Voltaren (Voltaren)
General Health Treatment
Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation.
Table of Contents
Voltaren Product Information
Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that effectively reduces substances in the body responsible for pain and inflammation. It is widely used to manage mild to moderate pain, as well as the signs and symptoms associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The brand name Voltaren specifically addresses ankylosing spondylitis, while Cataflam is also prescribed for menstrual cramps.
For migraine headache attacks, diclofenac powder (Cambia) offers targeted relief. It is important to note that Cambia is designed to treat existing headaches and will not prevent future occurrences or reduce the frequency of attacks.
Diclofenac works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation.
Take diclofenac exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it. Some forms should be taken on an empty stomach. Dissolve the powder form with water and drink all of it right away.
Oral tablets/capsules: 20-60 minutes for initial pain relief. Topical gel: May take several days of consistent use for full effect. Injection: Within 30 minutes.
Oral forms: Effects can last for several hours, with a terminal half-life of approximately 2 hours, but apparent half-life including metabolites can be 25.8-33 hours. Injection: Approximately 4-6 hours for pain relief.
Voltaren Quick View
| Active Ingredient | Diclofenac |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) |
| Type | Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) |
| Onset | 20-60 minutes |
| Duration | 4-6 hours |
| Food Interaction | Take with food to reduce GI irritation and bleeding risk. |
| Alcohol | Do not drink alcohol while taking diclofenac. Alcohol can increase your risk of stomach bleeding caused by diclofenac. |
| Prescription | Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) depending on the formulation and strength. |
Voltaren Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- indigestion
- nausea
- vomiting
- stomach pain
- diarrhea
- constipation
- headache
- dizziness
- drowsiness
- abnormal lab tests
- itching
- rash
- swelling or pain in your arms or legs
Uncommon Side Effects
Rare Side Effects
- signs of stomach bleeding - bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
- liver problems - nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, tired feeling, flu-like symptoms, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
- kidney problems - little or no urination, swelling in your feet or ankles, feeling tired or short of breath
- heart problems - swelling, rapid weight gain, feeling short of breath
- high blood pressure - severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears, anxiety, nosebleed
- low red blood cells (anemia) - pale skin, unusual tiredness, feeling light-headed or short of breath, cold hands and feet
Important Warning: Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficult breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling). Get emergency medical help if you have signs of a heart attack or stroke: chest pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder, sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, leg swelling, feeling short of breath.
More Information About Voltaren
Storage
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Contraindications
You should not use diclofenac if you are allergic to it, or if you have ever had an asthma attack or severe allergic reaction after taking aspirin or an NSAID. Do not use this medicine just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).
Drug Interactions
Ask your doctor before using diclofenac if you take an antidepressant. Taking any of these medicines with an NSAID may cause you to bruise or bleed easily. Also, inform your doctor if you use cyclosporine, lithium, methotrexate, probenecid, warfarin or other blood thinners, or a diuretic.
Voltaren FAQs
Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain and inflammation. It is used to treat mild to moderate pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and menstrual cramps. Specific formulations like Cambia are used for migraine headache attacks.
Diclofenac should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Tablets should be swallowed whole without crushing or chewing. Some forms, like Zorvolex, should be taken on an empty stomach. Diclofenac powder (Cambia) should be dissolved in 1 to 2 ounces of water and consumed immediately. Always follow the directions on your prescription label and any medication guides.
Common side effects of Diclofenac may include indigestion, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, abnormal lab tests, itching, rash, and swelling or pain in your arms or legs. It is important to contact your doctor if you experience any severe or persistent side effects.
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Content last updated: 14 Apr 2026
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