Voltaren

Generic name:diclofenac [ dye-KLOE-fen-ak ]
Drug class:Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Medically reviewed by Kaci Durbin, MD. Last updated on Dec 1, 2020.

What is Voltaren?

Voltaren is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Diclofenac works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation.

Voltaren oral tablets are used to treat mild to moderate pain, or signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Voltaren is also used to treat ankylosing spondylitis.

Voltaren ophthalmic eyedrops are used to treat pain, inflammation, and light sensitivity after eye surgery or for certain eye conditions.

Voltaren gel is used to treat osteoarthritis of the knees and hands.

Warnings

You should not use Voltaren if you have a history of allergic reaction to aspirin or NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

Voltaren can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke. Do not use diclofenac just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG). Diclofenac may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal.

Voltaren may also cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal. These conditions can occur without warning while you are using this medicine, especially in older adults.

Before taking this medicine

Voltaren can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke, even if you don't have any risk factors. Do not use this medicine just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

You should not use Voltaren if you are allergic to diclofenac, or if you have ever had an asthma attack ...