Voltarol Osteoarthritis 1.16% Gel – 50g
£8.19
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Voltarol Osteoarthritis 1.16% Gel is a topical anti-inflammatory gel used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in joints affected by osteoarthritis. It is applied directly to the skin over painful joints such as the knees or hands.
Description
Voltarol Osteoarthritis 1.16% Gel – 50g
Voltarol Osteoarthritis 1.16% Gel is a topical anti-inflammatory gel used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in joints affected by osteoarthritis. It is applied directly to the skin over painful joints such as the knees or hands.
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How It Works
The active ingredient, diclofenac, belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). When rubbed into the skin, it is absorbed into the tissue beneath and works by blocking the production of prostaglandins — chemicals in the body that cause pain and inflammation — helping to ease discomfort and swelling at the site of application.
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Directions for Use
Voltarol Osteoarthritis 1.16% Gel is for adults aged 18 years and over. Apply 2 g of gel (approximately a 5–6 cm strip) to the affected joint up to four times a day, gently rubbing it into the skin. Wash your hands after use and avoid applying to broken, damaged, or infected skin. Do not use for longer than 21 days without speaking to a doctor. Always read the patient information leaflet before use. If you are unsure about the correct dose, speak to your PillSorted pharmacist.
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Active Ingredients
• Diclofenac diethylammonium 1.16% w/w (equivalent to diclofenac sodium 1% w/w)
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Possible Side Effects
• Skin reactions at the application site such as redness, itching, or rash
• Dry or flaking skin at the site of application
• Burning or tingling sensation on the skin
• Skin dermatitis (inflammation of the skin)
• In rare cases, allergic reactions such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat
If you experience any serious side effects, stop taking this medicine and seek medical advice immediately.
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Who Should Not Take This Medicine
• People who are allergic to diclofenac, aspirin, ibuprofen, or any other NSAID
• People who have experienced asthma, hives, or allergic reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs
• Children and adolescents under 18 years of age
• People in the last three months (third trimester) of pregnancy
• People with broken, damaged, infected, or diseased skin at the application site
• People with known hypersensitivity to any of the excipients in the gel
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Interactions
Because Voltarol Osteoarthritis Gel is applied to the skin, the amount absorbed into the bloodstream is much lower than oral NSAIDs, so interactions are less likely. However, caution is advised if you are also using other topical or oral NSAIDs, anticoagulants (such as warfarin), or medicines that affect the kidneys. Tell your PillSorted pharmacist or doctor about all medicines you are currently taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.
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Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Voltarol Osteoarthritis Gel should not be used during the third trimester of pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby. Use during the first and second trimesters should be avoided unless advised by a doctor. It is not recommended during breastfeeding, as diclofenac may pass into breast milk in small amounts. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before use if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.
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Alcohol
There is no known interaction between alcohol and Voltarol Osteoarthritis Gel when used as directed topically. As only a small amount of diclofenac is absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin, alcohol is unlikely to cause any significant interaction. However, if you have any concerns, speak to your PillSorted pharmacist.
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Driving and Operating Machinery
Voltarol Osteoarthritis 1.16% Gel is applied to the skin and is not expected to affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. If you experience any unexpected side effects that affect your alertness or reactions, seek advice before driving.
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Storage
Store below 25°C. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use. Keep out of sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date shown on the packaging.
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Important Information
• This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or PillSorted pharmacist before taking this product if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking any other medication or complementary therapy.
• If symptoms worsen or persist, contact your doctor.
• If pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding, seek medical advice before use.
• If you suffer from allergies, confirm suitability with your PillSorted pharmacist before use.
• Store out of sight and reach of children.
• Read the enclosed patient information leaflet carefully before use.
• Contact your GP where appropriate.
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Patient Information Leaflet
For the full Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) for this medicine, visit the electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC). For further information about this medicine, visit NHS.uk.
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This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: February 2026.
| Weight | 0.07 kg |
|---|---|
| Brand | Voltarol |
| Class | Pharmacy Medicine |
