Voltaren Gel (Diclofenac)

What is Voltaren Gel?

Voltaren Emulgel (diclofenac) belongs to a group of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

What is Voltaren Gel used for?

Voltaren Emulgel is used to relieve joint pains caused by arthritis.

How does Voltaren Gel work?

The exact mechanism of Voltaren Emulgel is not known, but it is believed to work by reducing the number of pain and inflammation-causing hormones in the body.

How to use Voltaren Gel

Voltaren Emulgel is for use on the skin only. It is advised that you use the dosing cards provided with the medicine in order to measure the right dose.

Place the dosing card in such a way that the printed content is readable. Squeeze an even line of Voltaren Emulgel onto the dosing card, using the marks on the card. Rub the medicine gently into the affected joint, but make sure that the medicine is not applied to cut, infected or rash-prone areas of the skin. Voltaren Emulgel is used 4 times a day or as directed by the doctor. You may use the dosing card to apply the medicine.

After you have used the dosing card, fold the card in half, with the medicine side inside and throw it away. Make sure that it is out of reach of children and pets. Wash your hands properly after use. Do not wash the medicine off the affected area. Do not cover the area with bandage or apply heat to it.

Make sure that the medicine doesn’t get into your eyes, nose or mouth. If, by chance, it gets into any of these areas, flush with plenty of water.

Voltaren Gel warnings and precautions

Before using Voltaren Emulgel, inform your doctor if you are allergic to the medicine, to aspirin or other NSAIDs (non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Consult your doctor if you have aspirin-sensitive asthma (breathing difficulty with stuffy/ runny nose after taking aspirin or any other NSAID), or if you have had a heart bypass surgery (CABG) recently.

Prior to using Voltaren Emulgel, inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, heart disease, stomach or intestinal problems, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, dehydration, blood disorders, asthma or nose polyps.

If you have to undergo a surgery, let your surgeon know, in advance, that you are on the prescription period of this medicine. Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol while using Voltaren Emulgel. Also, avoid getting out in the sun as the medicine makes your skin sensitive to sunlight.

Pregnant and lactating females should consult their doctors to know about the risks and benefits of using this medication.

What do I do if I have missed a Voltaren Gel dose?

If you have missed your Voltaren Emulgel dose you should use it as soon as you remember, but do not use it if it is already time for the next dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Voltaren Gel overdose?

If you have used a Voltaren Emulgel overdose you should seek consultation from your doctor.

Voltaren Gel interactions

Before using Voltaren Emulgel, inform your doctor if you use blood thinners such as warfarin; corticosteroids, cyclosporine, cidofovir, desmopressin, digoxin, medicines for high blood pressure, lithium, SSRI antidepressants, or water pills.

It is advised that before using this medication, let your doctor know about all prescription and non prescription drugs that you are using.

Voltaren Gel side effects

Voltaren Emulgel side effects include swelling at the application site, severe or persistent headache, sudden and unexplained weight gain, stomach ache, changes in vision, ringing in ears, fast or pounding heartbeat, fainting, dark urine, nausea, vomiting, yellowing of eyes or skin, skin rash, itching, severe dizziness, bruising, bleeding, stiffness in neck or liver problems.

Contact your doctor if you witness any of these side effects or any unusual symptoms after using Voltaren Emulgel.