HWN Suggests

Voltaren Gel: Does It Work?

Voltaren is the most famous topical pain-killer, but it’s hardly the only one. Topical salicylates (cousins to aspirin) have been around for ages, and may even work better than Voltaren for some people and purposes. Other popular pain-relief ointments have never shown much potential, like the “spicy” ointments like tiger balm or Arnica creams (Traumeel, T-Relief)... The evidence shows that it “provides clinically meaningful analgesia,” and quite safely, a claim that has been repeatedly validated by extensive testing over many years now.

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Articles of Interest

A Review of Topical Diclofenac Use in Musculoskeletal Disease

For symptomatic osteoarthritis of the knees, there is evidence through several randomized studies that topical diclofenac is an efficacious treatment compared to placebo for a short duration with clinical efficacy appearing at within the first week and duration of effect up to 12 weeks. The clinical efficacy of topical diclofenac is likely secondary to local concentration when applied. Local cutaneous reactions are the most common adverse effects of topical diclofenac while the safety profile of systemic side effects is reduced compared to oral NSAIDs.

Benefits of Voltaren Gel and Dangerous Side Effects

Voltaren has not proven effective with other causes of long-term musculoskeletal pain, like rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or with acute injuries like sprains or strains.

Skin penetration and tissue permeation after topical administration of diclofenac

The available evidence suggests that after topical application, the drug can penetrate the skin and permeate to deeper tissues, with generally higher levels in muscle than in plasma compared with oral administration.

The Ultimate Guide to Voltaren Gel

Voltaren Gel is a widely used medication for treating pain and inflammation associated with various conditions such as arthritis, sprains, and strains. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about Voltaren Gel, from understanding its active ingredients to its benefits, usage instructions, and potential side effects

Voltaren vs Biofreeze vs Salonpas vs Blue-Emu

Biofreeze, Blue-Emu, Voltaren, and Salonpas can all be used to alleviate joint pain to some extent. The 2019 American College of Rheumatology Guidelines for management of Osteoarthritis strongly recommend use of topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for arthritic joint pain in the knee. Since Voltaren contains diclofenac sodium, a non-steroidal antiinflammatory drug, it can be effectively used as a first-line option to reduce pain from arthritic inflammation. However, since Voltaren is recommended for application only on hands, wrists, elbows, knees, ankles, and feet, an alternative option may be necessary when treating pain in other areas of the body.

Resources

Mayo Connect

I discussed the risks with both my primary doc & my pain management doc. I also did a lot of reading. Here is what I get from all of it - Yes, Voltaren is an NSAID, so it carries some of the same risks as if it was taken internally. However, used topically, a LOT LESS or the drug makes its way into the bloodstream and organs than when taken orally, thus it is considered safer. But, it should only be used according to directions for the number of times per day and the amount.

Voltaren

No matter the day, the hour, or what you’re doing, embrace the joy of movement with the help of specialized products from Voltaren: powerful gel for arthritis pain † or drug-free, dietary supplements for healthy joints.*

Voltarol

Even a little bit of pain can have a big impact on your life. That’s why Voltarol makes pain relief gels, heat patches and medicated plasters that you can rely on to help rediscover the joy of movement with less pain.