Diclofenac Topical Pain Cream

Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). When a prescriber wants a topical compounded preparation, the prescription should specify the strength, base, quantity, directions, and treatment plan.

Common compounded strengths include 6%, 8%, and 10% in a selected topical base — prescriptions are often written in shorthand like "diclo 10%" or "diclofenac 10% in PLO". The pharmacy confirms current preparation timing, beyond-use date, and storage when the prescription is received.

Diclofenac Topical Cream is most commonly used for pain and inflammation in joints due to arthritis. It can also be used for other conditions involving inflammation, including:

• Osteoarthritis pain
• Tendinitis and bursitis
• Muscle strains and sprains
• Localized soft tissue inflammation

Diclofenac works by blocking cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2), which are involved in the production of prostaglandins — chemical messengers that trigger the body's inflammatory response.

A topical formulation is applied to a localized area selected by the prescriber. Patients should still tell the pharmacist about kidney disease, stomach ulcers, blood thinners, blood pressure medications, other NSAIDs, pregnancy, or allergies before using an NSAID-containing preparation.

Because diclofenac cream is applied topically, very little is absorbed into the bloodstream. This significantly reduces the risk of systemic side effects commonly associated with oral NSAIDs (such as kidney or blood pressure concerns).

Local side effects may include:

• Redness at the application site
• Itching or swelling
• Numbness, burning, or tingling

Rare systemic effects:

• Fatigue, nausea, lightheadedness, or dizziness

If you experience any side effects, contact your physician or pharmacist.

This cream is for external use only.

1. Wash your hands before applying. Consider wearing a glove.
2. Pump or scoop the prescribed amount onto the affected area.
3. Rub gently until the cream is no longer visible, then continue rubbing gently for an additional 60 seconds to aid penetration.
4. Do not apply heavy pressure, as this can increase pain.
5. Replace the cap or lid.
6. Wash hands thoroughly after applying.
7. Avoid getting the area wet for at least 1 hour after application.
8. An occlusive dressing or bandage is not required.

Voltaren Emulgel, sold without a prescription in Canada, contains diclofenac at 1.16% (regular) or 2.32% (Extra Strength). Compounded prescriptions are commonly written at 6%, 8%, or 10% — a substantially higher concentration that is prescription-only, in a base the prescriber selects.

Whether a higher concentration belongs in your care plan is your prescriber's call. If an over-the-counter product has not been enough, that is a conversation to have with them — the pharmacy can supply the prescriber template below.

• Store at room temperature
• Avoid extreme hot or cold temperatures
• Keep away from bright light and excessive moisture
• If you notice discoloration or separation, contact the pharmacy
• Check the beyond-use date on the label — compounded creams are dated shorter than manufactured products because they are prepared fresh per prescription

Price depends on the strength, base, and quantity prescribed — the pharmacy can quote a specific prescription before it is filled. Many private drug plans cover compounded prescriptions when the formula meets the plan's rules, and eligible costs can count toward the Manitoba Pharmacare deductible.

A printable common pain preparations template lists diclofenac strengths, base options, combination ingredients, and directions fields. Fast-moving strengths are batched and often available same day.

For a combination or base not on the template, call the compounding lab to discuss what can be prepared.