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Home Topics A–Z Diclofenac gel for actinic keratoses
Author: Anoma Ranaweera, Medical Writer, Auckland, New Zealand; DermNet Editor-in-Chief: Dr Amanda Oakley, Dermatologist, Hamilton, New Zealand. July 2015.
Topical 3% diclofenac gel in 2.5% hyaluronic acid (Solaraze®, Bioglan Pharma, Florida USA) is used as a field treatment for actinic keratoses (AKs). It is available in the US, Canada and several countries in the European Union, but it is not marketed in New Zealand (2015).
The active ingredient of the gel, diclofenac sodium, is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). NSAIDs provide anti-inflammatory and anti-neoplastic (anti-cancer) benefits.
Treatment is usually undertaken during the winter months. Diclofenac gel is only for use on the skin and contact with eyes should be avoided.
Keratoses may continue to improve for up to 30 days after stopping treatment. Any lesions that do not respond to treatment should be re-evaluated.
Diclofenac sodium gel should not be used or should be used with caution by patients with any of the following conditions:
Anaphylactoid reactions may occur in patients without prior exposure to diclofenac.
Generally, adverse events have been mild-to-moderate in severity. The most common reported adverse events (>1%) are application site reactions, including itch, dry skin, redness and contact dermatitis
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