Common uses of Voltaren (diclofenac)
Voltaren is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness by blocking prostaglandins involved in inflammation. In the United States, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel 1% is approved over the counter for the temporary relief of arthritis pain in specific joints of the hands, wrists, elbows, feet, ankles, and knees. It is designed to deliver diclofenac directly to affected tissues while minimizing whole-body exposure.
Systemic (oral) diclofenac, available by prescription, is used for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, acute pain, and menstrual cramps. Keep in mind that OTC Voltaren Gel in the U.S. is not labeled for back, hip, or shoulder pain, and should not be used on open skin or infected wounds. Always match the product to the indication: topical Voltaren for targeted joint pain relief, and prescription diclofenac when a clinician deems systemic therapy necessary.
Dosage and directions for Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel 1%
Use the dosing card included with the product to measure each application. For upper-body joints (hand, wrist, or elbow), apply 2 grams to the affected joint four times daily. For lower-body joints (foot, ankle, or knee), apply 4 grams to the affected joint four times daily. Gently rub the gel into the skin where it hurts. Do not apply to more than two body areas at the same time. Maximum total amount from all joints per day is 32 grams.
Wash hands before and after use (unless treating the hands). Avoid showering or bathing for at least 1 hour after application, and do not use heating pads, occlusive dressings, or other topical products on the treated area. Allow the gel to dry before covering with clothing. Keep out of eyes, mouth, and inside of the nose. If symptoms worsen or persist beyond 21 days, stop use and ask a healthcare professional.
Prescription diclofenac tablets, capsules, or solution must be dosed as directed by your clinician. Common adult doses include 50 mg two or three times daily or 75 mg twice daily, using the lowest effective dose for the shortest time. Never exceed prescribed amounts, and do not combine oral diclofenac with other NSAIDs unless advised by your prescriber.
Precautions before using Voltaren
All NSAIDs can increase the risk of serious cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke), especially with systemic use, higher doses, and longer duration. While topical Voltaren has lower systemic exposure, some absorption occurs, so people with cardiovascular disease, risk factors (e.g., hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, smoking), or prior stroke should consult a clinician before use.
NSAIDs may also cause gastrointestinal irritation, ulcers, or bleeding; risk is higher in older adults, those with prior ulcers, those using alcohol, corticosteroids, anticoagulants, or multiple NSAIDs. Avoid applying Voltaren Gel to broken, infected, or eczematous skin. Use caution with asthma, nasal polyps, or aspirin sensitivity. If you have kidney, liver, or heart disease, or are dehydrated, speak with a healthcare professional first. During pregnancy, avoid NSAIDs at 20 weeks or later unless specifically directed; do not use them at 30 weeks or later due to fetal risks. If breastfeeding, discuss large-area or prolonged use with your clinician.
This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice. If your pain is severe, unexplained, or accompanied by fever, numbness, or weakness, seek medical care promptly.
Contraindications to Voltaren
Do not use Voltaren if you have had asthma, hives, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs; serious, sometimes fatal, reactions can occur. Avoid if you have known hypersensitivity to diclofenac or any formulation components. Systemic diclofenac is contraindicated for the treatment of perioperative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Do not use in late pregnancy (third trimester).
Use is not recommended with active gastrointestinal bleeding, severe uncontrolled heart failure, or significant renal or hepatic impairment unless directed by a specialist. For topical gel, do not apply to open wounds, infected areas, or inside the mouth, nose, or eyes, and avoid covering with airtight dressings.
Possible side effects of Voltaren
Most people tolerate topical Voltaren well. Common local effects include skin redness, dryness, itching, rash, burning, or stinging at the application site. These are often mild and improve with continued use or dose adjustment. Systemic effects are less common with the gel but may include headache, nausea, dyspepsia, dizziness, or fluid retention.
Serious adverse effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Stop use and seek help for signs of an allergic reaction (wheezing, swelling of face or throat, hives), chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, weakness on one side, slurred speech (possible heart attack or stroke), black or bloody stools, vomiting blood or coffee-ground material (GI bleeding), yellowing of skin or eyes (liver problems), decreased urination or swelling in legs (kidney issues), or severe skin reactions with blistering or peeling. Photosensitivity can occur; protect treated skin from excessive sun exposure.
Drug interactions with Voltaren and diclofenac
Even with topical application, some systemic absorption occurs, so interactions still matter. Combining Voltaren with other NSAIDs (including ibuprofen, naproxen) or high-dose aspirin can increase GI and kidney risks. Anticoagulants and antiplatelets (e.g., warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban, clopidogrel) and SSRIs/SNRIs may raise bleeding risk when used with NSAIDs—consult your prescriber before combining.
ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and certain diuretics (e.g., furosemide, HCTZ) can be less effective with NSAIDs and may increase kidney risk, especially in older adults or dehydrated patients. Diclofenac may increase levels or toxicity of lithium and methotrexate, and enhance nephrotoxicity with cyclosporine. Caution with digoxin and systemic corticosteroids (added GI risk). Limit alcohol to reduce GI bleeding risk. For topical use, avoid applying other medicated creams/gels on the same site unless advised, and let Voltaren dry fully before sunscreen or cosmetics. Always provide your pharmacist or clinician with a full medication and supplement list.
Missed dose guidance
Voltaren Gel can be used on a schedule for chronic arthritis pain. If you miss a dose, apply it when you remember unless it is almost time for the next application. Do not double up or exceed four applications per day per joint. Keeping a consistent routine helps maintain relief while minimizing side effects. If you routinely forget doses or need more frequent use, speak with a clinician about your pain plan.
Overdose and what to do
Excessive topical use, application over large areas, or use with occlusive dressings can increase systemic absorption. Accidental ingestion—especially by a child—or high systemic doses can produce nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, drowsiness, ringing in the ears, high blood pressure, kidney problems, or GI bleeding. If a child or adult swallows Voltaren Gel, or overdose is suspected, contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 (U.S.) or seek emergency care. Call 911 for severe symptoms like trouble breathing, fainting, or seizures. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a healthcare professional. Remove any excess gel from the skin and avoid heat or tight coverings.
Storage information
Store Voltaren at room temperature, ideally 68–77°F (20–25°C). Keep the cap tightly closed, and protect from excessive heat and freezing. Do not puncture or incinerate packaging. Keep out of reach of children and pets; even small amounts can be harmful if ingested. Use only until the expiration date. Keep the dosing card clean and dry, and do not share the product with others to avoid cross-contamination and dosing errors.
U.S. sale and prescription policy: buy Voltaren without prescription at HealthSouth Hospital of Altamonte Springs
In the United States, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel 1% is available over the counter without a prescription, while oral diclofenac tablets, capsules, certain topical strengths, and specialty formulations remain prescription-only. HealthSouth Hospital of Altamonte Springs offers a legal, structured solution for acquiring eligible Voltaren products without a formal prescription, aligning with FDA labeling and state pharmacy regulations. That means you can conveniently order OTC Voltaren online while benefiting from pharmacist oversight and consumer protections.
Here’s how it works: eligible OTC items can be purchased directly with transparent pricing, secure checkout, and fast shipping. Age and quantity limits may apply to promote safe use. For prescription-only diclofenac products, a valid prescription is still required—HealthSouth Hospital of Altamonte Springs will not dispense Rx medications without one. If you have questions about which Voltaren option fits your needs, pharmacists are available to guide appropriate selection, dosing, and potential interactions. This balanced approach provides access, safety, and compliance so you can buy Voltaren without prescription when it’s legally offered, and receive streamlined support when a prescription is necessary.
