Diclofenac gel
Diclofenac diethylamine 1.16% w/w (topical)
An NSAID you rub on instead of swallowing — pain relief where it hurts, with less stomach risk.
Educational reference only — not medical advice. *Doses shown are typical adult label doses. Read the pack, and confirm with a doctor or pharmacist — especially for children, pregnancy, the elderly, or any chronic condition.
What it's for
Uses
Why it earns its place
Benefits
- Acts locally — far less of the drug reaches your stomach and kidneys
- Good first option for localised pain before reaching for tablets
- Easy to combine with rest and ice/heat therapy
The honest column
Side effects
Common — usually settle
- Mild itching or redness where applied
- Dry skin at the site
- Increased sun-sensitivity of treated skin
Stop & see a doctor
- Widespread rash or blistering — stop and see a doctor
- Wheezing or breathlessness after use — NSAID sensitivity
Before you take it
Cautions & interactions
- Not on broken, infected or eczema-affected skin
- Wash hands after applying; keep away from eyes and mouth
- Don't stack with full-dose oral NSAIDs without asking a doctor
- Cover from direct sun — treated skin burns faster
On the shelf
Brands in India & where to buy
Prices are indicative MRPs for the listed pack sizes and change often — always verify on the pharmacy listing or pack. Links open marketplace searches; Naked Compound has no sponsorship or affiliate arrangement with any brand listed. Brand names are examples of what's commonly stocked, not endorsements.
When to skip self-medication
Fever beyond 3 days, blood anywhere it shouldn't be, chest pain or breathlessness, severe abdominal pain, a child under 6, pregnancy, or symptoms bouncing back within a week — any of these means see a doctor the same day instead of reaching for this pack.
Read this before you reach for anything
This page is an educational reference, not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a prescription. Doses shown are typical adult label doses for short-term self-care. Children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, the elderly, and anyone with chronic conditions or on regular medication should check with a doctor or pharmacist first. If symptoms are severe, unusual, or match any red flag above, skip the self-medication and see a doctor. Read how we work in our methodology.