Voltaren Gel is a prescription medicine used to treat symptoms of actinic keratosis, osteoarthritis, acute pain and arthritis pain. Voltaren Gel may be used alone or with other medications.

Voltaren Gel is for use on the skin only. Read your pharmacist's medication guide and patient instructions before using Voltaren Gel. To measure the right dose:

• Use the dosing card(s) provided with the medication.
• Place a dosing card on a flat surface so you can read the print on the card.
• Squeeze an even line of the medication from the tube onto the dosing card, using the marks on the card to measure the prescribed dose.
• Gently rub the Voltaren Gel into the entire affected joint, usually four times daily or as directed by your doctor. You may use the dosing card to apply the medication.
• Do not apply the medication on skin that has cuts, infections, or rashes.

If the package instructions direct you to reuse the dosing card, then after each use, hold the card with your fingertips, rinse, and dry it. When you are ready to discard the dosing card, fold the card in half with the medication inside and throw it away from the reach of children and pets. Please wash your hands after using the medication unless you are using it to treat your hands. Do not shower, bathe, or wash any treated areas for at least an hour after applying the medication; wait 10 minutes before covering the treated area with gloves or clothing. Do not wrap, bandage, or apply heat to the treated area.

Before using Voltaren Gel, tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you are allergic to it, NSAIDs, other medications, or any ingredients in Voltaren Gel preparations.
• Medical history of severe diarrhea or vomiting; asthma, stuffed or runny nose or nasal polyps; swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs; heart failure; or kidney or liver disease.
• If you are pregnant, this medication may decrease fertility in women.

You should know that you should not apply sunscreens, cosmetics, lotions, moisturizers, insect repellents, or other topical medications to areas treated with Voltaren Gel. Plan to avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to real or artificial sunlight and to wear protective clothing to cover areas treated with Voltaren Gel. 

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Voltaren gel, such as:

• A skin rash, no matter how mild,
• swelling, rapid weight gain,
• severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears,
• little or no urination,
• liver problems,
• low red blood cells,
• signs of stomach bleeding.

Common Voltaren gel side effects may include:

• Heartburn, gas, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting;
• diarrhea, constipation;
• headache, dizziness, drowsiness;
• stuffy nose;
• itching, increased sweating;
• increased blood pressure; or
• skin redness, itching, dryness, scaling or peeling.

These are not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. 

Can Voltaren Gel help relieve joint pain?

When applied, Voltaren Gel works instantly with minimal bloodstream absorption. As a result, it allows older adults and those with stomach issues a safer option than oral diclofenac.

Is it safe to consume ibuprofen tablets while on Voltaren Gel?

Using ibuprofen tablets with topical Voltaren Gel is not recommended unless your provider instructs you. Because both medications are NSAIDs, using them together puts you at a higher risk for side effects.

How long does it take for Voltaren Gel to work for osteoarthritis?

You might start to feel relief from your pain after a few days of using Voltaren Gel, but it usually takes about a week to feel significant pain relief. You should use Voltaren Gel for at least four weeks to experience maximum benefits.

What side effects does Voltaren Gel cause?

Skin irritation/redness may occur at the application site. Tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly if this effect lasts or gets worse.