Voltarol 1.16% Emulgel

Voltarol Emulgel 1.16% is a topical anti-inflammatory gel applied directly to the skin to relieve pain and reduce inflammation at the source. It contains diclofenac diethylammonium 1.16% as its active ingredient, equivalent to 1g of diclofenac sodium per 100g of gel.

Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to treat pain and inflammation affecting the joints, tendons, and muscles. When applied topically, it is absorbed through the skin into the underlying tissues where it acts directly on the source of pain, without the need for an oral tablet.

Voltarol Emulgel is used for the short-term relief of pain and inflammation associated with:

Joint pain and rheumatic conditions - including osteoarthritis affecting the knees, hands, and other joints

Muscle pain - including aches and stiffness from overuse or tension

Tendon pain - including conditions such as tendinitis

Sprains and strains - acute soft tissue injuries from sport or physical activity

Bruising - reduction of pain and swelling following minor soft tissue injury

It is intended for short-term use of up to 14 days. If pain and inflammation persist beyond this period, speak to a doctor before continuing use.

When Voltarol Emulgel is applied to the skin, the active ingredient diclofenac is absorbed through the skin and penetrates deep into the underlying tissues. Once there, it blocks the production of prostaglandins, chemicals produced by the body in response to tissue damage that are responsible for triggering pain and inflammation.

By reducing prostaglandin production at the site of pain, Voltarol Emulgel reduces both the sensation of pain and the associated swelling and stiffness, improving comfort and mobility in the affected area.

Because it is applied directly to the skin rather than taken orally, diclofenac in gel form reaches the affected tissue with lower systemic absorption than an oral tablet, which is beneficial for people who prefer to avoid oral NSAIDs or who experience gastrointestinal side effects from them.

Always use Voltarol Emulgel as directed by your prescriber or as described in the patient information leaflet enclosed with your medicine. For external use only.

1. Apply to clean, intact skin over or surrounding the painful or inflamed area.

2. Squeeze a small amount of gel from the tube and rub it gently into the skin until absorbed.

3. Apply 3 to 4 times daily, leaving at least 4 hours between each application. Do not apply more than 4 times in 24 hours.

4. Wash your hands after applying unless the hands are the area being treated.

5. Do not apply to broken, damaged, or infected skin.

6. Do not cover the treated area with an airtight dressing after applying.

7. Do not apply to more than two joints without speaking to your doctor first.

8. Do not use for more than 14 days unless specifically advised by your doctor.

Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.

For acute pain such as sprains, strains, and bruising, relief may be noticeable within the first few applications. For sustained pain relief, Voltarol Emulgel should be applied regularly every 4 hours, up to 4 times a day, to maintain a therapeutic level of diclofenac in the tissues.

If you are using Voltarol Emulgel to manage osteoarthritis, it may take up to 7 days of regular application before enough diclofenac accumulates in the joint tissue to adequately control pain.

For acute pain such as sprains, strains, and bruising, relief may be noticeable within the first few applications. For sustained pain relief, Voltarol Emulgel should be applied regularly every 4 hours, up to 4 times a day, to maintain a therapeutic level of diclofenac in the tissues.

If you are using Voltarol Emulgel to manage osteoarthritis, it may take up to 7 days of regular application before enough diclofenac accumulates in the joint tissue to adequately control pain.

For acute pain such as sprains, strains, and bruising, relief may be noticeable within the first few applications. For sustained pain relief, Voltarol Emulgel should be applied regularly every 4 hours, up to 4 times a day, to maintain a therapeutic level of diclofenac in the tissues.

If you are using Voltarol Emulgel to manage osteoarthritis, it may take up to 7 days of regular application before enough diclofenac accumulates in the joint tissue to adequately control pain.

For acute pain such as sprains, strains, and bruising, relief may be noticeable within the first few applications. For sustained pain relief, Voltarol Emulgel should be applied regularly every 4 hours, up to 4 times a day, to maintain a therapeutic level of diclofenac in the tissues.

If you are using Voltarol Emulgel to manage osteoarthritis, it may take up to 7 days of regular application before enough diclofenac accumulates in the joint tissue to adequately control pain.

Voltarol Emulgel delivers diclofenac directly to the affected tissue through the skin, targeting pain and inflammation at the source. Because it is applied topically rather than swallowed, systemic absorption is significantly lower than with an oral NSAID tablet, which reduces the risk of gastrointestinal side effects that can occur with oral anti-inflammatory medicines.

Clinical studies have shown that topical diclofenac gel can be as effective as oral NSAIDs such as ibuprofen for managing localised joint and muscle pain, while being better tolerated by many people.

However, topical treatment is most effective for localised pain in accessible areas. For widespread pain, or conditions affecting areas that are difficult to treat topically, oral treatment may be more appropriate. Your prescriber will advise on the most suitable option for your specific situation.

Important fire safety warning: Do not smoke or go near naked flames while using Voltarol Emulgel or while wearing clothing or using bedding that may have come into contact with the gel. Fabric that has been in contact with this product burns more easily and represents a serious fire hazard. Washing clothing and bedding may reduce product build-up but will not fully remove it.

Q: What is Voltarol Emulgel used for?

Voltarol Emulgel 1.16% is a topical anti-inflammatory gel used to relieve pain and inflammation affecting the joints, muscles, and tendons. It is suitable for conditions including osteoarthritis, rheumatic pain, sprains, strains, and bruising. It contains diclofenac, an NSAID that is applied directly to the skin.

Q: How is Voltarol Emulgel different from ibuprofen gel?

Both Voltarol Emulgel and ibuprofen gel are topical NSAIDs, but they contain different active ingredients. Voltarol Emulgel contains diclofenac, while ibuprofen gel contains ibuprofen. Both work in a similar way by reducing prostaglandin production at the site of pain. The choice between them depends on individual response and any relevant medical history, which your prescriber will consider as part of your consultation.

Q: How often should I apply Voltarol Emulgel?

Apply 3 to 4 times daily, leaving at least 4 hours between each application. Do not apply more than 4 times in 24 hours.

Q: How long can I use Voltarol Emulgel?

Voltarol Emulgel is intended for short-term use of up to 14 days. If your pain and inflammation persist beyond this period, speak to your doctor before continuing use.

Q: Can I use Voltarol Emulgel at the same time as ibuprofen tablets or naproxen?

You should take care when combining Voltarol Emulgel with oral NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen, as this increases the risk of side effects. Disclose all medicines you are taking during your consultation so your prescriber can advise accordingly.

Q: Is Voltarol Emulgel safe to use on the face?

Voltarol Emulgel is for external use on intact skin only. Avoid the face, particularly the eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.

Q: Can I use Voltarol Emulgel if I have asthma?

Some people with asthma are sensitive to NSAIDs. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using Voltarol Emulgel if you have asthma. Disclose this during your consultation and our prescribers will assess suitability.

Q: Why does Voltarol Emulgel carry a fire safety warning?

Voltarol Emulgel contains ingredients that are flammable. Fabric that has come into contact with the gel can catch fire more easily than usual, even after washing. Do not smoke or go near naked flames while wearing clothing or using bedding that may have come into contact with the gel.

Q: What is the difference between Voltarol Emulgel and Voltarol tablets?

Voltarol Emulgel is applied to the skin and targets pain locally with lower systemic absorption. Voltarol tablets contain diclofenac sodium taken orally, which acts throughout the body and is more suitable for widespread pain or pain in areas difficult to treat topically. Your prescriber will advise which is most appropriate for your condition.