Solaraze
® Gel (
diclofenac gel) is a prescription medication approved to treat actinic keratosis (AK). Actinic keratoses are dry, scaly precancerous patches on the skin.
Solaraze Gel is made by PharmaDerm, a division of Nycomed US, Inc.
How Does Solaraze Gel Work?
Diclofenac, the active ingredient in Solaraze Gel, belongs to a group of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (
NSAIDs). Like other NSAIDs, it works by blocking a specific enzyme known as cyclooxygenase (COX) and blocking the production of various inflammatory substances in the body.
It is not entirely clear why Solaraze works to treat actinic keratosis lesions. However, it is thought that by inhibiting the COX enzymes, Solaraze may encourage death of the precancerous cells.
This medication has been thoroughly evaluated in clinical studies. These studies compared Solaraze Gel to a placebo (a gel that does not contain any active ingredient). These studies demonstrated that Solaraze Gel was significantly better than the placebo for eliminating actinic keratoses.
When and How to Take Solaraze Gel
Some general considerations include the following:
- Solaraze Gel is usually applied to the skin twice a day for 60 to 90 days. It should be noted that continued improvement may occur for up to 30 days after the medication is stopped.
- Do not apply a bandage or dressing over the gel.
- Wash your hands after applying the gel, unless you are treating your hands.
- Do not use lotions, cosmetics, insect repellants, or any other products on the skin where you apply the gel.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Make sure to use it for the full 60 or 90 days that your healthcare provider recommends.
There is only one standard dose of Solaraze, although the length of time the medication is used may vary from 60 to 90 days. As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Side Effects
As with any medicine, Solaraze Gel may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
In studies, some of the most common side effects of this medication included:
(Click Solaraze Gel Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Using It?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Solaraze Gel if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Serious effects are most likely to occur if an overdose of this medication is accidentally ingested by mouth, rather than applied to the skin.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Solaraze Gel?
If you forget to take your dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, simply skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose of the medication.
Solaraze Gel should be stored at room temperature (be sure to avoid freezing it). Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children and pets.
Solaraze Gel comes in one strength -- 3 percent (30 mg of
diclofenac sodium per gram of gel).
Is There a Generic Version of Solaraze Gel?
Currently, Solaraze Gel is not available in generic form.
