Diclofenac
General Drug Information and Indications
Topical NSAID (diclofenac sodium) liposomal cream for localized joint and soft tissue inflammation in horses; periocular anti-inflammatory drops.
Phenylacetic acid NSAID (diclofenac sodium). Mechanism: non-selective COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitor → reduces prostaglandin synthesis. Liposomal formulation (Surpass) enables transdermal delivery to local tissues with minimal systemic absorption. Also available as ophthalmic drops. Anti-inflammatory, analgesic effects.
Key information
Topical NSAID (Surpass). For horses only — topical gel for joint/soft tissue pain. Apply with gloves — human skin absorption. Do not use in horses intended for food. Do not apply over large areas.
How to Give this Medication
Topical cream (Surpass): apply thin layer and rub gently into the skin over the affected joint or soft tissue. Wear gloves during application. Apply once or twice daily as directed. Avoid application to large areas. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next application, skip it and resume the normal schedule. Do not apply extra product to compensate.
Side Effects
Topical (Surpass): local skin reaction — erythema, hair loss, pruritus at application site. Systemic absorption is low but may cause GI or renal effects with excessive application. Avoid contact with eyes, wounds, and inflamed skin.
Precautions
For animals
Topical Surpass: Do not use concurrently with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids. Apply only to the target area; avoid spreading across large surface areas (systemic NSAID effects). Monitor for GI ulceration; use with caution in animals with GI disease. Do not apply to inflamed, abraded, or broken skin (excessive absorption).
For people handling this medication
Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. NSAID topical cream — wear gloves during application. Avoid applying to your own skin (can cause GI and cardiovascular effects via skin absorption). Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
Overdose
If excessive product was applied, wash the area with soap and water. Contact your veterinarian if the horse shows GI signs (colic, reduced manure) or lameness worsening. Do not apply extra doses.
Diclofenac dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DICLOFENAC SODIUM 1% AND DMSO 76% SPRAY - 60 ML | 1% AND DMSO 76% | Spray | 60 ML | Compound |
| DICLOFENAC SOL 0.1% OP | — | — | 1 | Commercial |
| DICLOFENAC 50MG TABLET | 50 MG | Tablet | 1 | Commercial |
| DICLOFENAC SOL 0.1% OPTHL SOL 5 MLS | — | — | — | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual – Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs in Animals (https://www.merckvetmanual.com/pharmacology/inflammation/nonsteroidal-anti-inflammatory-drugs-in-animals); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)