.4 Diuretics Clinical studies, as well as post-marketing observations, have shown that NSAIDs can reduce the natriuretic effect of furosemide and thiazides in some patients. The response has been attributed to inhibition of renal prostaglandin synthesis. During concomitant therapy with NSAIDs, the patient should be observed closely for signs of renal failure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)] , as well as to assure diuretic efficacy. 7.5 Lithium NSAIDs have produced an elevation of plasma lithium levels and a reduction in renal lithium clearance. The mean minimum lithium concentration increased 15% and the renal clearance was decreased by approximately 20%. These effects have been attributed to inhibition of renal prostaglandin synthesis by the NSAID.

Excerpted — the section continues on the label. Read the full Drug Interactions section on DailyMed →

Not a complete list. The label covers the interactions the manufacturer studied or reported, and our own interaction database does not cover every medicine either. Bring your full medication list, including vitamins and herbal products, to your pharmacist.

Check Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) against a supplement or herb →

Before taking Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain)

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  • Allergy to diclofenac, aspirin, or any NSAID: Do not use — serious and potentially fatal allergic reactions have occurred.
  • Asthma or allergic reactions triggered by aspirin or NSAIDs: Do not use.
  • Recent or upcoming CABG (heart bypass) surgery: This medication is contraindicated around that surgery.
  • History of heart disease or risk factors (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking): Use with caution and use the lowest effective amount.
  • History of stomach ulcers or GI bleeding: Use with caution; inform your prescriber.
  • Kidney disease, liver disease, or heart failure: Use with caution; close monitoring needed.
  • Taking diuretics or ACE inhibitors: Kidney function should be monitored.
  • Pregnancy: Safety has not been established. Avoid in late pregnancy — it may cause premature closure of a vital blood vessel in the baby's heart. Discuss use in any trimester with your doctor.
  • Breastfeeding: Unknown if diclofenac passes into breast milk; discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before using.
  • Children: Safety and effectiveness in patients under 18 have not been established.
  • Older adults: At higher risk for serious GI events and kidney effects — use with extra caution.

Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) overdose

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If a large amount of this gel is accidentally swallowed, symptoms can include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain — and in serious cases, high blood pressure, kidney failure, or difficulty breathing. If accidental ingestion occurs, call Poison Control immediately at 1-800-222-1222 or go to the nearest emergency room. Do not induce vomiting unless directed to do so by medical personnel.

What Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) does in the body

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Diclofenac has three main effects in the body: it reduces inflammation, relieves pain (anti-nociception, meaning it lowers the body's pain-signaling activity), and reduces fever (antipyretic). These effects come from its ability to block the production of prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and prostacyclin — chemicals that play a central role in the body's pain and inflammatory responses. When applied to the skin, these effects are concentrated in the local tissues near the treated joint.

How your body processes Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain)

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Because this medication is applied to the skin rather than swallowed, the amount that reaches your bloodstream is dramatically lower than with oral diclofenac — on average about 17 times less with typical single-knee use. In practical terms, blood levels from the gel are a small fraction of what you'd get from taking diclofenac pills. This reduced systemic (whole-body) absorption is one of the key benefits of the topical form. Applying heat to the treated area before using the gel may affect how much is absorbed, so avoid heating pads or hot packs on the application site.

How to store Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain)

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Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Store the dosing card with your diclofenac sodium topical gel.

Written from the FDA-approved label with AI and reviewed by our pharmacy team. How we use AI →

Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain): pharmacist answers to common questions

Quick, plain-English answers to the questions patients ask most about Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) — the kind of thing our pharmacy team would talk through with you at the counter.

What exactly is this gel for — can I use it for any joint pain?

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This gel is specifically approved for osteoarthritis pain — the kind that comes from joint wear and tear over time. It works best on joints close to the skin's surface, like your knees, hands, wrists, ankles, and feet. It hasn't been tested on deeper joints like the hip, shoulder, or spine, so it's not recommended for those areas. If you're unsure whether your pain is from osteoarthritis, check with your doctor first.

How do I actually apply it — do I just squeeze some out?

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There's a dosing card in the box — use it every time to measure the right amount. Don't just squeeze from the tube and guess. Once you have the right amount on the card, use your hands to gently rub the gel into the entire affected joint. If you're treating your hands, wait at least an hour before washing them so the medication has time to soak in. Rinse the dosing card after each use and let it dry.

Is this safer than taking an NSAID pill since it's just on my skin?

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It does get a lot less of the drug into your bloodstream — roughly 17 times less than a typical oral NSAID dose for one knee. That's a real benefit. But you should know that the same serious risks that come with oral NSAIDs — heart, stroke, and stomach risks — still apply to this gel, even if the overall exposure is lower. It's not risk-free, which is why there's a strong warning on the label. Use it at the lowest amount that helps you for the shortest time needed.

What side effects should I actually expect, and what should make me call the doctor?

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The most common reaction is skin irritation right where you apply the gel — redness, itching, dryness, or a mild rash. That's worth mentioning to your doctor if it's bothersome, but it's not usually dangerous. What you do need to act on right away: chest pain, sudden weakness or slurred speech (possible stroke or heart attack), black or bloody stools or vomiting blood (GI bleeding), severe skin blistering or peeling, or any signs of a serious allergic reaction like throat swelling or difficulty breathing. Stop the gel and get medical help immediately if any of those happen.

I take a blood thinner — is it okay to use this gel?

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That's a really important question to raise with your prescriber before you start. Using diclofenac — even as a topical gel — alongside blood thinners like warfarin significantly raises the risk of serious stomach or intestinal bleeding. Your doctor may still decide the benefits outweigh the risks, but they need to know you're on a blood thinner so they can monitor you carefully. The same goes for aspirin — using both together is generally not recommended.

Can I use this if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

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Talk to your doctor before using this during pregnancy. The safety hasn't been established, and in late pregnancy it should be avoided because it may cause a problem with a blood vessel in your baby's heart. As for breastfeeding, it isn't known whether the drug passes into breast milk, so your doctor will need to weigh the benefits to you against the potential risk to your baby. Don't assume it's safe just because it's a gel — some of the drug does get absorbed into your body.

Is Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) available over the counter?

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No. Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) is a prescription medicine: every Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) product listed with the FDA is prescription only, so it is not sold over the counter. Your prescriber decides whether it is appropriate for you, and your pharmacist dispenses it.

When was Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) first available?

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The earliest FDA record we hold for Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) is from 1988: its first approval in Drugs@FDA or its earliest product listing in the NDC Directory, whichever is older. Many older medicines were in use before their first formal FDA approval, so this is the earliest date on record, not necessarily when Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) was first used.

Answers drafted from the FDA-approved label with AI and reviewed by our pharmacy team. How we use AI →

More about Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) on HelloPharmacist

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Detailed data & references for Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) Forms & strengths, pricing, billing codes, manufacturers, safety reports and sourcing — the data behind the page. Most people can stop here. Each section below opens on a tap.

Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) on the U.S. market: products, makers and brands

How Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) appears in the FDA’s National Drug Code Directory — including its dosage forms, strengths, brand names, manufacturers, and FDA-listed product records. These are directory records, not sales or prescription volume.

The FDA lists Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) products; the earliest marketing or approval year on record is 1988. Brand names on the directory include Pennsaid, Voltaren Arthritis Pain, Surpass Anti-Inflammatory and 10 more; the rest are generics.

1988
Earliest FDA record ⓘ

How widely Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) is used (Medicaid data)

A general measure of how commonly Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) is prescribed, based on Medicaid — one of the largest public drug programs. The figure below is prescriptions filled in Q1–Q4 2025, summed across every form and brand of the drug.

Think of this as a proxy for how widely Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) is used, drawn from freely available public data. Medicaid is just one program — these numbers don’t include Medicare, other government coverage, or commercial and cash-pay prescriptions, so real-world use is higher than what’s shown here.

4,673,607
Medicaid prescriptions filled (Q1–Q4 2025)
$142.3M gross Medicaid reimbursement (before mandatory rebates — net cost is lower)

How commonly is Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescribed? Of the 1,601 medications we measure, Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) ranks #44 by Medicaid prescriptions — more than 97% of them.

Where Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) ranks among the drugs we measure · Q1–Q4 2025 · neighbors ±5
Total prescriptions — #44 of 1,601
#39 Montelukast 5,399,653 Rx #40 Azithromycin 5,254,152 Rx #41 Loratadine 5,204,681 Rx #42 Buspirone 5,180,004 Rx #43 Aripiprazole 5,031,681 Rx #44 Diclofenac Topical (ar... 4,673,607 Rx #45 Diclofenac Topical (ac... 4,673,607 Rx #46 Diclofenac 4,673,607 Rx #47 Lamotrigine 4,467,083 Rx #48 Cyclobenzaprine 4,437,147 Rx #49 Triamcinolone Topical 4,329,207 Rx

Utilization by Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) product

Pick a product to see its own Medicaid numbers. Each chip is one clinical product — a specific strength & dosage form as defined by RxNorm — with brand-name and generic versions combined.

The 0.01 mg/mg topical gel is the most-dispensed Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) product — about 72% of these Medicaid prescriptions.

diclofenac sodium 0.01 MG/MG Topical Gel Most dispensed

3,387,260 Medicaid prescriptions (Q1–Q4 2025) 72% of Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescriptions shown $66.6M gross reimbursement (before rebates) ≈ $20 per prescription (gross)

Summed across the 23 of 255 listed NDC products with Medicaid activity — every brand and generic of this exact strength & form. RxNorm 855633

diclofenac sodium 75 MG Delayed Release Oral Tablet

733,469 Medicaid prescriptions (Q1–Q4 2025) 16% of Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescriptions shown $8.8M gross reimbursement (before rebates) ≈ $12 per prescription (gross)

Summed across the 27 of 346 listed NDC products with Medicaid activity — every brand and generic of this exact strength & form. RxNorm 855926

diclofenac sodium 50 MG Delayed Release Oral Tablet

232,998 Medicaid prescriptions (Q1–Q4 2025) 5% of Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescriptions shown $2.8M gross reimbursement (before rebates) ≈ $12 per prescription (gross)

Summed across the 19 of 217 listed NDC products with Medicaid activity — every brand and generic of this exact strength & form. RxNorm 855906

diclofenac sodium 20 MG/ML Topical Solution

61,370 Medicaid prescriptions (Q1–Q4 2025) 1% of Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescriptions shown $10.4M gross reimbursement (before rebates) ≈ $169 per prescription (gross)

Summed across the 8 of 39 listed NDC products with Medicaid activity — every brand and generic of this exact strength & form. RxNorm 1487074

diclofenac potassium 50 MG Oral Tablet

61,179 Medicaid prescriptions (Q1–Q4 2025) 1% of Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescriptions shown $907,855 gross reimbursement (before rebates) ≈ $15 per prescription (gross)

Summed across the 9 of 138 listed NDC products with Medicaid activity — every brand and generic of this exact strength & form. RxNorm 855942

diclofenac sodium 0.03 MG/MG Topical Gel

56,803 Medicaid prescriptions (Q1–Q4 2025) 1% of Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescriptions shown $2.8M gross reimbursement (before rebates) ≈ $50 per prescription (gross)

Summed across the 5 of 51 listed NDC products with Medicaid activity — every brand and generic of this exact strength & form. RxNorm 855642

diclofenac potassium 25 MG Oral Tablet

56,007 Medicaid prescriptions (Q1–Q4 2025) 1% of Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescriptions shown $41M gross reimbursement (before rebates) ≈ $732 per prescription (gross)

Summed across the 9 of 24 listed NDC products with Medicaid activity — every brand and generic of this exact strength & form. RxNorm 857702

24 HR diclofenac sodium 100 MG Extended Release Oral Tablet

23,967 Medicaid prescriptions (Q1–Q4 2025) <1% of Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescriptions shown $868,745 gross reimbursement (before rebates) ≈ $36 per prescription (gross)

Summed across the 4 of 119 listed NDC products with Medicaid activity — every brand and generic of this exact strength & form. RxNorm 855657

Twice-Daily diclofenac epolamine 0.013 MG/MG Medicated Patch

21,190 Medicaid prescriptions (Q1–Q4 2025) <1% of Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescriptions shown $6.3M gross reimbursement (before rebates) ≈ $299 per prescription (gross)

Summed across the 1 of 27 listed NDC products with Medicaid activity — every brand and generic of this exact strength & form. RxNorm 855626

diclofenac sodium 1 MG/ML Ophthalmic Solution

16,149 Medicaid prescriptions (Q1–Q4 2025) <1% of Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescriptions shown $267,199 gross reimbursement (before rebates) ≈ $17 per prescription (gross)

Summed across the 4 of 13 listed NDC products with Medicaid activity — every brand and generic of this exact strength & form. RxNorm 854801

diclofenac sodium 25 MG Delayed Release Oral Tablet

14,888 Medicaid prescriptions (Q1–Q4 2025) <1% of Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescriptions shown $739,658 gross reimbursement (before rebates) ≈ $50 per prescription (gross)

Summed across the 4 of 28 listed NDC products with Medicaid activity — every brand and generic of this exact strength & form. RxNorm 855664

diclofenac sodium 15 MG/ML Topical Solution

6,165 Medicaid prescriptions (Q1–Q4 2025) <1% of Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescriptions shown $194,157 gross reimbursement (before rebates) ≈ $31 per prescription (gross)

Summed across the 2 of 81 listed NDC products with Medicaid activity — every brand and generic of this exact strength & form. RxNorm 857700

diclofenac 25 MG Oral Capsule

1,081 Medicaid prescriptions (Q1–Q4 2025) <1% of Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescriptions shown $335,097 gross reimbursement (before rebates) ≈ $310 per prescription (gross)

Summed across the 4 of 17 listed NDC products with Medicaid activity — every brand and generic of this exact strength & form. RxNorm 858342

diclofenac potassium 50 MG Powder for Oral Solution

1,081 Medicaid prescriptions (Q1–Q4 2025) <1% of Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) prescriptions shown $263,456 gross reimbursement (before rebates) ≈ $244 per prescription (gross)

Summed across the 5 of 19 listed NDC products with Medicaid activity — every brand and generic of this exact strength & form. RxNorm 859063

Shares are of the Medicaid prescriptions shown here. Product grouping follows RxNorm (the National Library of Medicine’s drug terminology), so “one product” means one strength & dosage form regardless of manufacturer. Dollar figures are gross Medicaid reimbursement before mandatory rebates — rebates (often large, especially for brand-name drugs) are confidential, so actual net cost to Medicaid is lower than shown.

Source: Medicaid State Drug Utilization Data (CMS), aggregated by generic ingredient — summed across every NDC (all brands, strengths, salt forms and dosage forms) of Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain), and across all states and both fee-for-service and managed-care claims. A general popularity signal; it excludes Medicare, commercial insurance and cash prescriptions, so it is not total U.S. use. Based on the 124 of 1,374 listed Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) NDCs with Medicaid activity.

Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) recall history

A recall is when a specific batch of a medicine is pulled from the market — usually a manufacturing issue, not a problem with the drug itself. Class I is most serious, Class III least.

The FDA’s enforcement reports list 3 Diclofenac recalls since July 2021. All of them are still ongoing or began in the last six months. A recall names specific lots from one company, so check the lot number on your own bottle rather than assuming every product is affected; your pharmacist can check whether your supply came from an affected lot.

Ongoing Class II Jan 27, 2026 · SUN PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRIES INC
Failed Viscosity Specifications: Out of Specification (OOS) [slightly lower than the limit] result in viscosity for Diclofenac Sodium Gel, 3%.
  • Diclofenac Sodium, Topical Gel, 3%, 100 g tube, Rx only, Mfd. by: Taro Pharmaceuticals Inc., Brampton, Ontario, Canada L6T 1C1, Dist. by Taro Pharmaceuticals U.S.A., Inc., Hawthorne, NY 10532, NDC 51… Lots: Lot # AD92721, Exp Date: 3/31/2027. FDA record D-0342-2026 →
Ongoing Class III Dec 22, 2025 · Cipla USA, Inc.
Failed PH Specifications
  • Diclofenac Sodium Topical Gel, 1%, NET WT 100 g (3.53 oz), Manufactured by: DPT Laboratories, Ltd., 307 E Josephine Street, San Antonio, TX 78215. NDC: 76282-103-39 Lots: Batch XHBG; Exp. 08/31/2027 FDA record D-0291-2026 →
Ongoing Class II Jun 22, 2023 · ALEMBIC PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.
Defective Delivery System
  • Diclofenac Sodium Topical Solution USP, 2% w/w, 3.8 FL.OZ.(112 grams) bottles, Rx only, Manufactured for: Alembic Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Bedminster, NJ 07921, USA Manufactured by: Alembic Pharmaceutic… Lots: Lot #: 220151, 220152, 220153, Exp. Date 11/2024 FDA record D-0941-2023 →

Source: FDA enforcement (recall) reports, via openFDA; our copy was last updated Sep 24, 2026.

RxNorm Concept Web — From Ingredient to Every Form and Strength

This page starts with one ingredient concept (IN). The branches below show its dose-form concepts (SCDF), then the available clinical drug and strength concepts (SCD). Combination products remain separate concepts with their own pages.

Ingredient (IN) Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) RxCUI 3355 15 dose forms · 30 strengths
  1. Dose form (SCDF) Delayed Release Oral Capsule RxCUI 438955 No current FDA listing
    Clinical drug / strength (SCD) sodium 25 MG RxCUI 1234844 sodium 50 MG RxCUI 1234853
  2. Dose form (SCDF) Delayed Release Oral Tablet RxCUI 371794 No current FDA listing
    Clinical drug / strength (SCD) sodium 25 MG RxCUI 855664 sodium 50 MG RxCUI 855906 sodium 75 MG RxCUI 855926
  3. Dose form (SCDF) Extended Release Oral Capsule RxCUI 371793 No current FDA listing
    Clinical drug / strength (SCD) 24 HR diclofenac sodium 100 MG RxCUI 411846 24 HR diclofenac sodium 75 MG RxCUI 411848
  4. Dose form (SCDF) Extended Release Oral Tablet RxCUI 371799 No current FDA listing
    Clinical drug / strength (SCD) sodium 75 MG RxCUI 857713 24 HR diclofenac sodium 100 MG RxCUI 855657
  5. Dose form (SCDF) Injectable Solution RxCUI 371795 No current FDA listing
    Clinical drug / strength (SCD) sodium 25 MG/ML RxCUI 857705
  7. Dose form (SCDF) Ophthalmic Solution RxCUI 378986 No current FDA listing
    Clinical drug / strength (SCD) sodium 1 MG/ML RxCUI 854801
  8. Dose form (SCDF) Oral Capsule RxCUI 376352 No current FDA listing
    Clinical drug / strength (SCD) 18 MG RxCUI 1442116 25 MG RxCUI 858342 35 MG RxCUI 1442128
  9. Dose form (SCDF) Oral Solution RxCUI 393225 No current FDA listing
    Clinical drug / strength (SCD) sodium 0.25 MG/ML RxCUI 857689
  10. Dose form (SCDF) Oral Tablet RxCUI 371798 No current FDA listing
    Clinical drug / strength (SCD) potassium 25 MG RxCUI 857702 potassium 50 MG RxCUI 855942
  11. Dose form (SCDF) Powder for Oral Solution RxCUI 1856554 No current FDA listing
    Clinical drug / strength (SCD) potassium 50 MG RxCUI 859063
  12. Dose form (SCDF) Rectal Suppository RxCUI 371796 No current FDA listing
    Clinical drug / strength (SCD) sodium 100 MG RxCUI 857696 sodium 12.5 MG RxCUI 857698 sodium 25 MG RxCUI 857703 sodium 50 MG RxCUI 857709
  13. Dose form (SCDF) Topical Cream RxCUI 438948 No current FDA listing
    Clinical drug / strength (SCD) sodium 10 MG/ML RxCUI 1043479
  15. Dose form (SCDF) Topical Solution RxCUI 393139 No current FDA listing
    Clinical drug / strength (SCD) sodium 15 MG/ML RxCUI 857700 sodium 20 MG/ML RxCUI 1487074

Look up RxCUI 3355 in the RxCUI Atlas →

RxNorm is the U.S. National Library of Medicine’s normalized drug vocabulary. Its concept hierarchy can include forms that are not currently marketed; the status on each branch compares that concept with current FDA listings. RxCUIs identify vocabulary concepts, not individual packages or manufacturers.

Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) brand names

Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) is sold under 13 brand names in the FDA directory — Pennsaid, Voltaren Arthritis Pain, Surpass Anti-Inflammatory, Zorvolex and others. A brand and its generic contain the same active ingredient; the brand name belongs to one company's product.

Pennsaid Voltaren Arthritis Pain Surpass Anti-Inflammatory Zorvolex Licart Aleve Arthritis Pain Lofena Xiclo Flector Voltaren Cataflam Zipsor Cambia

Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) drug class (RxNorm)

Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) belongs to the Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug class.

Pharmacologic class Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug
Drug family (ATC) Other dermatologicals, Acetic acid derivatives and related substances, Antiinflammatory preparations, non-steroids for topical use
How it works Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors

Classified by RxNorm RxClass — the U.S. National Library of Medicine's standardized drug-classification service (Established Pharmacologic Class from the FDA, the ATC drug family from the WHO, and mechanism of action). Reference only, not medical advice.

Sources for this Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) page

Core label, product, RxNorm, safety, and utilization data on this page come from the sources identified below. AI-written, editorial, and licensed sections are labeled separately.

📄
FDA-filed drug labels (SPL) Uses, dosing, warnings & side effects from SPL records retrieved through openFDA; the linked representative set can be verified on DailyMed. ✓ Linked label effective Nov 1, 2019
🏭
Forms, brands & labelersAggregated from ingredient-matched FDA National Drug Code Directory product records for Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain).
📈
Real-world reportsThe FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS), served through openFDA.
🚨
Recalls & shortagesopenFDA drug-enforcement reports and the FDA drug-shortage database.
🧾 Clinical label set — FDA-filed SPL labels retained for Diclofenac Topical (arthritis pain) after exact ingredient or ingredient-combination matching and applicable route/form matching
Clinical labels in scope
1
Linked representative label ⓘ
Proficient Rx LP
Linked label effective
Nov 1, 2019
Composite sections available
24
Linked SPL Set ID
a7447467-79e0-436e-a273-d1ddd06169cf
Linked SPL Document ID
b7cca998-edc7-40b5-bc62-b789921ad6c8
Open the linked representative label on DailyMed ↗
NDC package records associated with this linked SPL 1

How this page is built

HelloPharmacist combines public FDA and NLM records and does not author the underlying clinical facts. The plain-language sections are written with AI from the FDA-approved label text and reviewed by our pharmacy team before publication. Proficient Rx LP is the representative DailyMed label linked for verification and dates. This is general education, not medical advice: always talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your own medicines. How we build and review drug pages →