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Diclofenac

Brand names: Voltaren, Cataflam, Zipsor, Voltaren Arthritis Pain (gel)

Diclofenac is an NSAID that eases pain and swelling. The gel is rubbed on painful joints; pills treat arthritis and other pain.

Brand namesVoltaren, Cataflam, Zipsor, Voltaren Arthritis Pain (gel)
Type of medicineNSAID (pain reliever)
Prescription?Pills by prescription; gel over the counter
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

The gel puts less medicine into the bloodstream than pills, so it has fewer body-wide side effects.

What it's used for

  • Osteoarthritis (gel and pills)
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Menstrual cramps
  • Short-term pain
  • Migraine (powder)

How to take it

  • Pills: take with food or milk.
  • Gel: measure with the dosing card, rub into the joint, and don't cover with a tight bandage or apply heat. Wash hands after unless treating hands.
  • Use the lowest dose for the shortest time.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Upset stomach or heartburn
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Skin irritation where gel is applied
Call 911Chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness on one side, or slurred speech
Call 911Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
Call 911A blistering, peeling, or widespread red rash, especially with fever
Call your provider todayBlack or bloody stools
Call your provider todayPeeing much less, or swelling in the legs
Call your provider todayYellow skin or eyes or dark urine (liver)

Warnings

  • NSAIDs raise the risk of heart attack, stroke, and stomach bleeding. Ask a provider first if you have heart disease, kidney disease, stomach ulcers, or are over 60.
  • Don't use right before or after heart bypass surgery.
  • Diclofenac can affect the liver; your provider may check liver tests.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Don't combine with other NSAIDs like ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin for pain.
  • Blood thinners, steroids, and SSRIs raise bleeding risk.
  • It can weaken blood pressure medicines and raise lithium and methotrexate levels.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Avoid at 20 weeks of pregnancy or later unless your provider says to. Ask before using it at any point in pregnancy.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

This medicine is often taken only when needed. If you take it on a schedule, take a missed dose when you remember, unless it's almost time for the next one. Don't double up.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.