Voltaren is considered an anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and its great ability to treat pain prompts some doctors to prescribe it to patients with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis. “Delly Medical” reviews in the following report the reasons for using Voltaren, its contraindications, doses, and side effects.

What is Voltaren ointment?

 

Voltaren is the brand name of a topical gel used to relieve arthritis pain that contains diclofenac sodium as the active ingredient. You can also find similar gels used to treat joint pain under the generic name "diclofenac gel" or "diclofenac sodium gel." However, these products may differ in the ingredients or amounts of diclofenac compared to Voltaren ointment, which is available over-the-counter and contains a 1% concentration of diclofenac sodium.

**Types of Voltaren ointment**

 

Voltaren ointments are effective in relieving pain and reducing its severity, in addition to their anti-inflammatory properties. Voltaren products are available in all pharmacies, and are considered one of the creams used to treat muscle pain. There are two main types of Voltaren ointment:

1. **Voltaren Gel Blue Ointment**

2. **Voltaren Emulgel Orange Ointment**

Both types are used to relieve pain and inflammation thanks to them containing the active ingredient diclofenac, but there are differences between them in terms of the concentration of the active ingredient and the number of times daily use.

**The difference between blue and orange Voltaren Gel ointment:**

 

1. **Duration of effectiveness:**

 - Voltaren Blue Gel ointment provides pain relief for up to 12 hours, and works to relieve joint and muscle pain thanks to the high concentration of the active ingredient.

 Voltaren Orange Ointment can be used without the need for a prescription, and is considered part of first aid, as it is characterized by its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

2. **Concentration of the active ingredient:**

 Each gram of Voltaren Blue Gel ointment contains 23.2% of the active ingredient, which allows it to penetrate deeply into the skin when applied to the site of pain.

 - Voltaren Orange ointment also contains diclofenac, which has a strong effect on the cyclooxygenase enzyme.

3. **Quality of effect:**

 Voltaren Blue Gel ointment is considered a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, and differs from the types of cold gel or hot patches that work to heat or cool the skin. The blue gel directly affects the affected tissues thanks to diclofenac.

 - People over the age of 12 years can use Voltaren Orange ointment, which is applied to the site of pain three to four times daily, and is used in cases of swelling, tearing, and bruising.

4. **Odors:**

 Voltaren Blue Gel ointment does not contain any odors, and to obtain effective results, it is recommended to use it for 14 days in cases of tearing or stretching of ligaments or muscles.

When using Voltaren ointment to treat arthritis, it is recommended to use it for only twenty-one days, and this period must not be exceeded except under the supervision of a specialist doctor. It is also preferable to consult a doctor if the pain does not improve after seven days of use.

As for Voltaren Orange, it is effective in treating bone joint pain and reducing inflammation, and is characterized by its cool and comfortable feel on the skin. It is sufficient to use a small amount equivalent to a walnut to apply it to the site of pain, as every hundred grams of Voltaren Emulgel ointment contains 11.6 grams of the active ingredient, that is, half the concentration of the active ingredient found in Voltaren Blue Gel ointment.

Voltaren Blue Ointment is used in the morning and evening, and it is recommended to massage the affected area well to ensure effective absorption of the ointment. It can also be used to treat tendonitis pain and inflammation of the finger and knee joints. However, you should be aware that Voltaren Blue Gel ointment may cause side effects such as redness or irritation of the skin, so it is best to read the attached instructions for use and consult a doctor if necessary.

As for Voltaren Orange, despite its many benefits, it may also cause redness or irritation to the skin. If this happens, it is recommended to consult a doctor, also if the pain continues for fourteen days without improvement. Voltaren ointment is characterized by its lack of odors, in addition to its non-greasy texture.

**When does Voltaren gel take effect?**

 

Voltaren gel takes effect 12 hours after use. The gels in Voltaren Gel work to relieve pain and provide comfort, as there are three products available within the Voltaren Gel group, all of which aim to relieve pain and reduce inflammation and swelling in the muscles and joints resulting from inflammation. Voltaren Gel's effect lasts for 3 weeks when used to relieve arthritis pain in the knees and fingers, and 2 weeks in case of soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains, bruises and rheumatism.

Products include:

- Voltaren Emulgel No Mess Applicator

- Voltaren Osteo Gel 12 Hourly

-Voltaren Emulgel

**Benefits of Voltaren Gel**

 

- Available to everyone without the need for a prescription in simple cases.

- It is considered an effective pain reliever and approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

- It is a good alternative to pills if you do not want to use them.

- Contributes to alleviating the signs and symptoms of osteoporosis.

- Reduces the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

- It effectively relieves pain.

- It has a prolonged effect due to its therapeutic properties.

- Helps reduce swelling in affected areas.

**Using Voltaren ointment for breastfeeding mothers**

 

It is not recommended to use Voltaren ointment during the breastfeeding period, as it may be unsafe, as using it for a long time and over large areas can cause harm to the infant. However, if there is an urgent need to use it, this should be done under the supervision of a specialist doctorAnd for a short time.

**Voltaren cream doses**

 

The package should contain dosage labels to help determine the appropriate amount to use, which ranges from 2 to 4 grams. The gel is applied along the dosage line indicated on the card. The recommended doses for Voltaren 1% cream are as follows:

- **Upper extremities**: Apply 2 grams to the affected area of ​​the hand, elbow, or wrist, 4 times daily, and doses should not exceed 8 grams.

- **Lower extremities**: This means the leg, ankle, and knee. 4 grams of the cream are applied to the affected area about 4 times daily, and doses should not exceed 16 grams.

Is Voltaren Gel 12 Hours the most appropriate option for my condition?

Voltaren Gel 12 Hour is the ideal treatment for people who suffer from pain and inflammation in the muscles or joints that persist throughout the day. This gel relieves joint and muscle pain and reduces inflammation. If you want to continue your daily activities, Voltaren Gel 12 Hours can help you restore your normal lifestyle by providing long-lasting pain relief. It should be noted that Voltaren Gel 12 Hour should not be used for more than 14 days for soft tissue injuries, and 21 days for osteoarthritis, unless the doctor recommends prolonged treatment. It is also recommended not to use the gel for children under 12 years of age.

Does Voltaren Gel 12 Hour pain relief last throughout the day?

 

Voltaren Gel 12 Hour should be used twice daily, approximately 12 hours apart (morning and evening), to provide effective protection from pain and inflammation throughout the day. Regular use (according to the instructions) contributes to the formation of a reserve of the active ingredient diclofenac, which penetrates deep into the layers of the skin, making it the main source of continuous treatment throughout the day.

What distinguishes Voltaren Gel 12 hours?

 

Voltaren 12 Hour Gel provides focused pain relief that lasts throughout the day by targeting sources of pain and inflammation. By using the gel twice daily (morning and evening), a reserve of diclofenac is created, providing the skin with an effective source of pain relief throughout the day (when used regularly according to instructions). The advanced Emulgel technology used in Voltaren Gel 12 Hours also helps the active ingredient diclofenac to penetrate deep into the layers of the skin to reach the site of pain and swelling.

When should you avoid using Voltaren 12 Hour Gel?

 

You should refrain from using Voltaren 12 Hour Gel in the following cases:

- If you are allergic to diclofenac, propylene glycol, isopropyl alcohol, butylated hydroxytoluene, or any of the other components of the product.

- During the last three months of pregnancy.

- If there is a previous history of asthma attacks or allergic reactions after taking aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as diclofenac or ibuprofen.

- If you have any other health condition or are taking medications, including non-prescription medicines, you should consult a pharmacist or doctor to ensure that Voltaren 12 Hour Gel is suitable for your condition. It is also recommended to read the product information leaflet on the back of the package carefully before starting to use it.

Voltaren 12 Hour Gel should be used on healthy skin only, and should not be applied to wounds, inflamed areas, or any other area suffering from an abnormal skin condition.

Voltaren 12 Hour Gel is also contraindicated for use with bandages that prevent the passage of air or fluids, but it can be used with bandages that allow air to pass through. For more information about how to use Voltaren products, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

What is the mechanism of action of Voltaren gel?

 

Voltaren gel contains the active ingredient diclofenac, which is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory. The gel is applied by gently massaging it on the affected area, where it is quickly absorbed by the skin to relieve pain, reduce inflammation and speed up the healing process. Unlike hot massage products that mask pain superficially, Voltaren Gel penetrates through the skin into the underlying tissue to address the cause of the pain.

Do not use the product in the presence of any skin injury or disease, or apply it to an open wound or under a closed bandage. Voltaren Gel's unique formula, in addition to its light scent, combines the properties of gel and cream, helping to cool and soothe the skin.

Choose the right product.

 

**Voltaren gel**

The Voltaren Gel set includes two products: Voltaren EmailGel and Voltaren 12 Hour Gel. Both products help relieve osteoarthritis pain, but each has its own unique properties that make it more suitable for certain conditions.

**Voltaren EmailGel**

It contains 1.16% of the active ingredient diclofenac diethylamine, and can be used three to four times daily.

**Voltaren Gel 12 Hours**

It contains 2.32% of the active ingredient diclofenac diethylamine, and can be applied to the affected area twice daily, preferably once in the morning and once in the evening. Voltaren gel should not be used to treat osteoarthritis pain for more than three weeks unless directed by a doctor. If you have another health condition or are taking different medications, it is recommended that you consult your doctor to ensure that products containing NSAIDs can be used safely. You should also not use two products containing NSAIDs at the same time.

**Warnings for using Voltaren gel:**

 

- Avoid applying the cream to open wounds, inflamed areas, or peeling skin.

- Be careful not to let the cream come into contact with the eyes or mucous membranes.

- It is prohibited to shower or wash the area that was applied with the cream for a period ranging from 30 minutes to an hour.

-You must wait until the treated area driesUse caution before applying sunscreen, insect repellent, moisturizers, cosmetics, or other topical medications.

- Avoid exposing the areas treated with the cream to any heat source, such as sunlight.

**Can Voltaren be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding?**

 

**Voltaren during pregnancy:**

The possibility of harm to the fetus cannot be ruled out if the mother takes this medication during pregnancy.

**Voltaren during breastfeeding:**

There is a potential risk to infants if any component of the medicine reaches them through breast milk.

**Drug interactions with Voltaren:**

Voltaren affects the effectiveness of the following drugs:

- Ketorolac

- Amitriptyline

- Aspirin

- Betamethasone

- Chlorothiazide

- Citalopram

- Clomipramine

-Clopamide

- Clopidogrel

- Cortisone

- Cyclosporine

- Dexamethasone

- Dexketoprofen

- Diazoxide

- Digoxin

- Doxepin

-Droxicam

- Escitalopram

- Fluoxetine

- Furosemide

- Heparin

- Hydrochlorothiazide

- Hydrocortisone

- Ibuprofen

- Ketoprofen

- Lornoxicam

- Meloxicam

- Methotrexate

- Methyclothiazide

- Naproxen

- Nimesulide

- Olsalazine

- Paroxetine

- Piroxicam

- Prednisolone

- Prednisone

- Sertraline

- Sibutramine

- Spironolactone

-Tacrolimus

- Tenoxicam

- Torasemide

- Trimipramine

-Valdecoxib

- Warfarin

Voltaren also reduces the effectiveness of the following medications:

- Atenolol

- Bisoprolol

-Captopril

- Carvedilol

- Ciprofloxacin

- Enalapril

- Eprosartan

-Irbesartan

- Metoprolol

- Propranolol

- Ramipril

- Spirapril

- Telmisartan

- Timolol

- Valsartan

**Side effects of Voltaren:**

 

- **Blood:** Disorders in blood clotting.

**Eye:** Burning sensation by 15%, keratitis by 28%, increased tear production by 30%, and increased intraocular pressure by 15%.

- **Cardiovascular:** High blood pressure, angioedema, heart attacks, congestive heart failure, and myocardial infarction.

- **Skin:** Exfoliative dermatitis and Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

- **Endocrine glands and metabolism:** High level of potassium in the blood.

- **Digestive system:** Bleeding in the digestive system, perforation of the digestive system, ulcers, inflammation of the digestive system, and pancreatitis.

- **Blood:** Agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia, hemolytic anemia, and bleeding.

- **Liver:** Hepatitis, jaundice, and liver failure.

- **Kidney:** Acute kidney failure.

- **Immune system:** hypersensitivity.

- **Respiratory system:** Bronchospasm in asthma patients.

**Uses of Voltaren Gel:**

 

Voltaren Gel is used to treat joint pain, stiffness, and swelling resulting from osteoarthritis, as it contributes to reducing inflammation and pain. It is only approved for use in arm and leg joints, and its effectiveness has not been studied in the thighs or spine. Therefore, it is recommended not to use it to treat muscle pain in other areas of the body, such as the lower back.

**How ​​to use Voltaren ointment**

 

Voltaren Gel is distinguished from other creams and gels used to relieve joint pain, as it contains a powerful anti-inflammatory drug that is absorbed through the skin. To avoid any side effects, you should not exceed the dose or number of times of use specified on the package.

The package of Voltaren Gel comes with a card explaining how to measure the appropriate dose, which is either 2 grams or 4 grams, depending on the affected joint. It is recommended not to use the gel on more than two areas of the body at one time. Here's how to use:

- **For hands, wrists or elbows**: Apply 2 grams to the affected joint up to four times daily, and do not exceed 8 grams daily to any of these joints.

- **For feet, ankles or knees**: Apply 4 grams to the affected joint up to four times daily, and do not exceed 16 grams daily to any of these joints.

Gently massage the gel on the affected area, and you are supposed to continue using it for up to 21 days. With use four times daily, you may feel relief within a few days, but discontinue use and consult a doctor if pain worsens or persists for more than 21 days.

The dosing card is made of clear plastic, and the gel should be applied within the rectangular area up to the line marked for 2 grams or 4 grams (depending on the affected area). A 2g line is 2.25 inches long, while a 4g line is 4.5 inches long.

After using the dosing card, hold it with your fingertips, rinse it with water and dry it. If the gel site is the hands, you should wait at least one hour before washing the hands. It is best to keep the package at a temperature between 20 - 25 °C (68 - 77 °F) and avoid freezing.

**Contraindications for the use of Voltaren Emulgel**

 

Although Voltaren ointment is effective in relieving pain and inflammation, there are cases in which its use is contraindicated due to its active ingredients and others. Here are the cases in which you should avoid using Voltaren Gel:

1. Pregnant women are prohibited from using it during the last three months of pregnancy to avoid any harm to the fetus.

2. It is prohibited to use it if there is an allergy to its components such as diclofenac, butylated hydroxytoluene, or propylene glycol.

3. If the person has previously suffered from asthma or had an allergic reaction to aspirin.

4. A specialist doctor should be consulted if the person is taking other medications in conjunction with Voltaren.

5. Voltaren Emulgel should not be used on open wounds or unhealthy skin, as it should only be used on healthy skin.

6. Do not use with bandages that are not permeable to air or liquids.

7. People who suffer from chest allergies are prohibited from using Voltaren ointment.

8. It is prohibited to use it on heart patients.

9. It is prohibited for use by people suffering from diseaseDiabetes or high blood pressure.

10. It is not recommended for use by patients with kidney and liver diseases.

In addition, there are other risks including:

 

- The possibility of stomach bleeding in the event of an ulcer, due to diclofenac.

- Increased risk of heart attack in heart patients and diabetics.

- Increased risk of stroke in heart patients and diabetics.

- High cholesterol levels in the body when used for a long time.

- High blood pressure when used for a long time.

- It may cause difficulty in getting pregnant due to diclofenac.

- It may lead to constipation, excessive sweating, and itching.

**Contraindications for using Voltaren Gel ointment for children**

 

Children are prohibited from using Voltaren ointment in the following cases:

1. If the child suffers from an allergy to the components of the ointment.

2. Voltaren ointment is contraindicated for people to whom acetylsalicylic acid may cause health problems.

3. Voltaren ointment is contraindicated for people who suffer from asthma or severe inflammation of the nasal mucus, because it contains a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug.

**Effects of Voltaren on the kidneys**

 

The use of Voltaren is associated with several side effects, some of which may negatively affect kidney function, especially when used incorrectly and without medical supervision. Voltaren pills and injections reduce the secretion of the hormone prostaglandin, which protects the kidneys from damage, which reduces the ability of the kidneys to protect themselves over time. This may lead to kidney damage with prolonged use, and in some rare cases, a single dose may result in visible damage.

**Some symptoms of kidney problems associated with Voltaren include:**

- Little or no urination.

- Difficulty or pain during urination.

- Swelling in the extremities such as the hands and feet.

- Feeling tired and exhausted.

- shortness of breath.

In rare cases, Voltaren may cause serious damage to the kidneys, including:

- Nephrotic syndrome, which involves damage to the essential filters for kidney function.

- Interstitial nephritis, which is an inflammation of the spaces between the kidney's filters.

- Kidney damage.

- Kidney failure.

- Death of kidney cells.

- Poor kidney function.