Voltaren (diclofenac) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat mild to moderate pain and inflammation in a wide range of conditions. In many respects it is similar to other NSAIDs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, as far as benefits and side effects, but many patients find Voltaren to be more helpful in treating pain from inflammatory conditions that other NSAIDs. Voltaren is not particularly effective as a fever-reducer.

Also like other NSAIDs, Voltaren is usually used as-needed and over the short term; treatment should not exceed 14 consecutive days without doctor approval. Risk of serious side effects increase with length of use.

In addition to the tablets on this page, Voltaren is available in a few other formulas:

• Voltaren Rapid is a fast-acting version of Voltaren tablets that begins working 10 to 15 minutes faster than its regular counterparts. Unfortunately effects wear off faster than regular tablets, and it should not be used for more than 7 consecutive days.
• Voltaren Emulgel is a topical gel applied to the skin. It is particularly beneficial in treating joint, muscle, tendon or ligament pain and inflammation, but will have no effect on other types of pain, like headaches. A significant advantage of topical application is the reduced risk of side effects.
• Duranzo contains the same active ingredient as Voltaren, and also contains codeine. It is beneficial for short-term use when more powerful pain relief is needed than Voltaren alone can provide.

Note that patients who have had allergic reactions to any other NSAID are at increased risk of having an allergic reaction to Voltaren. All NSAIDs increase risk of complications if taken in the third trimester of pregnancy.

Taking Voltaren

NSAIDs like this product are often viewed as virtually harmless, perhaps because they are so widely used and often available over-the-counter. Patients seeking relief from pain often think little of taking higher doses or using these products for considerably longer than recommended. Be aware that doing so can produce very serious, even fatal, complications. On the other hand, the reason NSAIDs are so readily available is because they are generally very safe if used as recommended.

Voltaren is used to treat pain and inflammation over the short term from injuries or during flare-ups of chronic conditions, such as:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Muscle sprains or strains
• Sports injuries
• Tendonitis
• Headaches

It should not be used as a long-term treatment to manage chronic conditions like arthritis.

Treatment is similar in all conditions:

• Take 50 or 75 mg as-needed up to three times per day.
• Do not exceed 75 mg in a single dose.
• Each dose should be followed with a full glass of water.
• Wait at least 10 minutes after a dose before laying down.
• Taking on a full stomach may slow the speed at which effects are felt.

As with any medication, taking the smallest effective dose for the shortest amount of time is desirable. However, some patients do take Voltaren for longer than the recommended 14 days; in these cases regular doctor checkups are advisable to monitor for any potentially developing side effects.

Warnings & Side Effects

Used as directed, serious side effects from Voltaren are rare. More common side effects are generally not cause for concern unless severe, including:

• Nausea
• Heartburn
• Headache
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Drowsiness
• Mild dizziness
• Gas

Even if using the medication as directed some patients are at increased risk of severe side effects. Be alert for warning signs if there is any history of:

• Ulcers or bleeding in the stomach or intestines
• Heart problems
• Kidney or liver problems
• Fluid retention
• High blood pressure

Adverse reactions that warrant immediate medical attention include:

• Symptoms of heart attack or stroke
• Seizures
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe dizziness or confusion
• Severe or persistant abdominal pain

As mentioned above, this product---and all NSAIDs---should be avoided during the third trimester of pregnancy.