Frequently Asked Questions About
Arthritis & Voltaren Gel

Your Arthritis & Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel questions answered.

VOLTAREN ARTHRITIS PAIN GEL

General

  • How do I know if I have arthritis?

    The most common symptoms associated with osteoarthritis include joint pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. Pain is your body’s warning signal to alert you that something isn’t right. If you suspect that you have arthritis, speak with a doctor to help diagnose your symptoms.

  • What is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel used for?

    Voltaren Benefits
    • Show Transcript

      Text: What is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel Used For?

      VO: Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel can be used for temporary relief of arthritis pain in the hands, wrists, elbows, feet, ankles and knees. It was studied in patients with osteoarthritis.

      Text: Osteoarthritis

      VO: Osteoarthritis or OA is the most common form of arthritis and mainly affects cartilage. When you have OA, your cartilage begins to break away and wear away, resulting in joint pain and stiffness.

      Text: Joint Pain

      Text: Stiffness

      VO: OA occurs more frequently when you get older and the pain can gradually worsen over time.

      Text: Use as directed

      VO: Voltaren works similarly to oral NSAIDs like naproxen by temporarily blocking the production of pain-signaling chemicals called prostaglandins. It works by penetrating deep through your skin to deliver NSAID medicine and relieve arthritis pain.

      Text: The joy of movement

    Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel can be used for the temporary relief of arthritis pain in the hands, wrists, elbows, feet, ankles and knees to make daily tasks less painful. It was studied in patients with osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and mainly affects cartilage. When you have OA, your cartilage begins to break down and wear away, resulting in joint pain and stiffness. OA occurs more frequently when you get older and the pain can gradually worsen over time.

    Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel works similarly to oral NSAIDs like naproxen by temporarily blocking the production of pain-signaling chemicals called prostaglandins. It works by penetrating deep through skin to deliver NSAID medicine and relieve arthritis pain to help you seize the day.

  • What is the active ingredient in Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?

    The active ingredient in Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is diclofenac sodium, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It falls in the same class as other NSAIDs such as naproxen.

  • How is over-the-counter Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel different from prescription Voltaren Gel?

    Over-the-counter Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is the same strength and formula as original full prescription strength Voltaren Gel but is available without a prescription.

  • How is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel different from other over-the-counter topical pain relievers?

    Voltaren Gel is the first full prescription strength OTC topical NSAID gel for arthritis pain. Not all topicals treat pain the same way. Unlike most topicals which work by producing a heating or cooling sensation to distract from the pain, Voltaren Gel penetrates deep to relieve arthritis pain caused by inflammation by temporarily blocking the production of pain signaling chemicals.

  • What is the difference between topical and oral diclofenac?

    Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is often used to treat arthritis pain. It comes in both topical and oral forms.

    The FDA approval of Voltaren Arthritis Pain is specifically for the topical gel form. Voltaren Arthritis Pain does not offer an oral diclofenac form.

    Topical NSAIDs, such as Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel (diclofenac sodium 1%), should be considered prior to the use of oral NSAIDs, according to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Treatment Guidelines. The goal for this ACR guideline is for patients to achieve the lowest systemic exposure, which refers to the amount of NSAID medicine circulating in the bloodstream.

    As a topical gel, a smaller amount of diclofenac from Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel reaches the bloodstream compared with the oral form of diclofenac. In a clinical study, the systemic exposure with Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel was 6%, or 94% less than the systemic exposure with the oral NSAID diclofenac.

    Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is applied directly to the joints and penetrates through the skin on its way to the site of arthritis pain. Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel also gives you greater flexibility in managing your arthritis pain with FDA approval for use up to 21 days, while oral NSAIDs are indicated for use up to 10 days without consulting a doctor.

  • How is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel different from lidocaine products such as Icy Hot, Aspercreme, or Salonpas?

    How Voltaren Differs from Lidocaine Products
    • Show Transcript

      Text: How is Voltaren Different From Lidocaine Products Such As Icy Hot, Aspercreme, or Salonpas?

      VO: Unlike topical lidocaine products that work by desensitizing the nerves to numb away the pain, Voltaren contains a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine that treats pain by temporarily blocking the production of pain-signaling chemicals called prostaglandins.

      Text: Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory (NSAID) Medicine

      VO: Additionally, Voltaren is developed specifically to relieve arthritis joint pain. It’s the first full prescription strength OTC topical NSAID treatment for joint pain due to arthritis.

      Text: First full prescription strength

      Text: Use as directed

      Text: The joy of movement

    Unlike topical lidocaine product that works by desensitizing the nerves to numb away the pain, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel contains a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine that treats pain by temporarily blocking the production of pain-signaling chemicals called prostaglandins. Additionally, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is developed specifically to relieve arthritis joint pain. It’s the first full prescription strength OTC topical NSAID treatment for joint pain due to arthritis.

  • How is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel different from products such as Biofreeze, Icy Hot, Salonpas Pain Relieving Gel-Patch HOT, Aspercreme, and Bengay?

    Unlike other topicals that heat or cool the surface of the skin, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel contains a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine that treats pain by temporarily blocking the production of pain-signaling chemicals called prostaglandins. Additionally, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is developed specifically to relieve arthritis joint pain. It’s the first full prescription strength OTC topical NSAID treatment for joint pain due to arthritis.

    Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is FDA approved to be used daily for 21 days in a row while Salonpas Pain Relief Patch is approved for 3 days of use in a row before consulting a doctor.

  • How is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel different from Aleve?

    Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel works similarly to oral NSAIDs like naproxen by temporarily blocking the production of pain-signaling chemicals called prostaglandins. However, when taking a pill, the medication is distributed to the site of pain through the bloodstream. Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel works by penetrating deep through your skin to deliver medicine at the site of arthritis pain.

    Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is an alternative to oral analgesics such as Aleve. It targets pain directly at the source to deliver nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine for powerful arthritis pain relief. It’s the first full prescription strength nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory gel now available over the counter. And, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is FDA approved to be used 2x longer than Aleve*

    *21 days vs 10 days for Aleve before consulting a doctor.

  • How is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel different from Tylenol?

    How Voltaren Differs from Tylenol
    • Show Transcript

      Text: How is Voltaren Different from Tylenol?

      VO: Acetaminophen is not a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine. It works by elevating the body’s pain threshold, so you feel less pain.

      Text: Use as directed

      VO: Voltaren is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug or NSAID like naproxen. It works by temporarily blocking the production of pain-signaling chemicals called prostaglandins.

      Text: NSAID

      Text: Prostaglandins

      VO: Voltaren is an alternative to oral analgesics such as Tylenol and targets pain directly at the source. It’s the first full prescription strength nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory gel now available over the counter.

      Text: First full prescription strength

      Text: The joy of movement

    Acetaminophen is not a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine. It works by elevating the body’s pain threshold, so you feel less pain.

    Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) like naproxen. It works by temporarily blocking the production of pain-signaling chemicals called prostaglandins.

    Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is an alternative to oral analgesics such as Tylenol and targets pain directly at the source. It’s the first full prescription strength nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory gel now available over the counter. And, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is FDA approved to be used 2x longer than Tylenol at 21 days vs 10 days for Tylenol before consulting a doctor.

    Topical NSAIDS (Voltaren) should be considered prior to Acetaminophen, the primary ingredient in Tylenol, for knee osteoarthritis as per the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) OA Treatment Guidelines, leading professional arthritis association.

  • What is Voltaren Emulgel™?

    Voltaren Gel is made of a smooth, non-greasy formula that combines a gel and cream (Voltaren Emulgel™) for topical application. This specialized formula helps the active ingredient, diclofenac, penetrate through the skin at the site of pain. Unlike most topicals which work by producing a heating or cooling sensation to distract from the pain, Voltaren Gel penetrates deep to relieve arthritis pain caused by inflammation.

  • How will Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel feel on my body?

    When you apply Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel to the skin, it creates a cooling and moisturizing effect.

  • When does Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel start working?

    How Long Does it Take Voltaren to Start Working?
    • Show Transcript

      Text: When Does Voltaren Start Working?

      VO: Voltaren contains an effective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine which is clinically proven to relieve arthritis joint pain. With 4-times-a-day use, you may start to feel relief within a few days. You should feel significant pain relief within 7 days of continuous use.

      Text: Use as directed

      Text: The joy of movement

    In clinical studies, pain was not measured until 7 days of continuous use, at which time significant reductions in pain were observed compared to placebo. You may start to feel relief within a few days. However, you should feel significant pain relief within 7 days of continuous use. With Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel, you’re just 7 days away from a better morning.

  • Where can I buy Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?

    You can find Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel on our website as well as all major retailers, over-the-counter and online—no prescription is needed. Look for Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel where you purchase your current pain products.

  • Is there a discount for Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?

    Yes, there is a coupon available for a limited time on our website. You may use it to purchase your next Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel.

  • How is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel different?

    Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is made of a smooth, non-greasy formula that combines a gel and cream (Voltaren Emulgel™) for topical application. This specialized formula helps the active ingredient, diclofenac, penetrate through the skin at the site of pain. While most other topicals heat or cool the surface of the skin to mask the pain, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel goes further to treat the pain at its source by blocking the production of pain-signaling chemicals.

Usage

Safety

  • What if I miss a dose of Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?

    If you forget to apply Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel, don’t double your dose. Just apply the next dose as scheduled.

  • Can I take any other pain medications during the first 7 days when I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?

    Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you’re taking any other drug.

  • Can I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel if I’m under 18 years?

    Ask a doctor before use if you’re under 18 years. Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel was not studied in subjects under 18 years of age, so it is not known if this drug works or is safe in children under age 18 years.

  • Can I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel and Tylenol together?

    Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel if you are taking any other pain reliever or are planning on taking any other pain reliever, especially prescription or nonprescription NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or others).

  • Can I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel and Advil together?

    Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel if you are taking any other pain reliever or are planning on taking any other pain reliever, especially prescription or nonprescription NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or others).

  • Can I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel and Aleve together?

    Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel if you are taking any other pain reliever or are planning on taking any other pain reliever, especially prescription or nonprescription NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or others).

  • Can I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel if I’m pregnant?

    If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. It is especially important not to use diclofenac at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless definitely directed to do so by a doctor because it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery.

  • Can I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel if I’m breastfeeding?

    Ask a health professional before use.

  • Can Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel be used with other medications?

    Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you’re taking any other drug.

  • Do I need to wash my hands after applying Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?

    Yes. Wash your hands after using Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel. If your hands are the treated area, wait up to 1 hour to wash the hands. Wash the dosing card with water too. You should always store the dosing card and tube out of reach of children as well.

  • What do I do if I get Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel in my eyes?

    If eye contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. Consult a physician if irritation persists for more than an hour.

  • Is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel a narcotic drug?

    No, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel contains a non-narcotic pain-relieving drug called diclofenac sodium.

  • Is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel opioid-free?

    Yes, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is a non-opioid topical arthritis pain treatment. The active ingredient in Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is diclofenac sodium. Diclofenac sodium is not an opioid.

  • Is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel addictive? Will it cause withdrawal symptoms?

    No, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). NSAIDs are not habit forming and do not demonstrate addictive properties.

  • Is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel paraben-free?

    Yes. Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is paraben-free.

  • Is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel dye-free?

    Yes. Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is dye-free.

  • How should I store Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?

    You should store it at 68-77°F (20-25°C).

    • Do not freeze Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel
    • Store your dosing card with your Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel
    • Keep it out of reach of children
  • What is the safety profile of Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?

    Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel, when used as directed, is a well-tolerated and effective OTC arthritis pain reliever. Please refer to the full product labeling for additional safety information related to Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel.

  • What are the side effects of Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?

    Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel, when used as directed, is well-tolerated and effective at relieving arthritis pain. As with all medicines, however, some side effects may occur. Please refer to the full product labeling below:

    Warnings:For external use only

    Allergy alert: Diclofenac may cause a severe allergic reaction, especially in people allergic to aspirin.

    Symptoms may include: - asthma (wheezing) - skin reddening - blisters - facial swelling - shock - rash

    If an allergic reaction occurs, stop use and seek medical help right away.

    Liver warning: This product contains diclofenac. Liver damage may occur if you apply - more or for a longer time than directed - when using other drugs containing diclofenac

    Stomach bleeding warning: This product contains an NSAID, which may cause severe stomach bleeding. The chance is small but higher if you - are age 60 or older - have had stomach ulcers or bleeding problems - take a blood thinning (anticoagulant) or steroid drug - take other drugs containing prescription or nonprescription NSAIDs (aspirin, diclofenac, naproxen, or others) - have 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using this product - apply more or for longer than directed

    Heart attack and stroke warning: NSAIDs, except aspirin, increase the risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. These can be fatal. The risk is higher if you use more than directed or for longer than directed.

    Do not use: If you have ever had an allergic reaction to any other pain reliever/fever reducer - for strains, sprains, bruises or sports injuries. This product has not been shown to work for these types of injuries. - right before or after heart surgery - on more than 2 body areas at the same time - in the eyes, nose or mouth

    Ask a doctor before use if - you have problems or serious side effects from taking pain relievers or fever reducers - stomach bleeding warning applies to you - you have a history of stomach problems, such as heartburn - you have high blood pressure, heart disease, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, asthma, or had a stroke - you are taking a diuretic - you are under age 18 years. It is not shown if this drug works or is safe in children under age 18 years

    Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are - under a doctor’s care for any serious condition - taking any other drug

    When using this product - avoid contact with eyes, nose, or mouth - if eye contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water

    Stop use and ask a doctor if - pain gets worse or lasts more than 21 days - redness or swelling is present in the painful area - fever occurs - skin irritation occurs - any new symptoms appear - you experience any of the following signs of stomach bleeding:

    - feel faint

    - have bloody or black stools

    - have bloody or black stools

    - vomit blood

    - have stomach pain that does not get better

    - you have symptoms of heart problems or stroke:

    - chest pain

    - trouble breathing

    - leg swelling

    - weakness in one part or side of body

    - slurred speech

    If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. It is especially important not to use diclofenac at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy unless definitely directed to do so by a doctor because it may cause problems in the unborn child or complications during delivery.

    Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away.

ORDERS AND SHIPPING

Orders and Shipping

  • What payment options can I use?

    When ordering Voltaren products online, you can use the four major credit/debit cards, VISA, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express, to complete your order. If you are eligible for a coupon, you may use it to purchase your next Voltaren product.

  • When will my order be shipped?

    Most orders will be shipped and delivered within 5-7 business days. There will be exceptions because the Voltaren products ordered online come from selected retailers not the main warehouse. Please check the confirmation email to check the progress of your order.

  • What shipping service is used for orders?

    All Voltaren orders are powered by Shoppable.

Feel The Joy Of Movement

No matter the day, the hour, or what you’re doing, embrace the joy of movement with the help of specialized products from Voltaren: powerful gel for arthritis pain or drug-free, dietary supplements for healthy joints.*

Voltaren Arthritis Pain Relieving Gel Package
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Relieving Gel Package

For Arthritis Pain Relief

DISCOVER MORE

Dietary Supplements from Voltaren in Packaging

For Healthy Joints*

SEE PRODUCTS

Use as directed. Voltaren is approved for treatment of arthritis pain.

Dietary supplements from Voltaren are not intended to treat arthritis pain.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.