Voltaren is in a group of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Diclofenac works by blocking the enzyme in your body that makes prostaglandins. Decreasing prostaglandins helps to reduce pain, swelling, and fever. Diclofenac sodium is a phenylacetic acid that has analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity. It is believed to act through the reversible inhibition of the cyclo-oxygenase enzymes COX-1 and COX-2 that are essential in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins.

What is diclofenac used for?

Voltaren is used to relieve pain, swelling (inflammation), and joint stiffness caused by arthritis. Reducing these symptoms helps you do more of your normal daily activities. Voltaren is indicated for relief of the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis, for relief of the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and for acute or long-term use in the relief of the signs and symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis. Voltaren may also be used to treat other painful conditions like dental pain, muscle aches, pain after surgery or after having a baby.

Before using diclofenac

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to use diclofenac, or you may need a dosage adjustment or special tests during treatment: a history of heart attack, stroke, or blood clot; heart disease, congestive heart failure, high blood pressure; a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding; liver or kidney disease, asthma; polyps in your nose; a bleeding or blood clotting disorder; or if you smoke.

How should I use diclofenac?

Take this medication by mouth with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking this drug. Swallow this medication whole. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets. Doing so can destroy the special coating on the tablet and may increase side effects.

If you experience stomach upset with this medication, you may take it with food, milk, or an antacid. However, this may slow absorption and delay pain relief, especially if you are not taking this medication on a regular schedule. If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

If you are taking this drug on an "as needed" basis (not on a regular schedule), remember that pain medications work best if they are used as the first signs of pain occur. If you wait until the pain has significantly worsened, the medicine may not work as well.

Important information about diclofenac

Drug interactions

This drug should not be used with the following medications because very serious interactions may occur: high doses of aspirin and related drugs (salicylates), cidofovir, other NSAIDs (e.g., ketorolac).

Preganacy

This medication may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Taking diclofenac during the last 3 months of pregnancy may result in birth defects. Do not take diclofenac during pregnancy unless your doctor has told you to. Diclofenac can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give this medicine to a child without the advice of a doctor.

Overdose

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. The symptoms of Voltaren overdose may include: acute kidney failure, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, lung inflammation, nausea, vomiting.

Diclofenac side effects

Side effects may include: abdominal bleeding, abdominal pain or cramps, abdominal swelling, anemia, blood clotting problems, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, fluid retention, gas, headache, heartburn, indigestion, itching, nausea, peptic ulcers, rash, ringing in the ears, vomiting.

General information

This product description does not cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have any other questions about diclofenac, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.