FDA Label for Nudiclo Solupak

View Indications, Usage & Precautions

Nudiclo Solupak Product Label

The following document was submitted to the FDA by the labeler of this product Nucare Pharmaceuticals,inc.. The document includes published materials associated whith this product with the essential scientific information about this product as well as other prescribing information. Product labels may durg indications and usage, generic names, contraindications, active ingredients, strength dosage, routes of administration, appearance, warnings, inactive ingredients, etc.

1. Indications And Usage



Diclofenac sodium topical solution is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) indicated for the treatment of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee(s).


2.1 General Instructions



Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals [ see Warning and Precautions (5.2)].

For the relief of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee(s), the recommended dose is 40 drops per knee, 4 times a day.

Apply diclofenac sodium topical solution to clean, dry skin.

To avoid spillage, dispense diclofenac sodium topical solution 10 drops at a time either directly onto the knee or first into the hand and then onto the knee. Spread diclofenac sodium topical solution evenly around front, back and sides of the knee. Repeat this procedure until 40 drops have been applied and the knee is completely covered with solution.

To treat the other knee, if symptomatic, repeat the procedure.

Application of diclofenac sodium topical solution in an amount exceeding or less than the recommended dose has not been studied and is therefore not recommended.


2.2 Special Precautions



  • Avoid showering/bathing for at least 30 minutes after the application of diclofenac sodium topical solution to the treated knee.
  • Wash and dry hands after use.
  • Do not apply diclofenac sodium topical Solution USP, to open wounds.
  • Avoid contact of diclofenac sodium topical solution with eyes and mucous membranes.
  • Do not apply external heat and/or occlusive dressings to treated knees.
  • Avoid wearing clothing over the diclofenac sodium topical solution treated knee(s) until the treated knee is dry.
  • Protect the treated knee(s) from natural or artificial sunlight.
  • Wait until the treated area is dry before applying sunscreen, insect repellant, lotion, moisturizer, cosmetics, or other topical medication to the same knee you have just treated with diclofenac sodium topical solution.
  • Until the treated knee(s) is completely dry, avoid skin-to-skin contact between other people and the treated knee(s).
  • Do not use combination therapy with diclofenac sodium and an oral NSAID unless the benefit outweighs the risk and conduct periodic laboratory evaluations.

3. Dosage Forms And Strengths



Diclofenac sodium topical solution USP, 1.5% w/w


4. Contraindications



Diclofenac sodium topical solution, USP is contraindicated in the following patients:

  • Known hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylactic reactions and serious skin reactions) to diclofenac or any components of the drug product [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7, 5.9)].
  • History of asthma, urticaria, or other allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. Severe, sometimes fatal, anaphylactic reactions to NSAIDs have been reported in such patients [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.7, 5.8)] .
  • In the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

6. Adverse Reactions



The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling:

6.1 Clinical Studies Experience



Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of another drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trial of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

The data described below reflect exposure to diclofenac sodium topical solution of 911 patients treated between 4 and 12 weeks (mean duration of 49 days) in seven Phase 3 controlled trials, as well as exposure of 793 patients treated in an open-label study, including 463 patients treated for at least 6 months, and 144 patients treated for at least 12 months. The population mean age was approximately 60 years, 89% of patients were Caucasians, 64% were females, and all patients had primary osteoarthritis. The most common adverse events with diclofenac sodium topical solution were application site skin reactions. These events were the most common reason for withdrawing from the studies.


6.2 Postmarketing Experience



In non – U.S. postmarketing surveillance, the following adverse reactions have been reported during post-approval use of diclofenac sodium topical solution. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

Body as a Whole: abdominal pain, accidental injury, allergic reaction, asthenia, back pain, body odor, chest pain, edema, face edema, halitosis, headache, lack of drug effect, neck rigidity, pain

Cardiovascular: palpitation, cardiovascular disorder

Digestive: diarrhea, dry mouth, dyspepsia, gastroenteritis, decreased appetite, mouth ulceration, nausea, rectal hemorrhage, ulcerative stomatitis

Metabolic and Nutritional: creatinine increased

Musculoskeletal: leg cramps, myalgia

Nervous: depression, dizziness, drowsiness, lethargy, paresthesia, paresthesia at application site

Respiratory: asthma, dyspnea, laryngismus, laryngitis, pharyngitis

Skin and Appendages: At the Application Site: contact dermatitis, contact dermatitis with vesicles, dry skin, pruritus, rash; Other Skin and Appendages Adverse Reactions: eczema, rash, pruritus, skin discoloration, urticaria

Special senses: abnormal vision, blurred vision, cataract, ear pain, eye disorder, eye pain, taste perversion


7. Drug Interactions



See Table 2 for clinically significant drug interactions with diclofenac.

Table 2: Clinically Significant Drug Interactions with Diclofenac
Drugs That Interfere with Hemostasis
Clinical Impact:
  • Diclofenac and anticoagulants such as warfarin have a synergistic effect on bleeding. The concomitant use of diclofenac and anticoagulants have increased the risk of serious bleeding compared to the use of either drug alone.
  • Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Case-control and cohort epidemiological studies showed that concomitant use of drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and an NSAID may potentiate the risk of bleeding more than an NSAID alone.
Intervention:Monitor patients with concomitant use of diclofenac sodium with anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), antiplatelet agents (e.g., aspirin), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) for signs of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)]
Aspirin
Clinical Impact:Controlled clinical studies showed that the concomitant use of NSAIDs and analgesic doses of aspirin does not produce any greater therapeutic effect than the use of NSAIDs alone. In a clinical study, the concomitant use of an NSAID and aspirin was associated with a significantly increased incidence of GI adverse reactions as compared to use of the NSAID alone [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]
Intervention:Concomitant use of diclofenac sodium and analgesic doses of aspirin is not generally recommended because of the increased risk of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)] .

Diclofenac sodium is not a substitute for low dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection.
ACE Inhibitors, Angiotensin Receptor Blockers, and Beta-Blockers
Clinical Impact:
  • NSAIDs may diminish the antihypertensive effect of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), or beta-blockers (including propranolol).
  • In patients who are elderly, volume-depleted (including those on diuretic therapy), or have renal impairment, co-administration of an NSAID with ACE inhibitors or ARBs may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure. These effects are usually reversible.
Intervention:
  • During concomitant use of diclofenac sodium and ACE-inhibitors, ARBs, or beta-blockers, monitor blood pressure to ensure that the desired blood pressure is obtained.
  • During concomitant use of diclofenac sodium and ACE-inhibitors or ARBs in patients who are elderly, volume-depleted, or have impaired renal function, monitor for signs of worsening renal function [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].
  • When these drugs are administered concomitantly, patients should be adequately hydrated. Assess renal function at the beginning of the concomitant treatment and periodically thereafter.
Diuretics
Clinical Impact:Clinical studies, as well as post-marketing observations, showed that NSAIDs reduced the natriuretic effect of loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide) and thiazide diuretics in some patients. This effect has been attributed to the NSAID inhibition of renal prostaglandin synthesis.
Intervention:During concomitant use of diclofenac sodium with diuretics, observe patients for signs of worsening renal function, in addition to assuring diuretic efficacy including antihypertensive effects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)] .
Digoxin
Clinical Impact:The concomitant use of diclofenac with digoxin has been reported to increase the serum concentration and prolong the half-life of digoxin.
Intervention:During concomitant use of diclofenac sodium and digoxin, monitor serum digoxin levels.
Lithium
Clinical Impact:NSAIDs have produced elevations in plasma lithium levels and reductions in renal lithium clearance. The mean minimum lithium concentration increased 15%, and the renal clearance decreased by approximately 20%. This effect has been attributed to NSAID inhibition of renal prostaglandin synthesis.
Intervention:During concomitant use of diclofenac sodium and lithium, monitor patients for signs of lithium toxicity.
Methotrexate
Clinical Impact:Concomitant use of NSAIDs and methotrexate may increase the risk for methotrexate toxicity (e.g., neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, renal dysfunction)
Intervention:During concomitant use of diclofenac sodium and methotrexate, monitor patients for methotrexate toxicity.
Cyclosporine
Clinical Impact:Concomitant use of diclofenac sodium and cyclosporine may increase cyclosporine's nephrotoxicity.
Intervention:During concomitant use of diclofenac sodium and cyclosporine, monitor patients for signs of worsening renal function.
NSAIDs and Salicylates
Clinical Impact:Concomitant use of diclofenac with other NSAIDs or salicylates (e.g., diflunisal, salsalate) increases the risk of GI toxicity, with little or no increase in efficacy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] .

Concomitant use of oral NSAIDs with diclofenac sodium has been evaluated in one Phase 3 controlled trial and in combination with oral diclofenac, compared to oral diclofenac alone, resulted in a higher rate of rectal hemorrhage (3% vs. less than 1%), and more frequent abnormal creatinine (12% vs. 7%), urea (20% vs. 12%) and hemoglobin (13% vs. 9%).
Intervention:The concomitant use of diclofenac with other NSAIDs or salicylates is not recommended.

Do not use combination therapy with diclofenac sodium and an oral NSAID unless the benefit outweighs the risk and conduct periodic laboratory evaluations.
Pemetrexed
Clinical Impact:Concomitant use of diclofenac sodium and pemetrexed may increase the risk of pemetrexed-associated myelosuppression, renal, and GI toxicity (see the pemetrexed prescribing information).
Intervention:During concomitant use of diclofenac sodium and pemetrexed, in patients with renal impairment whose creatinine clearance ranges from 45 to 79 mL/min, monitor for myelosuppression, renal and GI toxicity.

NSAIDs with short elimination half-lives (e.g., diclofenac, indomethacin) should be avoided for a period of two days before, the day of, and two days following administration of pemetrexed.

In the absence of data regarding potential interaction between pemetrexed and NSAIDs with longer half-lives (e.g., meloxicam, nabumetone), patients taking these NSAIDs should interrupt dosing for at least five days before, the day of, and two days following pemetrexed administration.

8.2 Labor And Delivery



The effects of diclofenac sodium topical solution on labor and delivery in pregnant women are unknown. In rat studies maternal exposure to diclofenac, as with other NSAID drugs, known to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, increased the incidence of dystocia, delayed parturition, and decreased offspring survival.


8.3 Females And Males Of Reproductive Potential



It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk; however, there is a case report in the literature indicating that diclofenac can be detected at low levels in breast milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from diclofenac sodium topical solution, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.


8.4 Pediatric Use



Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.


8.5 Geriatric Use



Elderly patients, compared to younger patients, are a greater risk for NSAID-associated serious cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and/or renal adverse reactions. If the anticipated benefit for the elderly patient outweighs these potential risks, start dosing at the low end of the dosing range, and monitor patients for adverse effects [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.6, 5.14)].

Of the 911 patients treated with diclofenac sodium in seven controlled, Phase 3 clinical trials, 444 subjects were 65 years of age and over. There was no age-related difference in the incidence of adverse events. Of the 793 patients treated with diclofenac sodium in one open-labeled safety trial, 334 subjects were 65 years of age and over including 107 subjects 75 and over. There was no difference in the incidence of adverse events with long-term exposure to diclofenac sodium for this elderly population.


10. Overdosage



Symptoms following acute NSAID overdosages have been typically limited to lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and epigastric pain, which have been generally reversible with supportive care. Gastrointestinal bleeding has occurred. Hypertension, acute renal failure, respiratory depression, and coma have occurred, but were rare. [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.2. 5.4, 5.6)].

Manage patients with symptomatic and supportive care following an NSAID overdosage. There are no specific antidotes. Emesis is not recommended due to a possibility of aspiration and subsequent respiratory irritation by DMSO contained in diclofenac sodium. Consider activated charcoal (60 to 100 grams in adults, 1 to 2 grams per kg of body weight in pediatric patients) and/or osmotic cathartic in symptomatic patients seen within four hours of ingestion or in patients with a large overdosage (5 to 10 times the recommended dosage). Forced diuresis, alkalinization of urine, hemodialysis, or hemoperfusion may not be useful due to high protein binding.

For additional information about overdose treatment, contact a poison control center (1-800-222-1222).


11. Description



Diclofenac sodium topical solution is a clear, colorless to faintly pink-orange solution for topical application.

Diclofenac sodium topical solution contains 1.5% w/w diclofenac sodium, a benzeneacetic acid derivative that is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), designated chemically as 2-[(2,6-dichlorophenyl)amino]-benzeneacetic acid, monosodium salt. The molecular weight is 318.14. Its molecular formula is C 14H 10Cl 2NNaO 2 and it has the following structural formula:

Each 1 mL of solution contains 16.05 mg of diclofenac sodium. In addition diclofenac sodium topical solution contains the following inactive ingredients: dimethyl sulfoxide USP (DMSO, 45.5% w/w), propylene glycol, alcohol, glycerin and purified water.


12.1 Mechanism Of Action



Diclofenac has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties. The mechanism of action of diclofenac sodium, like that of other NSAIDs, is not completely understood but involves inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2).

Diclofenac is a potent inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis in vitro. Diclofenac concentrations reached during therapy have produced in vivo effects. Prostaglandins sensitize afferent nerves and potentiate the action of bradykinin in inducing pain in animal models. Prostaglandins are mediators of inflammation. Because diclofenac is an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis, its mode of action may be due to a decrease of prostaglandins in peripheral tissues.


12.3 Pharmacokinetics



After topical administration to healthy human volunteers of single and multiple maximum doses of diclofenac sodium topical solution, 40 drops (approximately 1.2 mL) to each knee (80 drops total dose), the following diclofenac pharmacokinetic parameters were obtained: (see Table 3).

Table 3: Single-Dose (80 drops) and Multiple Dose (80 drops four times daily for 7 days) Diclofenac Sodium Topical Solution Pharmacokinetic Parameters
Diclofenac Sodium
Pharmacokinetic ParametersNormal Adults [N=18]

(Age: 18 to 55 years)
Normal Adults [N=19]

(Age: 18 to 55 years)
Single DoseMultiple Dose

Four times daily for 7 days
AUC 0-t177.5 ± 72.6 ng∙h/mL695.4 ± 348.9 ng∙h/mL
AUC 0-inf196.3 ± 68.5 ng∙h/mL745.2 ± 374.7 ng∙h/mL
Plasma C max8.1 ± 5.9 ng/mL19.4 ± 9.3 ng/mL
Plasma T max (h) 11.0 ± 6.44.0 ± 6.5
Plasma t 1/2 (h) 36.7 ± 20.879.0 ± 38.1
Kel (h -1) 0.024 ± 0.0100.011 ± 0.004
CL/F (L/h)244.7 ± 84.7

Apparent total body clearance


14.1 Pivotal Studies In Osteoarthritis Of The Knee



The use of diclofenac sodium topical solution for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee was evaluated in two double-blind controlled trials conducted in the U.S. and Canada, involving patients treated with diclofenac sodium topical solution at a dose of 40 drops four times a day for 12 weeks. Diclofenac sodium topical solution was compared to topical placebo (2.3% DMSO with other excipients) and/or topical vehicle solution (45.5% w/w DMSO with other excipients), applied directly to the study knee. In both trials, diclofenac sodium topical solution treatment resulted in statistically significant clinical improvement compared to placebo and/or vehicle, in all three primary efficacy variables–pain, physical function (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities LK3.1 OA Index (WOMAC) pain and physical function dimensions) and Patient Overall Health Assessment (POHA)/Patient Global Assessment (PGA). Numerical results are summarized in Tables 4 and 5.

Table 4: Change in treatment outcomes after 12 weeks of treatment in one study of efficacy of Diclofenac Sodium Topical Solution
Efficacy VariableStudy I

Mean baseline score and mean change in efficacy variables after 12 weeks of treatment
Mean Baseline scoreDiclofenac Sodium Topical Solution

N=154
Topical placebo

placebo formulation included 2.3% DMSO



N=155
Topical vehicle

vehicle formulation included 45.5% DMSO



N=161
WOMAC pain score (Likert 3.1, 0-20)13-6.0-4.7-4.7
WOMAC physical function (Likert 3.1, 0-68)42-15.7-12.3-12.1
POHA (0-4)2.3-1.0-0.4-0.6
Table 5: Change in treatment outcomes after 12 weeks of treatment in one study of efficacy of Diclofenac Sodium Topical Solution
Efficacy VariableStudy II

Mean baseline score and mean change in efficacy variables after 12 weeks of treatment
Mean Baseline scoreDiclofenac Sodium Topical Solution

N=164
Topical vehicle

vehicle formulation included 45.5% DMSO



N=162
WOMAC pain score (Likert 3.1, 0-20)13-5.9-4.4
WOMAC physical function (Likert 3.1, 0-68)42-15.3-10.3
POHA (0-4)3.1-1.3-1.0

16. How Supplied/Storage And Handling



Diclofenac sodium topical solution USP, 1.5% w/w is supplied as a clear, colorless to slightly pink-orange solution containing 16.05 mg of diclofenac sodium per mL of solution, in a white bottle with a white dropper cap.

NDC Number & Size
Bottle 150 mLNDC 51672-1358-2

17. Patient Counseling Information



Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide) and Instructions for Use that accompanies each prescription dispensed. Inform patients, families, or their caregivers of the following information before initiating therapy with diclofenac sodium and periodically during the course of ongoing therapy.


Active Ingredient



Capsaicin 0.025%


Purpose



External analgesic


Uses



temporarily relieves minor aches and pains of muscles and joints due to:

  • simple backache
  • arthritis
  • strains
  • sprains

Otc - Do Not Use



For external use only

Read all warnings and directions before use. Test first on small area of skin.

Do not use

  • on wounds or damaged skin
  • if you are allergic to capsicum or chili peppers

When Using This Product



  • you may experience a burning sensation. The intensity of this reaction varies among individuals and may be severe. With regular use, this sensation generally disappears after several days.
  • avoid contact with the eyes, lips, nose and mucous membranes
  • do not tightly wrap or bandage the treated area
  • do not apply heat to the treated area immediately before or after use

Stop Use And Ask A Doctor If



  • condition worsens or does not improve after regular use
  • severe burning persists or blistering occurs

Otc - Keep Out Of Reach Of Children



Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.


Directions



Adults and children 18 years of age and older:

  • apply a thin film of cream to affected area and gently rub in until fully absorbed
  • unless treating hands, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water immediately after application
  • for best results, apply 3 to 4 times daily.
  • Children under 18 years: ask a doctor


Other Information



store at room temperature 15° - 30°C (59° - 86°F)


Inactive Ingredients



acrylates/C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, cetyl acetate, methylparaben, PPG-20 methyl glucose ether distearate, propylene glycol, propylparaben, stearate-100, stearic acid, stearyl alcohol, triethanolamine, water


Questions Or Comments?



Call 1-800-645-2158 9 am - 5 pm ET, Monday - Friday


Nudiclo Solupak Package Labeling




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