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Diclofenac (di-KLO-fen-ack) belongs to the family of medicines called antineoplastics. Antineoplastics are used to treat cancer by killing cancer cells. When applied to the skin, Diclofenac is used to treat actinic keratosis, a skin problem that may be cancer or may become cancerous if not treated. The exact way that topical Diclofenac helps this condition is unknown. Diclofenac is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms: Topical Gel (U. S)
Diclofenac is used to relieve the pain, tenderness, inflammation (swelling), and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. Immediate-release (short-acting) Diclofenac (Cataflam) is also used to treat painful menstrual periods and pain from other causes. Diclofenac is in a class of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs). It works by stopping the body's production of a substance that causes pain and inflammation. Diclofenac comes as a tablet (Cataflam), a delayed-release tablet (Voltaren), and an extended-release (long-acting) tablet (Voltaren-XR) to take by mouth. The regular and delayed-release tablets are usually taken two to four times a day. The extended-release tablet is usually taken once or twice a day. To help you remember to take Diclofenac, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Diclofenac exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Brand names: - Diclofenac - Solaraze |