Voltaren Gel (Diclofenac Diethylamine)

Do's

• Before using Voltaren Gel, read the Medication Guide and Patient Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, consult your healthcare provider.
• Voltaren Gel is for use on the skin only. To measure the right dose, use the dosing card(s) provided with the medication. Place a dosing card on a flat surface and squeeze an even line of the medication from the tube onto the dosing card, using the marks on the card to measure the prescribed dose.
• Gently rub the medication into the entire affected joint as directed by your healthcare provider, usually 4 times daily. Do not exceed the recommended frequency.
• Do not apply the medication on skin that has cuts, infections, or rashes. If the package instructions direct you to reuse the dosing card, it should be rinsed and dried after each use. When discarding the dosing card, it should be folded in half with the medication side inside and thrown away out of the reach of children and pets.
• The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not apply more than the specified amount of Voltaren Gel per day to any single joint of the lower or upper body. The total daily limit of Voltaren Gel should also be adhered to, regardless of the number of joints being treated.
• Discuss the risks and benefits of using Voltaren Gel with your doctor or pharmacist. To reduce the risk of side effects, use the medication at the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. 
• Voltaren Gel should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat. It should not be frozen.
• The use of Voltaren Gel should be in accordance with the prescribed duration unless otherwise instructed by your healthcare provider.
• Do not get the medication in the eyes, nose, or mouth. If contact occurs, it should be flushed with plenty of water. 
• Monitor the response to the medication and report any worsening of pain or adverse effects to your healthcare provider.

• Skin reactions at the application site
• Potential systemic effects such as raised blood pressure, fluid retention, and swelling in the tissues from fluid build-up (edema).
• Increased levels of a type of white blood cell called eosinophils, which may manifest as symptoms like rash, diarrhea, stomach pain, and dark urine.
• Gastrointestinal side effects including stomach pain, upset stomach, diarrhea, bloating, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, and abdominal pain.
• Central nervous system effects such as headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and abnormal lab tests.
• Itching, increased sweat, stuffy nose, and increased blood pressure.

Serious side effects:

• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Heartburn
• Painful swallowing
• Potential onset of new hypertension or worsening of preexisting hypertension

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and individuals may experience other side effects not listed here. If you experience any of these side effects or other concerning symptoms, stop using Voltaren Gel and seek medical advice from a healthcare provider.

Voltaren Gel is contraindicated in individuals with a history of allergic reactions to aspirin or NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

Serious skin reactions, including Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), may occur. Patients should stop using Voltaren immediately if they develop any type of rash or fever and contact their healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Avoid the use of NSAIDs, including Voltaren, in pregnant women at about 30 weeks gestation and later. NSAIDs, including Voltaren, increase the risk of premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus at approximately this gestational age. Use of NSAIDs, including Voltaren, at about 20 weeks gestation or later in pregnancy may cause fetal renal dysfunction leading to oligohydramnios and, in some cases, neonatal renal impairment.

Inform patients of the signs of an anaphylactic reaction (e.g., difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat) and instruct them to seek immediate emergency help if these occur.

Your healthcare provider should check your or your child's progress at regular visits to ensure that the medicine is working properly and to decide if you should continue to use it.

These warnings and precautions are crucial to consider when using Voltaren Gel. Consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of this medication.