Voltaren (Diclofenac Sodium)

Indications

Voltaren (diclofenac sodium) is a medication used to treat pain and inflammation. It belongs to the class of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Voltaren works by blocking the production of certain natural substances in the body that cause inflammation and pain.

Diclofenac Sodium is widely used to treat a variety of conditions including back pain, osteoarthritis, gout, and tendonitis. Voltaren is widely used to relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other forms of inflammatory arthritis. Voltaren has been available on the market since the 1970s and has become one of the most popular drugs to treat these types of conditions.

Voltaren oral tablets are an effective and popular treatment for mild to moderate pain, as well as the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Voltaren can be used to treat ankylosing spondylitis, a chronic inflammatory disease of the spine.

Uses and Dosage

Voltaren (Diclofenac Sodium) comes in the form of a tablet to be taken by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually 2-4 times a day. If you experience stomach upset while taking this medication, you may take it with food, milk, or an antacid to help reduce this side effect. However, doing so may slow the absorption of the medication and delay pain relief.

Voltaren (Diclofenac Sodium) tablets should be swallowed whole without crushing, chewing, or breaking the tablets. Doing so can increase the risk of stomach upset. If stomach upset occurs, you may take it with food, milk, or an antacid, although this may slow absorption and delay pain relief. It should be taken with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this medication.

The usual starting dose of Voltaren tablets is 50-100 mg each day, taken as soon as cramps begin. The dose can be increased over several menstrual cycles, if necessary, up to a maximum of 200 mg per day but should not be taken for longer than 3 days. Voltaren tablets should not be used in children under 12 years of age. If your symptoms are not relieved by the recommended dose, speak to your doctor or healthcare provider.

Side Effects

Common Voltaren Side Effects May Include:

• Abnormal lab tests
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Headache, dizziness, or drowsiness
• Increased blood pressure
• Indigestion, gas, nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain
• Itching or sweating
• Stuffy nose
• Swelling or pain in your arms or legs

Serious Side Effects of Diclofenac Sodium

• Flu-like symptoms
• Heart problems - swelling, rapid weight gain, feeling short of breath
• Kidney problems - little or no urinating, painful or difficult urination, swelling in your arms or legs, feeling tired or short of breath
• Liver problems - nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain (upper right side), tiredness, itching, dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Signs of stomach bleeding - bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• The first sign of any skin rash, no matter how mild

Form and Strength

Voltaren is available in the following forms and strengths:

Voltaren: Tablet

• 50 mg

Diclofenac Sodium: Delayed Release Tablet

• 25 mg
• 50 mg

Caution

• When taking Voltaren (diclofenac sodium) orally, avoid drinking alcohol, as this may increase your risk of stomach bleeding. Avoid taking other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or aspirin with Voltaren unless your healthcare provider tells you it is okay to do so.
• Avoid using Voltaren Gel in higher doses than the recommended amount, as doing so can increase the risk for serious side effects, including sudden gastrointestinal bleeding, stroke, or heart attack.
• Avoid using Voltaren Suppositories if you suffer from inflammation of the rectum (back passage) or if your rectum is painful (sometimes with bleeding or discharge). Doing so can increase the risk of serious side effects, such as rectal burns, rectal bleeding, and rectal ulcers.
• Using Voltaren during the last 3 months of pregnancy can affect the baby and may delay labor and birth. If you are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant, it is important to speak to your doctor or healthcare provider before using Voltaren.
• Be aware that using non-aspirin NSAIDs, such as diclofenac, can increase the risk of miscarriage, particularly when taken close to the time of conception. Therefore, it is important to speak to your doctor or healthcare provider.
• Taking diclofenac can increase the risk of gastrointestinal problems such as stomach ulcer, bleeding, or black stools. Additionally, if you have experienced stomach discomfort or heartburn after taking anti-inflammatory medicines in the past, speak to your doctor or healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does Voltaren 100mg take to work?

Diclofenac takes 20 to 30 minutes to work if you take it as tablets.

How many Voltaren tablets can I take?

Adults initially take two tablets at the onset of symptoms. Another one to two tablets may be taken every 8 hours, as necessary. No more than 4 tablets (200mg) should be taken in any 24-hour period.

What other drugs will affect Voltaren?

Ask your doctor before using Voltaren if you take an antidepressant. Taking certain antidepressants with an NSAID may cause you to bruise or bleed easily.

Resources

• https://www.rxlist.com/voltaren-drug.htm#description
• https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-4284-4049/diclofenac-oral/diclofenac-sodium-enteric-coated-tablet-oral/details
• https://www.news-medical.net/drugs/Voltaren.aspx
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/diclofenac-oral-route/description/drg-20069748
• https://www.drugs.com/voltaren.html