Voltaren (diclofenac) is a non steroidal anti inflammatory drug (NSAID). This medicine works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain inflammation. Voltaren is used to treat pain or inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis or ankylosing spondylitis. Voltaren may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
The health and medical information provided here is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for the expertise and judgment of your physician, or other health care professional. It should not be understood to indicate that the use of this medicine is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Always consult your health care professional before using this, or any other, drug.
Voltaren may cause life-threatening heart or circulation problems such as heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long term. Do not use Voltaren just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).
Get emergency medical help if you have chest pain, weakness, shortness of breath, slurred speech, or problems with vision or balance.
Voltaren may also cause serious effects on the stomach or intestines, including bleeding or perforation (forming of a hole). These conditions can be fatal and can occur without warning while you are taking Voltaren, especially in older adults.
Call your doctor at once if you have symptoms of stomach bleeding such as black, bloody, or tarry stools, or coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any cold, allergy, or other pain medicine. Medicines similar to diclofenac are contained in many combination medicines. Taking certain products together can cause you to get too much of this type of medication. Check the label to see if a medicine contains aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, or naproxen. Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase your risk of stomach bleeding.
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Voltaren: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using Voltaren and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:
chest pain, weakness, shortness of breath, slurred speech, problems with vision or balance;
black, bloody, or tarry stools;
coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;
swelling or rapid weight gain, urinating less than usual or not at all;
nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
bruising, severe tingling, numbness, pain, muscle weakness;
neck stiffness, chills, increased sensitivity to light, purple spots on the skin, and/or seizure (convulsions); or
severe skin reaction -- fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.
Less serious Voltaren side effects may include:
upset stomach, mild heartburn or stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation bloating, gas;
dizziness, headache, nervousness;
skin itching or rash;
blurred vision; or
ringing in your ears.
Take Voltaren exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
If you switch brands of diclofenac, your dose needs may change. Follow your doctor`s instructions about how much medicine to take.
Do not crush, chew, or break a Voltaren extended-release tablet. Swallow it whole. Breaking the pill may cause too much of the drug to be released at one time.
Do not crush, chew, or break a Voltaren enteric-coated tablet. Swallow the tablet whole. The enteric-coated tablet has a special coating to protect your stomach. Breaking the pill could damage this coating.
If you use Voltaren long-term, your liver function will need to be checked with frequent blood tests. Visit your doctor regularly.
Store Voltaren at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
