Generic Drug Name: Diclofenac for Eyes
Other Common Names: Volteran
Related Information
Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is commonly used to treat certain types of anterior uveitis and iritis. It is commonly used in place of topical corticosteroids when these types of drugs cause undesirable side effects. Diclofenac is used to treat conditions like chronic anterior uveitis in cats, lens-induced uveitis in dogs, and any chronic uveitis in patients with diabetes mellitus
Animals sensitive to NSAIDs should not take diclofenac. Patients suffering from the presence of an eye hemorrhage or systemic clotting abnormalities should not take this drug as it may increase bleeding tendencies during eye surgery. Diclofenac may inhibit wound healing and should not be used in patients with corneal ulceration. Patients with glaucoma should not take this drug. Diclofenac also has a history of interacting negatively with other drugs, and a veterinarian should be consulted before administration if the patient is currently taking any other prescription medications.
Diclofenac should not be used in animals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to the drug. A veterinarian should be contacted immediately if any negative side effects occur or if an overdose is suspected.
Diclofenac should be kept at room temperature and stored in a tight, light resistant, childproof container. It should be carefully stored in a location where it cannot be reached by children or pets.
When using diclofenac to treat active uveitis, a typical dose is a drop of solution in the eyes 2-3 times a day. For controlling chronic uveitis, 1-2 drops is typical. When using as an adjunctive therapy to intraocular surgery, a drop 2-3 times a day during the two days before a scheduled surgery is appropriate. Should a dose be forgotten, it should be administered as soon as possible. Should it almost be time for the next scheduled dose of diclofenac, the missed dose should be skipped and the normal administration schedule should be continued. Two doses should not be administered at the same time.
Doses may vary in different species, when the drug is given by a different route or concurrently with other medications, and with regards to a patient's age, breed, and health status. A veterinarian's dosing instructions and/or those printed on the medication label should be followed closely.