Also Known as Voltarol Emulgel, Voltarol max strength, voltaren
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A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Voltaren is an OTC non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication used for topical pain relief. It is commonly applied for arthritis pain relief but may also be used for joint inflammation caused by minor injury. The active ingredient in Voltaren Emulgel – Diclofenac – works by suppressing the production of prostaglandins, which are pain-signaling chemicals. Voltaren gel is formulated to penetrate deep into the skin and it often provides better pain relief from arthritis than oral NSAID medications like Ibuprofen, Naproxen, or oral Diclofenac.
Apply a moderate amount (roughly the diameter of a nickel) of Voltaren gel onto the skin at the site of pain and use 2 fingers to spread it out evenly directly over the area where pain is radiating. Increase the amount if pain is severe or pain relief is insufficient with a standard application.
You can apply Voltaren up to 4 times per day as needed.
Wash hands after applying Voltaren to your skin.
The active ingredient in Voltaren gel is Diclofenac.
For topical use on skin only, do not apply elsewhere on body and keep away from eyes, mouth, nose, and other orifices.
Use of Voltaren Emulgel may not be appropriate if you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, ulcers, liver or kidney disease, asthma, or if you are smoker. Speak with a doctor if you have any of these concerns.
Anyone under the age of 18 should get a doctor’s approval before using Voltaren gel.
Excessive use of Diclofenac can affect ovulation for women.
Voltaren Emulgel should be stored at 68-77°F (20-25°C) and kept out of reach of children.
Reading product label for additional safety information is recommended.
Voltaren side effects are uncommon, but some users may experience skin reddening, blisters, facial swelling, shock, rash, or worsened asthma. If side effects are seen you may want to discontinue use and speak to a medical health professional to discuss arthritis pain relief gel alternatives.