Medicine Highlights
| Uses | 1. To treat pain and swelling in muscles or joints 2. To treat pain from sports injuries like sprains or strains 3. To treat back pain or lower back pain 4. To treat pain in the hands, knees, or ankles due to stiffness or swelling 5. To treat mild pain after physical activity or overuse of muscles |
| Common Side Effects | 1. Redness or itching at the place where the gel is applied 2. Mild burning or stinging on the skin 3. Dry or flaky skin |
| Additional Information | 1. Apply only to the affected area of the skin, not on broken or infected skin. 2. Wash your hands before and after applying the gel. 3. Do not cover the area with tight bandages unless the doctor says so. 4. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, or private areas. |
| Storage | 1- The medicine should be stored at room temperature 2- Keep away from sunlight and moisture 3- Keep away from the reach of children |
| How to Take This Medicine | This medicine is meant to be used on the skin only. |
Diclofenac Uses
Diclofenac is an pain-relief medicine belonging to the category of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is useful for the following indications:
- Sore or stiff muscles
- Pain from sprains or strains
- Joint pain from aging (osteoarthritis)
- Back pain
- Pain in hands, knees, or ankles
- Mild aches after exercise or physical activity
Directions for use
- Wash and dry the affected area gently.
- Apply a thin layer of diclofenac gel and massage it lightly until absorbed.
- Use it 2–3 times a day or as directed by your doctor.
- Wash your hands after application.
Diclofenac side effects
More Common
- Redness or itching at the place where the gel is applied
- Mild burning or stinging on the skin
- Dry or flaky skin
Less Common
- Rash or hives
- Swelling at the application site
- Blisters or skin peeling
- Rare allergic reaction (severe itching, swelling, difficulty breathing)
How Diclofenac works
Diclofenac is a medicine that helps reduce pain and swelling in the body. When you get an injury, sore muscles, or stiff joints, your body produces chemicals that cause inflammation and discomfort. Diclofenac blocks these chemicals, which help reduce swelling, ease stiffness, and relieve pain. Applied on the skin as a gel, it works directly on the affected area, giving targeted relief without affecting the whole body as much as oral medicines.
Safety Measures and Warning
📌 Allergy/Hypersensitivity
If you are allergic to this medicine or similar painkillers, using the gel can trigger serious allergic reactions, such as rashes, itching, swelling, or even trouble breathing.
📌 Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers should only use it if a doctor confirms it is safe; it should generally be avoided in the last trimester of pregnancy.
📌 Liver and Kidney Disease
Even though the gel is applied to the skin, a small amount can enter the bloodstream. For people with serious liver or kidney issues, this may cause complications or worsen their condition.
📌 Infants and Young Children
The safety of Diclofenac gel in young children has not been fully studied. Using it without guidance can increase the risk of side effects.
📌 Broken, Irritated, or Infected Skin
The gel should only be used on healthy skin. Applying it on cuts, wounds, or infected areas can worsen irritation, delay healing, or cause infection.
Diclofenac Interaction with Other Medicines
Avoid taking Diclofenac with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases and it could be fatal:
Diclofenac Interaction with Food Product
Diclofenac gel is applied on the skin, so it has minimal absorption into the blood. Because of this, food usually does not affect its action. There’s no need to change your diet while using the gel.
Storage
- Store the medicine at room temperature
- Keep away from sunlight and moisture
- Keep out of reach of children
Diclofenac Chemical Structure
IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name
2-[2-(2,6-dichloroanilino)phenyl]acetic acid
Intake routine/cycle
📌 Daily dose
Take Diclofenac exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor.
📌 Missed Dose
If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage.
📌 Overdose
Do not apply more than the recommended amount of diclofenac gel on your skin, as using too much can increase the risk of side effects like skin irritation, redness, burning, or rash. If severe reactions such as swelling, blistering, or difficulty breathing occur, stop using it and seek medical attention immediately.
Diclofenac Summary
Diclofenac 1.16% gel is a medicine applied on the skin to relieve localized pain and swelling. It is used for sore or stiff muscles, sprains or strains, joint pain from aging or wear-and-tear, back pain, and mild aches after exercise or activity. The gel works by reducing chemicals in the body that cause pain and inflammation, helping the affected area feel more comfortable. Common side effects include redness, itching, burning, or dry skin where it is applied. Rarely, it can cause rash, swelling, blisters, or an allergic reaction. The gel should only be applied on skin and applying it on broken skin can cause irritation, stinging, or slow healing, and people allergic to diclofenac, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or those with serious liver or kidney problems should use it only under a doctor’s advice. Avoid using too much gel, and if severe reactions like swelling, blistering, or difficulty breathing occur, stop use and seek medical attention immediately. Store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
FAQ’s
1. What is Diclofenac 1.16% gel used for?
➡️ Diclofenac gel is used on the skin to relieve pain and swelling. It helps with sore or stiff muscles, sprains or strains, joint pain from aging or wear-and-tear, back pain, and mild aches after exercise or activity.
2. What are the side effects of Diclofenac gel?
➡️ Diclofenac gel is usually safe, but some people may get redness, itching, burning, or dry skin where it is applied. Rarely, it can cause rash, swelling, blisters, or an allergic reaction. If severe reactions like swelling, blistering, or trouble breathing happen, stop using it and see a doctor immediately.
3. What is the price of diclofenac 1.16% gel?
➡️ Diclofenac 1.16% gel price at SayaCare is about 28 rupees, at SayaCare we provide test report with each medicine. Also, at SayaCare we provide you with up to 80% less cost than the market.
4. How does Diclofenac gel help relieve pain?
➡️ Diclofenac gel works by reducing chemicals in the body that cause pain and swelling. When applied to sore muscles, stiff joints, or injured areas, it helps ease discomfort, reduces swelling, and makes the area feel more comfortable.
Reference
- Diclofenac Topical Dosage Guide + Max Dose, Adjustments [Internet]. Drugs.com. Available from
- Mayo Clinic. Diclofenac (Topical Application Route) Description and Brand Names – Mayo Clinic [Internet]. Mayoclinic.org. 2019. Available from
- Diclofenac: Side Effects, Dosage, Uses, and More [Internet]. Healthline. 2020. Available from
- Diclofenac 1.16 % gel: Uses, Side Effects, Price | Generic | SayaCare [Internet]. Sayacare.in. 2025 [cited 2025 Sep 1]. Available from
