Is there any difference between the prescription version of Voltaren and the OTC version? No. The new OTC version of Voltaren gel will contain 1% of the active ingredient, diclofenac, which is the same strength that previously required a prescription.
Official answer. Ibuprofen is not as potent as diclofenac and is a safer choice for the general public, hence the decision to restrict the availability of diclofenac.
The OTC version of Voltaren topical gel contains 1% of diclofenac, which is the same active ingredient and strength that previously required a prescription.
Voltaren is a full prescription strength non-steroidal anti-inflammatory gel. The active ingredient in Voltaren is diclofenac sodium, a NSAID that works by temporarily blocking the production of pain-signaling chemicals called prostaglandins. Voltaren treats pain at the source.
Voltaren is available in two different forms: gel and spray.
Contains a permeation enhancer to increase penetration of diclofenac through the skin. For patients looking for the relief of pain associated with acute, localized muscle or joint injuries such as sprains, strains or sports injuries.
Lidocaine is an anesthetic and works by blocking nerve conduction to numb the feeling of pain. This makes the lidocaine versions of Aspercreme, Icy Hot, and Bengay better for nerve pain than Voltaren.
How long does Voltaren gel stay in your system? It may take up to 7 days to feel the full effects of Voltaren gel. The medication typically reaches its highest level in the body roughly 10 to 14 hours after applying it. Diclofenac sodium (the medication in Voltaren gel) can stay in the body for nearly 3 weeks.
If the pain is not relieved within 2 hours, a further 1 to 2 tablets may be taken. After that dose, you must wait at least 4 hours before taking any more Voltaren Rapid 25. Do not take more than 8 tablets in 24 hours, for relief of any of the above conditions.
How long does Voltaren gel take to relieve pain? It doesn't take long for Voltaren to get to work. For neck pain relief, for instance, a study shows that Voltaren reduces the pain felt upon movement, after just one hour of application; and that it cuts pain in half within 24 hours.
Voltaren products come in a variety of formats, and it is important that you find the one that best suits your preferences. Factors to consider include the root cause of your pain, where on your body it is, the result you want from your pain relief, and personal preference.
Diclofenac tablets and capsules can cause an ulcer in your stomach or gut if you take them for a long time or in big doses, or if you're elderly or in poor general health. Your doctor may tell you not to take diclofenac if you have a stomach ulcer or have had one in the past.
Why can't I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel for shoulders, hips, etc.? Voltaren has not been studied for the relief of arthritis pain in the shoulders, hips, and back.
What is the strongest anti-inflammatory medication? Research shows diclofenac is the strongest and most effective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine available.10 Diclofenec is sold under the prescription brand names Cambia, Cataflam, Zipsor, and Zorvolex.
Lidoderm (lidocaine patch 5%) and Voltaren Gel (diclofenac sodium topical gel) are both topical medications used to relieve different types of pain. Lidoderm is used to relieve nerve pain after shingles (post-herpetic neuralgia).
Diclofenac (generic Voltaren) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug - also known as an NSAID - used to relieve the pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness caused by multiple forms of arthritis. It may also be used to treat mild-to-moderate pain and painful abdominal cramping during menstruation.
NSAIDs, including Voltaren Gel, can lead to high blood pressure or worsening of high blood pressure, which may add to the increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
Voltaren (diclofenac) helps to relieve pain and inflammation by blocking the effects of cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. This prevents prostaglandin synthesis (prostaglandins elevate body temperature and make nerve endings more sensitive to pain transmission).
Taking too much diclofenac sodium does not usually cause serious problems. The person may have some stomach pain and vomiting (possibly with blood). However, these symptoms will likely get better. In rare cases, a blood transfusion is needed.
This drug may rarely cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. Get medical help right away if you have any symptoms of liver damage, including: nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
Only 6% to 20% of the dose gets into the bloodstream, and there is definitely an effect locally.
For example, you should not use Voltaren: If you have any heart issues or are at risk for adverse events such as heart attack and stroke. If you have allergies to this drug or other pain or fever aids such as aspirin.
Voltaren is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that treats pain and inflammation.
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.
Voltaren Emulgel helps with the relief of localized traumatic inflammation and pain such as muscle pain. Sports injuries and strains due to overuse are the most common causes of muscle pain.