Voltarol Science - Diclofenac
Voltarol Gels contain diclofenac – a potent anti-inflammatory ingredient1
Diclofenac is the active ingredient in the medicinal range of topical Voltarol products that relieve pain by targeting inflammation.1,2
Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that targets key steps in inflammatory cascades.
Product Information can be found at the bottom of the page
Acts through cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibition, striking inflammation at its source Learn how diclofenac reduces inflammation by inhibiting prostaglandin biosynthesis through action on the COX enzymes with selectivity for COX-2, and inhibiting phospholipase A2 activity to reduce the production of inflammatory leukotrienes.1
Diclofenac is a potent anti-inflammatory agent1
Its effect on the COX-2 enzyme means that, unlike non-NSAID medications such as paracetamol, diclofenac not only provides pain relief but also reduces inflammation – a root cause of pain.
Diclofenac, an NSAID (and therefore in the same drug class as ketoprofen and ibuprofen), shows marked potency in its inhibition of the COX-2 enzyme.3
Diclofenac targets inflammation to strike pain at its source
Product Information: Please consult the Summary of Product Characteristics for full product information. Voltarol Emulgel 1% w/w Gel (diclofenac) and Voltarol Emulgel Extra Strength 2% w/w Gel (diclofenac). Indications: For the local symptomatic relief of pain and inflammation in trauma of tendons, ligaments, muscles and joints, localised forms of soft tissue rheumatism. Dosage: Adults and adolescents 14 years and over: Voltarol Emulgel 1% w/w Gel: 2-4g of gel, applied topically 3-4 times daily. Maximum treatment duration is 7 days. Voltarol Emulgel Extra Strength 2% w/w Gel: 2-4g of gel, applied topically 2 times daily – morning and evening. Maximum treatment duration is 14 days. All gels: Patients should consult their doctor if the condition does not improve within 7 days, or worsens. Contraindications: Patients with or without chronic asthma in whom asthma, angioedema, urticaria or acute rhinitis are precipitated by aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents. Hypersensitivity to diclofenac, acetylsalicylic acid, other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or any other ingredient in the gel. Use in third trimester of pregnancy. Use in children and adolescents aged less than 14 years. Warnings and precautions: Apply only to intact, non-diseased skin and not to skin wounds or open injuries. Do not smoke and avoid naked flames. It should not be used with occlusion, allowed to come into contact with the eyes or mucous membranes or ingested. Application over extensive areas for prolonged periods or application in excess of recommended dosage may give rise to systemic effects. Discontinue if rash develops. Use with caution in patients with a history of peptic ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, hepatic or renal insufficiency, or bleeding diathesis, or intestinal inflammation. Voltarol Emulgel 1% w/w Gel: Contains propylene glycol and benzyl benzoate, which may cause skin irritation. Voltarol Emulgel Extra Strength 2% w/w Gel: Contains propylene glycol and butylhydroxytoluene which may cause skin reactions or irritations, and fragrance limonene and linalool which may cause allergic reactions. Side effects: Very rare: rash pustular, hypersensitivity (including urticaria), angioedema, asthma, photosensitivity reaction. Rare: Dermatitis bullous. Common: Dermatitis (including contact dermatitis), rash, erythema, eczema, pruritus. MA Holder: Haleon Ireland Limited, 12 Riverwalk, Citywest Business Campus, Dublin 24, Ireland. MA Number: Voltarol 1% w/w Gel: PA 678/140/2. Voltarol 2% w/w Gel: PA 678/140/3. Legal Category: 1%: GSL, 2%: Pharmacy only. Text revised: July 2023. Further information available on request.
Contains diclofenac diethylammonium. Always read the label/leaflet.
Diclofenac-containing products
Voltarol Emulgel 1% w/w Gel (diclofenac diethylammonium)
Scientifically proven to help relieve muscle pain, reduce inflammation and restore movement.4-6
See the evidence for Voltarol Emulgel 1% w/w Gel. 100g pack available with no mess applicator.
Voltarol Emulgel Extra Strength 2% w/w Gel (diclofenac diethylammonium)
With a permeation enhancer to increase penetration of diclofenac,7 it provides up to 12 hours of relief from joint pain.4
See how Voltarol Emulgel Extra Strength 2% w/w Gel can help your patients, with just twice daily topical application
Diclofenac – a potent anti-inflammatory ingredient1
Conditions
Our overviews of common pain conditions explore the causes, signs, symptoms and impact of each condition, and summarise the latest evidence-based management recommendations.
