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Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel - 30g

Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel - 30g

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  • ✔️ Targets joint pain directly at the source with diclofenac sodium 2.32%
  • ✔️ Provides up to 12 hours of continuous anti-inflammatory relief
  • ✔️ Applied topically — lower systemic side effect risk than oral NSAIDs
  • ✔️ Suitable for osteoarthritis, sprains, and soft tissue injuries
  • ✔️ Twice-daily application fits easily into daily routines

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Is Diclofenac Gel for Joint Pain Right for You?

 

Joint pain can make even the simplest daily tasks feel like a challenge. Whether it's a stiff knee in the morning or an aching wrist after a long day, finding targeted relief matters. Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel 30g is a clinically established topical treatment containing diclofenac sodium 2.32%, applied directly to the skin over the affected joint. It's available over the counter, without a prescription, and is one of the most widely recognised topical pain relief options in the UK. You can browse our full range of pain relief products if you'd like to compare your options before deciding.

Diclofenac belongs to a class of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). When applied topically, it works locally — meaning it targets the area where you need it most, rather than affecting your whole body the way an oral tablet would. That's a meaningful distinction for many people, particularly those who prefer to avoid systemic medication.

 

How Does Voltarol 12 Hour Gel Work at the Site of Pain?

 

The active ingredient, diclofenac sodium 2.32%, penetrates the skin and reaches the underlying tissue, where it inhibits the enzyme cyclo-oxygenase (COX). This enzyme is responsible for producing prostaglandins — the chemical messengers that trigger pain and inflammation. By reducing prostaglandin synthesis locally, the gel helps to ease both pain and swelling without the need for oral medication.

  • Diclofenac sodium penetrates the skin barrier to reach inflamed tissue
  • Inhibits COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes locally
  • Reduces prostaglandin production at the site of pain
  • Provides relief lasting up to 12 hours per application

 

Who Is Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel Suitable For?

 

This gel is intended for adults and adolescents aged 14 years and over. It's particularly suited to people experiencing localised joint or muscle pain, including pain associated with osteoarthritis of superficial joints such as the knee or finger joints. It's also used for soft tissue injuries like sprains and strains.

  • Adults and adolescents aged 14 and over
  • People with localised joint pain, including osteoarthritis of the knee or hands
  • Those with soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains, or bruising
  • Individuals who prefer topical treatment over oral NSAIDs

It is not suitable for use during the third trimester of pregnancy, in children under 14, or in people with a known hypersensitivity to diclofenac or other NSAIDs. Always read the label carefully before use.

 

How Does Voltarol 12 Hour Gel Compare to Other Topical Pain Relief Options?

 

Feature Voltarol 12 Hour Gel (Diclofenac 2.32%) Ibuprofen Gel (e.g. 5%)
Active ingredient Diclofenac sodium 2.32% Ibuprofen 5%
Application frequency Twice daily (every 12 hours) Up to 3–4 times daily
Duration of action Up to 12 hours 4–6 hours
Suitable age 14 years and over Varies by product (typically 14+)

 

How Should You Store Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel?

 

Store the gel below 25°C, away from direct heat and sunlight. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use, and always store it out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use the gel after the expiry date printed on the tube or carton. If you're looking for other topical treatments, our creams and ointments collection includes a range of options for skin and musculoskeletal conditions.

As a diclofenac gel for joint pain, Voltarol 12 Hour Gel should be used exactly as directed. Do not apply it to broken, infected, or inflamed skin, and avoid contact with eyes, mouth, or mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel 30g specifications
Treatment category Musculoskeletal pain relief
Mechanism of action COX enzyme inhibition; reduces prostaglandin synthesis locally
Effective for Joint pain, osteoarthritis (superficial joints), soft tissue injuries
Suitable for Adults and adolescents aged 14 years and over
Active ingredient Diclofenac sodium 2.32%
Pack size 30g
UK classification P (Pharmacy medicine)
Drug class Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) — topical
Preparation Gel
Route of administration Topical (cutaneous)

Specifications of Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel 30g

 

What Is Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel and What Is It Used For?

 

Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel is a topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) containing diclofenac sodium 2.32% as its active ingredient. It is used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in localised areas of the body, particularly joints and soft tissues. Conditions it is commonly used for include osteoarthritis of superficial joints (such as the knee, ankle, or finger joints), as well as sprains, strains, and bruising resulting from minor injuries.

It is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning it can be purchased without a prescription but should be obtained from a registered pharmacy. It is not a substitute for medical assessment if your pain is severe, persistent, or unexplained.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Voltarol 12 Hour Gel?

 

Before applying this gel, it's important to check whether it is appropriate for you. There are certain situations where it should not be used, and others where caution is needed.

Do not use this gel if you:

  • Are allergic to diclofenac sodium or any other NSAID (including aspirin or ibuprofen)
  • Have ever experienced asthma, urticaria, or allergic reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs
  • Are in the third trimester of pregnancy (weeks 28 onwards)
  • Are under 14 years of age
  • Have broken, damaged, infected, or eczematous skin at the application site

Use with caution and speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you:

  • Are in the first or second trimester of pregnancy or are breastfeeding
  • Have a history of gastrointestinal problems (though topical absorption is lower than oral NSAIDs)
  • Are already taking oral NSAIDs or anticoagulants such as warfarin
  • Have impaired kidney or liver function

Known drug interactions:

  • Systemic NSAIDs — concurrent use may increase the risk of side effects
  • Anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin) — topical diclofenac may have a small additive effect; monitor if using both
  • Ciclosporin or methotrexate — caution advised due to potential nephrotoxic effects if significant systemic absorption occurs

 

How Should You Apply Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel Correctly?

 

Always use this gel exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. Do not apply more than the recommended amount, and do not use it more frequently than advised.

  1. Wash and dry your hands before use (unless treating the hands themselves)
  2. Squeeze approximately 2–4g of gel onto your fingertip (roughly the size of a 50p coin)
  3. Gently rub the gel into the skin over the painful joint or area
  4. Allow the gel to dry before covering with clothing
  5. Wash your hands thoroughly after application (unless hands are the treated area)
  6. Do not apply under occlusive (airtight) dressings or bandages
  7. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, nose, or any mucous membrane
Age Group Dose Frequency Maximum duration
Adults and adolescents (14+) 2–4g per application Twice daily (every 12 hours) 14 days (without medical review)
Children under 14 Not recommended

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Voltarol 12 Hour Gel?

 

Like all medicines, Voltarol 12 Hour Gel can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Because it is applied to the skin rather than taken orally, the risk of systemic side effects is considerably lower than with oral NSAIDs. If you're managing multiple health concerns alongside joint pain, it's worth exploring our vitamins and supplements range for supportive options.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Skin reactions at the application site — redness, itching, or a burning sensation
  • Dry or flaking skin at the treated area
  • Mild rash

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Contact dermatitis (an allergic skin reaction)
  • Eczema-like skin changes
  • Photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight at the application site)
  • Blistering or pustules at the site of application

Serious allergic reactions (such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or severe skin reactions) are rare but require immediate medical attention. Stop using the gel and call 999 or go to A&E if you experience these symptoms.

 

How Should You Store Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the gel's effectiveness and safety throughout its shelf life. If you're also managing other health conditions, our first aid collection has a range of products to keep your medicine cabinet well stocked.

  • Store below 25°C — do not refrigerate or freeze
  • Keep away from direct heat and sunlight
  • Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use
  • Store out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube or carton
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicine to your pharmacy

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel online in the UK?

You can buy Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel 30g directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy, for £7.20. It is available without a prescription as an over-the-counter Pharmacy (P) medicine. Browse our full pain relief range for additional options to suit your needs.

How does Voltarol 12 Hour Gel work in the body?

Voltarol 12 Hour Gel contains diclofenac sodium 2.32%, which penetrates the skin and inhibits cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes locally in the underlying tissue. This reduces the production of prostaglandins — the chemicals responsible for triggering pain and inflammation. Because it works locally rather than systemically, it carries a lower risk of whole-body side effects compared to oral NSAIDs.

How do I apply Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel step by step?

Squeeze approximately 2–4g of gel (roughly the size of a 50p coin) onto your fingertip and gently rub it into the skin over the affected joint. Allow it to dry before covering with clothing, and wash your hands thoroughly after application unless your hands are the area being treated. Do not apply under occlusive dressings or near the eyes, mouth, or mucous membranes.

How often should I apply Voltarol 12 Hour Gel each day?

Apply Voltarol 12 Hour Gel twice daily, spacing applications approximately 12 hours apart. Do not apply more than twice in any 24-hour period. Sticking to the recommended frequency helps minimise the risk of skin irritation at the application site.

What are the side effects of Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel?

The most common side effects are localised skin reactions at the application site, including redness, itching, a mild burning sensation, or dry skin. Less commonly, some people experience contact dermatitis or photosensitivity at the treated area. Serious allergic reactions are rare — stop using the gel and seek immediate medical attention if you develop swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin reaction.

Who should not use Voltarol 12 Hour Gel?

This gel is not suitable for children under 14 years of age, people in the third trimester of pregnancy, or anyone with a known allergy to diclofenac or other NSAIDs such as aspirin or ibuprofen. It should also not be applied to broken, infected, or eczematous skin. If you are unsure whether this product is right for you, speak to your pharmacist before use.

Can I use Voltarol 12 Hour Gel during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Voltarol 12 Hour Gel must not be used during the third trimester of pregnancy (from week 28 onwards) due to the risk of harm to the unborn baby. Use during the first and second trimesters should only be considered on medical advice. If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this gel, as small amounts of diclofenac may pass into breast milk.

How long can I use Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel for?

For most conditions, Voltarol 12 Hour Gel should not be used for more than 14 days without seeking medical advice. If your symptoms have not improved after two weeks, or if they worsen at any point, stop using the gel and consult your GP or pharmacist. Prolonged use without review is not recommended.

What happens if I accidentally apply too much Voltarol 12 Hour Gel?

If you apply more gel than recommended, wipe off any excess with a clean tissue and wash the area with soap and water. Systemic toxicity from topical diclofenac is unlikely with a single excess application, but if you experience unusual symptoms or are concerned, contact NHS 111 or your pharmacist for guidance. Do not apply an extra dose to compensate for a missed one.

Can I use Voltarol 12 Hour Gel alongside oral pain relief medicines?

Using Voltarol 12 Hour Gel at the same time as oral NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen) is generally not recommended, as it may increase the risk of NSAID-related side effects. Paracetamol is generally considered safe to use alongside topical diclofenac, but always check with your pharmacist first. If you are taking anticoagulants such as warfarin, seek advice before using this gel.

Is Voltarol 12 Hour Gel suitable for knee pain caused by osteoarthritis?

Yes — Voltarol 12 Hour Gel is specifically indicated for the relief of pain associated with osteoarthritis of superficial joints, including the knee, ankle, and finger joints. The NHS recommends topical NSAIDs as a first-line treatment option for osteoarthritis pain in peripheral joints. It is suitable for adults and adolescents aged 14 and over.

What are the alternatives to Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel?

Alternatives include other topical NSAIDs such as ibuprofen gel (applied up to 3–4 times daily), or oral pain relief medicines such as paracetamol or ibuprofen tablets. For those who prefer non-medicated options, heat patches or cold compresses may also provide some relief. You can explore our creams and ointments collection for a broader selection of topical treatments.

Can I cover the area with a bandage after applying Voltarol 12 Hour Gel?

You should not apply Voltarol 12 Hour Gel under occlusive (airtight) dressings or bandages, as this can increase absorption through the skin and raise the risk of side effects. Loose, breathable clothing over the treated area is fine once the gel has dried. If you need to bandage the area for support, apply the gel first, allow it to dry fully, and use a non-occlusive bandage.

How should I store Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel?

Store the gel below 25°C, away from direct heat and sunlight, with the cap tightly closed. Keep it out of the reach and sight of children at all times. Do not use the gel after the expiry date printed on the tube or carton, and return any unused medicine to your pharmacy for safe disposal.

What does the latest research say about topical diclofenac for joint pain?

Clinical evidence supports the use of topical diclofenac as an effective treatment for localised joint pain, particularly in osteoarthritis of peripheral joints. The NHS and NICE both recognise topical NSAIDs as a recommended first-line option for osteoarthritis pain management, noting that they carry a lower risk of systemic side effects compared to oral NSAIDs. Research continues to support their use as a targeted, well-tolerated approach to managing joint pain in appropriate patients.

How Should You Use Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel?

Using Voltarol 12 Hour Gel correctly makes a real difference to how well it works. Always apply it to clean, dry, intact skin — never to broken, infected, or eczematous areas. Wash your hands before and after application unless your hands are the area being treated.

What Is the Correct Dose of Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel?

The correct dose depends on the size of the area being treated and the age of the person using it. Always use the smallest amount that provides effective relief, and never exceed the recommended daily dose. Using more gel than advised does not improve results and increases the risk of skin irritation.

When Is the Best Time to Use Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel?

Because each application lasts up to 12 hours, many people find it most helpful to apply the gel in the morning and again in the evening — for example, after waking and before bed. This spacing helps maintain consistent relief throughout the day and overnight. Try to apply at roughly the same times each day to keep the routine manageable.

If you miss an application, apply it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed application and continue as normal. Never apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How Long Can You Use Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel For?

Voltarol 12 Hour Gel is intended for short-term use. For most people, it should not be used for longer than 14 days without seeking advice from a doctor or pharmacist. If your pain has not improved within two weeks, or if it worsens at any point during treatment, stop using the gel and consult a healthcare professional.

Long-term use without medical supervision is not recommended. If you find you need pain relief regularly over an extended period, speak to your GP about the underlying cause and the most appropriate ongoing management plan for your condition.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel?

Because Voltarol 12 Hour Gel is applied directly to the skin rather than taken by mouth, most side effects are localised to the area of application. The majority of people who use it do not experience significant problems, but it's worth knowing what to look out for.

  • Redness or flushing of the skin at the application site
  • Itching or a mild burning sensation
  • Dry or flaking skin over the treated area
  • Mild rash

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Voltarol 12 Hour Gel?

Less commonly, some people experience more noticeable skin reactions. These affect fewer than 1 in 100 users but are worth being aware of, particularly if you have sensitive skin or a history of skin conditions.

  • Contact dermatitis — an allergic skin reaction causing redness, swelling, and blistering
  • Eczema-like changes at the application site
  • Photosensitivity — increased sensitivity to sunlight on the treated skin
  • Pustules or blistering at the site of application
  • Skin discolouration

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel?

Serious side effects from topical diclofenac are rare, but they can occur. Systemic absorption is much lower than with oral NSAIDs, but it is not zero — particularly if the gel is applied to large areas of skin, used under occlusive dressings, or used for prolonged periods. Stop using the gel immediately and seek urgent medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (signs of a serious allergic reaction)
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Severe skin reactions such as widespread blistering or peeling
  • Signs of kidney problems — such as changes in how much urine you pass

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Voltarol 12 Hour Gel?

If you notice a mild skin reaction such as redness or itching, try reducing the amount of gel you apply and ensure you are not using it more frequently than twice daily. If the reaction persists or worsens, stop using the gel and speak to your pharmacist. For any serious reaction — particularly breathing difficulties or widespread skin changes — call 999 or go to your nearest A&E immediately. You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel Interact With Other Medicines?

Although topical diclofenac has lower systemic absorption than oral NSAIDs, interactions are still possible, particularly with certain medicines. Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines you are currently taking before using this gel. Known interactions include:

  • Oral NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen, naproxen) — concurrent use may increase the risk of NSAID-related side effects
  • Anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin) — a small additive effect on bleeding risk is possible; monitoring may be required
  • Ciclosporin or methotrexate — caution is advised due to potential effects on kidney function if significant systemic absorption occurs
  • Lithium — topical NSAIDs may theoretically affect lithium levels, though the risk is lower than with oral NSAIDs

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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