What Is Voltaren?

Voltaren is a brand name for diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. First introduced in the 1970s, Voltaren remains a popular choice for conditions like:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Acute musculoskeletal injuries (sprains, strains)
• Back pain
• Menstrual cramps

Diclofenac works by blocking enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) that produce prostaglandins—chemicals your body makes when tissues are injured or inflamed. By lowering prostaglandin levels, Voltaren helps ease pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Voltaren Gel vs. Voltaren Tablets

Voltaren is available in several forms. Two common ones are:

1. Voltaren Gel (topical diclofenac)
2. Voltaren Tablets (oral diclofenac)

Although both contain the same active ingredient, they differ in how they deliver medication, how fast they work, and their side-effect profiles.

1. How They Deliver Medication

Voltaren Gel

• Applied directly to the skin over the painful area
• Absorbed locally into underlying tissues
• Minimal absorption into the bloodstream (low systemic exposure)

Voltaren Tablets

• Swallowed and absorbed through the digestive tract
• Enters the bloodstream and circulates throughout the body
• Treats pain and inflammation systemically

2. Onset of Action

Voltaren Gel

• You may feel relief within 30–60 minutes of application
• Best for localized joint or muscle pain (knees, hands, elbows)

Voltaren Tablets

• Generally takes 1–2 hours to reach peak blood levels
• Better for widespread pain or inflammatory conditions

3. Duration of Effect

Voltaren Gel

• Typically applied 3–4 times daily
• Each application provides relief for several hours

Voltaren Tablets

• Standard dosing is 2–3 times a day, depending on strength
• Some extended-release formulations allow once-daily dosing

Uses and Benefits

Both gel and tablets share the same core benefits of diclofenac:

• Reducing pain and stiffness in joints
• Easing inflammation after injury
• Improving mobility in chronic conditions

However, your choice between gel and tablets usually depends on:

• Location of pain: Local pain may respond better to gel
• Extent of pain: Widespread or internal pain may need tablets
• Risk of side effects: Gel often has fewer systemic side effects

How Voltaren Gel Differs from Tablets

Feature	Voltaren Gel	Voltaren Tablets
Route of administration	Topical (skin)	Oral
Systemic absorption	Low (<6% of applied dose)	High (nearly 100%)
Onset of action	30–60 minutes	1–2 hours
Main use	Localized joint/muscle pain	Systemic pain/inflammation
Common side effects	Local skin irritation, itching	Stomach upset, ulcers, heartburn, cardiovascular risks
Typical dosing frequency	3–4 times daily	2–3 times daily (or once daily for ER)

Advantages of Voltaren Gel

• Targets pain site directly
• Lower chance of stomach or kidney issues
• Fewer drug interactions
• Good option for people who can’t tolerate oral NSAIDs

Advantages of Voltaren Tablets

• Treats widespread inflammation (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
• Convenient for people with multiple painful sites
• Extended-release options reduce dosing frequency

Proper Use and Dosing

Voltaren Gel

• Wash and dry the affected area.
• Apply a thin layer (usually 2–4 grams, depending on the size of the area).
• Gently rub in until the gel disappears.
• Wash your hands after application (unless you’re treating your hands).
• Avoid open wounds, eyes, and mucous membranes.
• Do not wrap or cover the area tightly after application.

Voltaren Tablets

• Take with food or milk to reduce stomach upset.
• Swallow whole; do not crush or chew extended-release forms.
• Follow your doctor’s dosing schedule exactly.
• Do not skip doses or double up if you miss one—ask your doctor what to do.

Safety and Precautions

Although Voltaren is effective, all NSAIDs carry risks, especially with long-term or high-dose use.

Common Side Effects

Voltaren Gel

• Skin redness or rash
• Dryness or peeling
• Mild itching

Voltaren Tablets

• Upset stomach, nausea, heartburn
• Headache, dizziness
• Increased blood pressure

Serious but Rare Risks

• Gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers
• Kidney damage or reduced kidney function
• Increased risk of heart attack or stroke (especially at high doses or long treatment)
• Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)

Who Should Be Cautious

• People with a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding
• People with heart disease, high blood pressure, or stroke risk factors
• Those with liver or kidney impairment
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (ask your doctor)
• People taking blood thinners or other NSAIDs

When to Talk to a Doctor

Always check with a healthcare professional before starting or stopping Voltaren, especially if you:

• Experience severe abdominal pain or black stools
• Notice swelling in your legs or unexplained weight gain
• Have chest pain, shortness of breath, or slurred speech
• Develop a severe skin reaction or persistent rash

For non-emergency concerns—like uncertainty about symptoms or whether Voltaren is right for you—consider a free, online symptom check, using the doctor approved Ubie Symptom Checker for personalized guidance.

If you suspect anything life-threatening or serious, seek medical attention immediately or speak to a doctor without delay.

Key Takeaways

• What is Voltaren? Voltaren is diclofenac, an NSAID for pain and inflammation.
• Gel vs. Tablets: Gel is topical with low systemic absorption; tablets work systemically but carry higher risks.
• Choose based on: Location of pain, overall health, risk factors, and convenience.
• Use safely: Follow dosing instructions, watch for side effects, and discuss any concerns with your doctor.

Always consult a healthcare professional before making changes to your medication. If you have serious symptoms or suspect an emergency, speak to a doctor right away.