What is Voltarol Back and Muscle Pain Relief Gel?
Voltarol Back and Muscle Pain Relief Gel contains the active ingredient diclofenac diethylamine, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. This gel is specifically designed to target back and muscle pain, offering fast and effective relief directly at the source of pain.
How it works
Voltarol Gel works by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation. When applied to the skin, the gel is absorbed into the underlying tissues, reducing inflammation and providing relief from pain and stiffness in the muscles and joints.
Can I buy Voltarol Back and Muscle Pain Relief Gel over the counter?
Yes, Voltarol Back and Muscle Pain Relief Gel is available over the counter after a short consultation with a pharmacist for the treatment of back pain, muscle pain, and joint pain.
How to use Voltarol Back and Muscle Pain Relief Gel
For adults and adolescents aged 14 and over, rub a small amount into the painful area three or four times daily. A one-penny to two-pence-sized amount is usually enough, depending on the area. Leave at least four hours between applications and do not exceed four applications in 24 hours.
Wash your hands afterwards unless they are being treated. Do not use for more than 14 days without medical advice. Seek advice if not improving within seven days or if symptoms worsen; adolescents need advice if treatment is needed beyond seven days.
Who cannot use Voltarol Gel
Voltarol Gel is generally safe for most people, but it may not be suitable for everyone. Avoid using Voltarol Gel if you:
- Do not use if you are allergic to diclofenac, aspirin, ibuprofen, another NSAID or an ingredient.
- Do not apply to broken skin, eczema, a rash or wounds.
- Do not use during the last three months of pregnancy.
Ask a pharmacist first if you have asthma or a history of stomach ulcers, or take another NSAID, anticoagulant or antiplatelet medicine.
Please note: If you experience any unusual symptoms while using Voltarol Gel, such as a rash or irritation, stop using it and seek medical advice.
Do not use under an airtight dressing. Keep the gel away from eyes and mouth. Fabric carrying product residue can catch fire more easily: do not smoke or go near naked flames. Washing clothes and bedding may reduce residue without removing it completely.
How to order Voltarol Back and Muscle Pain Relief Gel online
You can order Voltarol Back and Muscle Pain Relief Gel 1.16% online through our regulated GPhC registered pharmacy in the UK. We offer free and next-day delivery options. A pharmacist will review your order to ensure Voltarol Gel is appropriate for you and your condition before purchase.
Voltarol Gel and pregnancy
Do not use during the last three months of pregnancy. During the first six months, use only on medical advice, at the lowest dose for the shortest time. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before use if pregnant or trying for a baby.
Voltarol Gel and breastfeeding
Use during breastfeeding only on medical advice. Do not apply to the breasts, a large skin area or for a prolonged period.
Help with muscle and joint pain
To help manage muscle and joint pain, you can:
- Rest the affected area and avoid activities that aggravate the pain.
- Apply ice packs to reduce inflammation and numb the pain.
- Gently stretch and exercise the area to improve flexibility and strength.
- Ask a pharmacist about additional pain relief. Do not add ibuprofen, aspirin or another NSAID to Voltarol without advice.
- Maintain good posture and ergonomics to prevent further strain.
Speak to a doctor if pain or swelling is not improving within seven days, gets worse, is severe or has no clear cause.
Voltarol Gel side effects
Voltarol Gel is generally well tolerated, but it can cause side effects in some people. Common side effects include:
- Skin irritation or redness at the application site.
- Itching or a rash.
- Dry or peeling skin.
If you experience severe side effects such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or severe skin reactions, stop using Voltarol Gel and seek medical advice immediately.
Voltarol Gel interactions
Only a small amount of diclofenac is absorbed from correctly used gel, so an oral-diclofenac interaction list should not be read as a list of absolute bans for the gel. Nevertheless, ask a pharmacist to check your medicines, especially:
- Other diclofenac products, aspirin or ibuprofen, because combining NSAIDs can increase adverse effects.
- Anticoagulants or antiplatelets, such as warfarin or clopidogrel.
- Other medicines that affect bleeding risk, including corticosteroids or an SSRI such as citalopram.
Please note: Please inform us of all medications and supplements you are taking before using Voltarol Gel. For a full list of interactions, see: Voltarol Gel interactions.
Voltarol Gel alternatives
If Voltarol Gel does not work for you, consider other options such as:
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Voltarol Gel while pregnant?
Do not use during the last three months of pregnancy. During the first six months, use only on medical advice, at the lowest dose for the shortest time. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before use if pregnant or trying for a baby.
Can you buy Voltarol Gel over the counter?
Yes, Voltarol Back and Muscle Pain Relief Gel is available over the counter after a short consultation with a pharmacist.
How quickly does Voltarol Gel work?
Voltarol Gel starts to provide relief within an hour of application, but it may take several days to feel the full effect.
What are the side effects of Voltarol Gel?
Common side effects include skin irritation, redness, and itching at the application site. Severe side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention.
