What happens if you use too much Voltaren gel?

Asked by: Prof. Roberta Hoppe V  |  Last update: November 24, 2023
Score: 5/5 (6 votes)

Symptoms of overdose/swallowing may include: severe stomach pain, change in the amount of urine, slow/shallow breathing.

Can you take too much Voltaren gel?

Voltaren Arthritis Pain gel can increase your risk of fatal heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long term or take high doses, or if you have heart disease.

What happens if you use too much diclofenac gel?

Taking too much diclofenac sodium does not usually cause serious problems. The person may have some stomach pain and vomiting (possibly with blood). However, these symptoms will likely get better. In rare cases, a blood transfusion is needed.

How long does Voltaren gel stay in your system?

How long does Voltaren gel stay in your system? It may take up to 7 days to feel the full effects of Voltaren gel. The medication typically reaches its highest level in the body roughly 10 to 14 hours after applying it. Diclofenac sodium (the medication in Voltaren gel) can stay in the body for nearly 3 weeks.

Does Voltaren Gel enter the bloodstream?

Here is what I get from all of it – Yes, Voltaren is an NSAID, so it carries some of the same risks as if it was taken internally. However, used topically, a LOT LESS or the drug makes its way into the bloodstream and organs than when taken orally, thus it is considered safer.

New OTC Voltaren Gel Pain Reliever VS Advil/Motrin, Aleve Or Tylenol. Facts For Best Choice

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Why can't you use Voltaren gel on your shoulder?

Why can't I use Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel for shoulders, hips, etc.? Voltaren has not been studied for the relief of arthritis pain in the shoulders, hips, and back.

Why was Voltaren taken off the market?

"This is a drug that has about the same risk of causing heart attacks as a drug called Vioxx, which was withdrawn from the market eight years ago because of this adverse effect," Henry, who is also a clinical pharmacologist, said in an interview with CBC News.

Where should you not use Voltaren gel?

Apply the medicine very carefully to clean, dry skin, and avoid getting any in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not apply this medicine to areas with broken skin or open wounds, infection, or severely peeling skin. Apply enough medicine each time to cover the entire affected area.

What are the most common side effects of diclofenac gel?

Topical diclofenac may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
  • dryness, redness, itching, swelling, pain, hardness, irritation, swelling, scaling, or numbness at application site.
  • acne.
  • stomach pain.
  • constipation.
  • gas.
  • dizziness.

What is the maximum Voltaren gel per day?

For osteoarthritis of the knees, ankles, or feet using Voltaren® 1% gel: Adults—Apply 4 grams (g) to the affected skin areas four times a day (a total of 16 g each day). However, the total dose should not exceed 32 g per day over all affected joints.

Why are you not supposed to use Voltaren on your back?

We believe in the free flow of information

Backing up a 2015 study showing paracetamol is ineffective for back pain, our latest research shows non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Nurofen and Voltaren, provide minimal benefits and high risk of side effects.

How much Voltaren gel is absorbed systemically?

The amount of diclofenac sodium that is systemically absorbed from Voltaren® Gel is on average 6% of the systemic exposure from an oral form of diclofenac sodium.

Why can't I use Voltaren on my hip?

According to the National Library of Medicine, Voltaren gel hasn't been studied for use on the hips, …" Not sure about this one but it does mention it…. "Don't use Voltaren gel on your back, hips, or shoulders. According to the National Library of Medicine, Voltaren gel hasn't been studied for use on the hips, …"

Can Voltaren Gel raise blood pressure?

Side Effects of Voltaren Gel

NSAIDs like Voltaren can also: Raise your blood pressure.

Is Voltaren gel bad for kidneys?

There are also topical products for arthritis that affects only one or two joints. A gel form of the prescription NSAID diclofenac (Voltaren Gel) is one option. Only a very small amount of the drug gets into the bloodstream, so it may be safe for your kidneys.

Why can't you use Voltaren gel on your neck?

However, the joints of the cervical spine in the neck, and most of the shoulder joint, are deeper than the Voltaren can penetrate.

Is Voltaren gel absorbed through the skin?

Pharmacokinetic Properties Absorption When Voltaren Emulgel is applied locally, the active substance is absorbed through the skin.

What to avoid when using Voltaren?

Some products that may interact with this drug are: aliskiren, ACE inhibitors (such as benazepril, lisinopril), angiotensin II receptor blockers (such as losartan, valsartan), cidofovir, corticosteroids (such as dexamethasone, prednisone), lithium, methotrexate, "water pills" (diuretics such as furosemide).

Why can't people over 65 use Voltaren?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including diclofenac) may rarely increase the risk for a heart attack or stroke. This effect can happen at any time while using this drug but is more likely if you use it for a long time. The risk may be greater in older adults or if you have.

Why can't I use Voltaren for more than 21 days?

Consumers should stop use and seek medical attention if their arthritis pain is not improved in 7 days or they need to use the product for more than 21 days. The active ingredient in Voltaren Arthritis Pain, diclofenac, may cause a severe allergic reaction, especially in people allergic to aspirin.

Is there an alternative to Voltaren gel?

Both Aspercreme and Voltaren gel can be effective choices to relieve arthritis pain in adults. These OTC topical medications may be a better alternative if you can't take oral pain relievers, like ibuprofen or naproxen. These medications are considered safe for most people when used as instructed.

Can I take ibuprofen with Voltaren gel?

If you are currently taking diclofenac, you should not use ibuprofen alongside it or soon afterward. Using NSAIDs concurrently or one after another can worsen their performance and potentially cause harmful side effects. It's important to always follow a healthcare provider's instructions when using a drug.

Can I use Voltaren gel for muscle pain?

Voltaren Emulgel helps with the relief of localized traumatic inflammation and pain such as muscle pain. Sports injuries and strains due to overuse are the most common causes of muscle pain. Here we look at how to identify and treat muscle pain.

Does Voltaren work immediately?

Voltaren gel is usually applied four times a day. You might get some relief quickly (within half an hour), but if often takes a few days of use for the full benefits to kick in. Make sure you wash your hands before and after using the product, says Dr. Frank.