Voltaren is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used to relieve the inflammation, swelling, stiffness, and joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, abdominal cramps associated with menstruation and ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis and stiffness of the spine).

Voltaren works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body.

Voltaren contains the active ingredient diclofenac sodium, which is a type of medicine called a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). All the medicines in the NSAID group reduce inflammation caused by the body s own immune system and are effective painkillers.

Voltaren works by blocking the action of a substance in the body called cyclo-oxygenase. Cyclo-oxygenase is involved in the production of various chemicals in the body, some of which are known as prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are produced by the body in response to injury and certain

Take Voltaren with food, milk, or an antacid to minimise stomach upset and related side effects. However this may delay onset of relief.
Also do not lie down for about 20 minutes after taking Voltaren . This will help prevent irritation in your upper digestive tract.

ADULTS
Osteoarthritis
The usual dose of Voltaren is 100 to 150 milligrams a day, divided into smaller doses of 50 milligrams 2 or 3 times a day or 75 milligrams twice a day.

Rheumatoid Arthritis
The usual dose of Voltaren

Tell your doctor if you are taking any medicines, including those bought over-the-counter and herbal medicines, before you start treatment with Voltaren . Similarly, check with your doctor or pharmacist before you take any new medicines while you are taking Voltaren .

Voltaren may increase the blood levels of the following medicines:

• lithium
• digoxin
• methotrexate.

People taking Voltaren with any of the above should be closely monitored by their doctor.

Most Important Fact about Voltaren
You should have frequent checkups with your doctor if you take Voltaren regularly.
Ulcers or internal bleeding can occur without warning.

Voltaren precautions if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Voltaren is not recommended for use in pregnancy, particularly the third trimester, unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor. Voltaren passes into the breast milk, but at normal doses it is unlikely to harm the baby.

More common side effects of Voltaren may include:

• constipation or diarrhea
• dizziness
• gas or heartburn
• headache
• nausea,
• vomiting
• abdominal pain or cramps,
• indigestion

Rare side effects of Voltaren may include:

Signs of bleeding from the stomach –

• black tarry stools,
• blood in the urine,
• unusual tiredness or weakness,
• vomiting blood or vomit that looks like
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