- Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is an OTC, prescription‑strength topical NSAID with diclofenac sodium designed to relieve arthritis joint pain caused by inflammation.3
- It targets pain at the source by penetrating the skin to help block pain‑signaling chemicals, unlike other topicals that only heat or cool the surface.3
- Voltaren Arthritis Pain gel is approved for use on specific joints only—hands, wrists, elbows, knees, ankles and feet—and can be used on up to two body areas at a time.
- Apply Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel four times daily for up to 21 days, with significant pain relief typically felt within 7 days of continuous use.
VOLTAREN ARTHRITIS PAIN GEL
General
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How do I know if I have arthritis?
The most common symptoms associated with arthritis 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.
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What is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel used for?
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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.2 When you have OA, your cartilage begins to break down and wear away, resulting in joint pain and stiffness.2 OA occurs more frequently when you get older and the pain can gradually worsen over time.2
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel works similarly to oral NSAIDs like naproxen by temporarily blocking the production of pain-signaling chemicals called prostaglandins.3 It works by penetrating deep through skin to deliver NSAID medicine and help relieve arthritis pain to help you seize the day.
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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.
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How is over-the-counter Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel different from prescription Voltaren Gel?
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How is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel different from other over-the-counter topical pain relievers?
Voltaren Arthritis Pain 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 Arthritis Pain Gel penetrates deep to help relieve arthritis pain caused by inflammation by temporarily blocking the production of pain-signaling chemicals.3
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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.4 It comes in both topical and oral forms.4
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.5 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.4,5 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.
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How is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel different from lidocaine products such as Icy Hot, Aspercreme, or Salonpas?
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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 products that work 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.3 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.
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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.3
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 up to 21 days in a row, while Salonpas Arthritis Pain Relf is approved for 5 days of use in a row before consulting a doctor.
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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.3 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 into 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 its source, delivering nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication 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.
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How is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel different from Tylenol?
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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 is thought to work by elevating the body’s pain threshold, so you feel less pain.6
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel contains a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by temporarily blocking the production of pain-signaling chemicals called prostaglandins.3
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, a leading professional guideline for treatment of osteoarthritis.
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What is Voltaren Emulgel™?
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. Unlike most topicals, which work by producing a heating or cooling sensation to distract from the pain, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel penetrates deep to relieve arthritis pain caused by inflammation.3
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How will Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel feel on my body?
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When does Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel start working?
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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.
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Where can I buy Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?
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Is there a discount for Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?
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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 distract the pain, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel goes further to treat the pain at its source by temporarily blocking the production of pain-signaling chemicals.
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Does Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel come in a roll-on?
Usage
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How to open Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?
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How to use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?
Use the dosing card to measure the correct dose. Gently rub Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel into the skin using your hand. You should apply it 4 times a day for best results. Only apply to clean, dry skin that doesn’t have any cuts, open wounds, infections, or rashes. Do not apply in the same area as any other medicine or products applied to the skin.
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Can I apply Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel to the upper and lower body areas at the same time?
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Why can’t I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel for shoulders, hips, etc.?
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Can Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel be used for muscle or back pain?
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Can Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel be used for knee pain?
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is indicated for the relief of arthritis pain in the knee, ankle, foot, hand, wrist and elbow to make mornings less uncomfortable and daily tasks less painful..
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, a leading professional guideline for treatment osteoarthritis.
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Can I apply Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel without measuring it out on the dosing card first?
No. We recommend using the dosing card to make sure you are getting the correct amount of medicine.
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How do I measure the correct amount with the dosing card?
There are different amounts for upper- and lower-body pain. For upper body areas, squeeze gel from the tube equal to the amount shown on the upper body section of the dosing card (2.25 inches). For lower body areas, squeeze gel from the tube equal to the amount shown on the lower body section of the dosing card (4.5 inches).
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How often should I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?
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How long should I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?
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How long does Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel take to work?
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How many times a day can I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?
Safety
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What if I miss a dose of Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?
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Can I take any other pain medications during the first 7 days when I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?
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Can I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel if I’m under 18 years?
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Can I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel and Tylenol together?
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Can I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel and Advil together?
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Can I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel and Aleve together?
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Can I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel if I’m pregnant?
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Can I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel if I’m breastfeeding?
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Can Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel be used with other medications?
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Do I need to wash my hands after applying Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?
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What do I do if I get Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel in my eyes?
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Is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel a narcotic drug?
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Is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel opioid-free?
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Is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel addictive? Will it cause withdrawal symptoms?
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Is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel paraben-free?
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Is Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel dye-free?
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How should I store Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?
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What is the safety profile of Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?
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Who should not use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel?
Do not use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a pain reliever or fever reducer (including diclofenac, aspirin, or other NSAIDs), if you are treating strains, sprains, bruises, or sports injuries, if you are right before or after heart surgery, on more than two body areas at the same time, or in the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Ask a doctor before use if you have a history of stomach bleeding or ulcers, heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, liver or kidney disease, asthma, or if you take blood thinners, diuretics, or other NSAIDs, are under 18, or are pregnant or breastfeeding—especially at 20 weeks or later in pregnancy. Stop use and seek medical advice if pain worsens or lasts more than 21 days, skin irritation occurs, new symptoms appear, or you notice signs of stomach bleeding, heart, or stroke symptoms.
Always use only as directed on the label.
ORDERS AND SHIPPING
Orders and Shipping
Source Citations:
- Arthritis. MedLine Plus. https://medlineplus.gov/arthritis.html. Accessed 03/13/2026.
- Ossteoarthritis – Symptoms & Causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351925. Accessed 03/13/2026.
- NSAIDs. Arthritis Foundation. https://www.arthritis.org/drug-guide/nsaids/nsaids. Accessed 03/13/2026.
- Diclofenac topical solution compared with oral diclofenac: a pooled safety analysis. PubMed Central. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3141832/. Accessed 03/16/2026.
- Topical NSAIDs Offer Joint Pain Relief. Arthritis Foundation. https://www.arthritis.org/drug-guide/medication-topics/topical-nsaids-offer-joint-pain-relief. Accessed 03/16/2026.
- NSAIDs vs. Acetaminophen: Which Over-the-Counter Medicine Should I Use? Yale Medicine. https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/acetaminophen-nsaids-over-the-counter-pain-relievers. Accessed 03/16/2026.