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NSAID — Topical Ophthalmic

Diclofenac 0.1% Eye Drops

Brand names: Voltarol Ophtha, Diclofenac Sodium 0.1% Eye Drops

Diclofenac eye drops are a topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to control ocular inflammation and pain, including after eye surgery and to inhibit intraoperative miosis.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

Diclofenac inhibits cyclo-oxygenase, reducing prostaglandin synthesis in ocular tissues and thereby decreasing inflammation, pain and surgically induced pupil constriction.

Prescribing in practice

  • Topical ocular NSAIDs can impair corneal healing and, rarely, cause corneal melting or ulceration, with greater risk in compromised, denervated or repeatedly operated eyes and with concurrent topical steroids.
  • Use with caution in patients with known hypersensitivity to aspirin or other NSAIDs because of the potential for cross-reactivity.
  • Caution is advised in those with bleeding tendencies or taking agents that prolong bleeding, as transient stinging and surface effects can occur.

Monitoring

Review the cornea for delayed healing or epithelial breakdown, particularly with prolonged use or in at-risk eyes.

Counselling the patient

  • A brief stinging or burning sensation on instillation is common.
  • Report any worsening pain, reduced vision or persistent redness.
  • Do not exceed the prescribed course without ophthalmic advice.

Evidence & guidelines

Topical NSAIDs such as diclofenac are established for perioperative ocular inflammation and pain, with use guided by the SPC.

Reference: MHRA NSAIDs Corneal Melting Warning; ESCRS Cataract Surgery Guidelines; SPC Voltarol Ophtha; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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