Solaraze (Diclofenac Sodium) is a prescription medication used to treat actinic keratoses (AK). AK is a common pre-cancerous condition caused by overexposure to sunlight. It appears as rough, scaly patches or bumps on the skin. Treating actinic keratoses is essential because the lesions can potentially develop into skin cancer. The active ingredient in Solaraze is Diclofenac Sodium. Diclofenac Sodium belongs to a class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. It works by blocking certain substances in the body (prostaglandins) that cause pain, inflammation, and skin changes involved in actinic keratoses.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Solaraze from the United Kingdom manufactured by Almirall in the strength of 50 gm gel. The generic Diclofenac Sodium 3% comes from Canada.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Solaraze. The most common side effects of Solaraze may include the following:
• Burning;
• Dryness;
• Itching;
• Redness;
• Skin irritation
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Severe skin burning;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Signs of anemia, including pale skin, unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, cold hands and feet;
• Signs of kidney problems, including swelling, urinating less, rapid weight gain, shortness of breath
These are not all of Solaraze's side effects. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Solaraze if you are allergic to Diclofenac Sodium or any ingredient in Solaraze. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• Have a history of heartburn, stomach ulcers, or bleeding in your stomach or intestines;
• Have a history of skin conditions;
• Have asthma;
• Have had or about to have a coronary artery bypass graft;
• Have high blood pressure;
• Have kidney disease
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Solaraze and other medicines, such as warfarin, dexamethasone, clopidogrel, losartan, propranolol, lanoxin, cyclosporine, aspirin, etc. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is unknown if this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Discuss the benefits and risks of using this medicine in pregnancy with your doctor. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. It is unknown whether topical Diclofenac Sodium passes into breast milk or if it may harm a nursing infant. Discuss the benefits and risks of using this medicine when breastfeeding with your doctor.
Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes. Solaraze comes as a gel for topical use only. Apply a thin layer of the gel to the affected skin area as directed by your doctor. Your dosage will depend on the size of the area being treated. Do not cover the treated area with bandages or dressings unless your doctor tells you to. Avoid contact with your eyes and mucous membranes. If the medicine gets into these areas, wash with water. Wash your hands with water after applying the gel. Solaraze can increase your sensitivity to the sun. Avoid exposure to the sun, sunlamps, and tanning beds. Wear sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors. After applying topical Diclofenac Sodium, wait for the area to dry completely before wearing clothing or applying other products. Do not use this medicine for more than 21 days without talking to your doctor. Do not share Solaraze with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. Store this drug at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.