Voltaren (Diclofenac Sodium)

Description

Voltaren (diclofenac) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is taken orally for the treatment of mild-to-moderate pain and to help to alleviate symptoms of arthritis such as swelling, stiffness, inflammation, and pain in the joints. Voltaren (diclofenac) may also be used for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis, menstrual cramps, and migraines. However, Voltaren (diclofenac) does not prevent or decrease the number of migraine attacks.

The brand product has been discontinued in the US, but generic alternatives may be available.

Directions

Voltaren (diclofenac) should be taken as prescribed. Your doctor will determine an appropriate Voltaren (diclofenac) dosage for you. Carefully read the medication guide for further usage instructions, including storage; keep away from children’s reach.

Any questions or concerns may be referred to your doctor or pharmacist.

Ingredients

Diclofenac is the active ingredient in Voltaren.

See the medication guide or product labeling for a full list of Voltaren (diclofenac) ingredients.

Contraindications

Consult with your doctor about whether Voltaren (diclofenac) may be an option for you.

Cautions

• Before you begin treatment with Voltaren (diclofenac), inform your doctor of:
• All the medications you are taking, including prescription and nonprescription medications
• Your allergies
• Your current health conditions
• Your past medical history
• Your status of pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Voltaren (diclofenac) includes the following precautions:
• Keep regular doctor’s appointments so that your healthcare team can track your progress.
• The risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, or blood clot may be increased with Voltaren (diclofenac) use. The risk is greater in people with a history of heart and blood vessel disease and who are taking the medication long-term. Immediately contact your doctor if you experience chest pain or discomfort; nausea or vomiting; pain or discomfort in the arms, back, jaw, or neck; difficulty breathing; weakness; or slurred speech.
• Stomach or intestinal bleeding can occur, sometimes without warning signs. The risk is greater in patients with a history of a stomach ulcer, patients who smoke or regularly consume alcohol, patients who are older than 60 years of age, patients in poor health, or in patients taking certain medications like steroids or blood thinners. Immediately contact your doctor if you have severe stomach pain, black, tarry stools, or are vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds.
• Immediately contact your doctor if you have pain or tenderness in the upper stomach, pale stools, dark urine, appetite loss, nausea, vomiting, or yellowing of the whites of the eyes or the skin, as these could be signs of serious liver issues.
• High blood pressure can occur.
• Serious skin reactions can occur, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, exfoliative dermatitis, toxic epidermal necrolysis, fixed drug eruption, generalized bullous fixed drug eruption, and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms. Immediately contact your doctor if you develop black, tarry stools; skin blisters, peeling, or loosening; chest pain; chills; cough; diarrhea; fever; itching; joint or muscle pain; painful or trouble with urination; red irritated eyes; red skin lesions; sore throat; sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips; swollen glands; unusual bleeding or bruising; or unusual tiredness or weakness.
• High potassium levels in the blood can occur. Immediately contact your doctor if you experience stomach pain, confusion, trouble breathing, abnormal heartbeat, nausea or vomiting, nervousness, numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips, or weakness or heaviness of the legs.
• Serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, can occur. Immediately contact your doctor if you develop a rash, itching, trouble breathing or swallowing, or swelling of your hands, face, or mouth.
• Harm to an unborn baby can occur.
• Immediately contact your doctor if you experience confusion, fever, drowsiness, general feeling of illness, appetite loss, headache, nausea, stiff neck or back, or vomiting, as these could be symptoms of meningitis.
• Immediately contact your doctor if you experience vision changes, including blurred vision or difficulty in reading.
• The ability to have children may be impacted by Voltaren (diclofenac), and ovulation can be delayed.
• Before undergoing surgery or other medical procedures, inform your doctor that you are taking Voltaren (diclofenac).

Side Effects

Voltaren (diclofenac) side effects may include but are not limited to stomach acid or sourness, belching, bleeding gums, blood in the stools or urine, chest pain, dizziness, increased bleeding time, itchy skin or rash, unusual bleeding or bruising, or vomiting blood.

Immediately inform your doctor of any bothersome or persistent side effects you experience while taking Voltaren (diclofenac).

Ask your doctor about Voltaren (diclofenac).

Reference

1. Diclofenac (oral route). Mayo Clinic; 2025.

About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)

Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....