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Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel

Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel

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What Is Voltarol Joint Pain Gel and How Does It Help?

 

Joint pain can stop you in your tracks — whether it's a niggling knee after a run or persistent stiffness in your hands first thing in the morning. Voltarol joint pain gel is a topical anti-inflammatory gel containing diclofenac diethylammonium 1.16% w/w, designed to deliver targeted relief directly to the source of pain. Unlike oral painkillers, it works at the site of discomfort rather than travelling through your whole system, which many people find more convenient and easier to tolerate. You can find it alongside other options in our pain relief collection.

Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel is an over-the-counter medicine, meaning you don't need a prescription to buy it. It's licensed in the UK for the relief of localised pain and inflammation in conditions such as osteoarthritis of the knee and small joints of the hand, as well as soft tissue injuries. Each application is formulated to last up to 12 hours, so twice-daily use is typically all that's needed.

 

How Does Voltarol 12 Hour Gel Work on Joints?

 

Diclofenac belongs to a class of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. When you apply the gel, the active ingredient penetrates the skin and accumulates in the underlying tissue — including synovial fluid, cartilage, and muscle — where it gets to work reducing inflammation. Here's how the mechanism unfolds:

  • Diclofenac inhibits the enzyme cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2), which is responsible for producing prostaglandins.
  • Prostaglandins are chemical messengers that sensitise nerve endings and promote swelling — reducing them lowers both pain and inflammation.
  • Because the gel is applied topically, systemic absorption is significantly lower than with oral diclofenac tablets, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
  • The gel's formulation supports skin penetration, allowing diclofenac to reach deeper tissues without the need for oral dosing.

This localised action is one of the key reasons topical NSAIDs are often recommended as a first-line option for knee osteoarthritis, particularly in older adults or those who cannot tolerate oral NSAIDs.

 

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

 

This gel is suitable for adults and adolescents aged 14 years and over. It's particularly useful if you're looking for targeted relief without the systemic effects of oral anti-inflammatory tablets. That said, it's not right for everyone — always read the label carefully.

  • Adults with osteoarthritis of the knee or small hand joints
  • People with soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains, or tendinitis
  • Those who prefer a topical treatment to avoid gastrointestinal side effects associated with oral NSAIDs
  • Individuals aged 14 and over who need short-term localised pain relief

It is not suitable for children under 14, people with known hypersensitivity to diclofenac or other NSAIDs (including aspirin), or those with active peptic ulcers. Pregnant women, particularly from 20 weeks gestation onwards, should avoid NSAIDs unless specifically advised by a doctor.

 

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

 

Feature Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel Ibuprofen Gel (e.g. Ibuleve)
Active ingredient Diclofenac diethylammonium 1.16% Ibuprofen 5% or 10%
Application frequency Twice daily (every 12 hours) Up to 3–4 times daily
Duration of action Up to 12 hours per application Typically 4–6 hours
Licensed for osteoarthritis Yes (knee and small hand joints) Varies by product

 

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 browsing other topical treatments, our creams and ointments collection includes a range of options for skin and musculoskeletal conditions.

Voltarol joint pain gel should not be frozen. Once opened, use within the period indicated on the packaging — typically 12 months. Dispose of any unused gel responsibly via your local pharmacy's medicine return scheme rather than putting it in household waste.

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 specifications
Treatment category Musculoskeletal pain relief / Anti-inflammatory
Active ingredient Diclofenac diethylammonium 1.16% w/w
Drug class Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Mechanism of action COX-1 and COX-2 inhibition; reduces prostaglandin synthesis locally
Route of administration Topical (cutaneous)
Preparation Gel
Strengths 1.16% w/w diclofenac diethylammonium
Pack sizes 50 g, 100 g
Suitable for Adults and adolescents aged 14 years and over
UK classification P (Pharmacy medicine)
Effective Localised joint and soft tissue pain and inflammation

Specifications of Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel

 

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

 

Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel contains diclofenac diethylammonium 1.16% w/w as its active ingredient. It belongs to the NSAID family and is used topically to relieve localised pain and inflammation. It is licensed for the symptomatic relief of pain associated with osteoarthritis of the knee and small joints of the hand, as well as for soft tissue injuries including sprains, strains, and bruising in adults and adolescents aged 14 and over.

The gel is applied directly to the skin over the affected area, allowing diclofenac to penetrate into the underlying tissue. This makes it a practical choice for people who want targeted relief without taking tablets. It is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning it is available without a prescription but should be purchased from a registered pharmacy.

 

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

 

Before using this gel, it's important to check whether it is appropriate for you. Do not use Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel if any of the following apply:

  • You are allergic to diclofenac, aspirin, ibuprofen, or any other NSAID
  • You have ever had asthma, urticaria, or allergic reactions triggered by NSAIDs
  • You are in the third trimester of pregnancy (28 weeks or more)
  • You are under 14 years of age
  • The skin at the application site is broken, damaged, infected, or affected by eczema or dermatitis
  • You have a known hypersensitivity to any of the excipients in the formulation

The following medicines may interact with diclofenac, even when used topically. The risk is lower than with oral NSAIDs, but caution is still advised:

  • Other NSAIDs (oral or topical) — increased risk of side effects
  • Anticoagulants such as warfarin — possible enhanced anticoagulant effect
  • Lithium — NSAIDs may increase plasma lithium levels
  • Methotrexate — NSAIDs may reduce renal clearance of methotrexate

Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are currently taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.

 

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

 

Using the gel correctly ensures you get the most benefit while minimising any risk of irritation. Follow these steps each time you apply it:

  1. Wash and dry your hands before use (unless your hands are the area being treated).
  2. Squeeze a small amount of gel — typically 2–4 g (roughly a cherry-sized amount) — onto your fingertip or directly onto the affected area.
  3. Gently massage the gel into the skin over the painful joint or muscle until fully absorbed.
  4. Wash your hands thoroughly after application unless treating the hands.
  5. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, nose, and mucous membranes. If accidental contact occurs, rinse with water immediately.
  6. Do not cover the treated area with an airtight or occlusive dressing.
  7. Allow the gel to dry before covering with clothing.
Indication Age Group Dose Frequency
Osteoarthritis (knee/hand) Adults & adolescents ≥14 years 2–4 g per application Twice daily (every 12 hours)
Soft tissue injury Adults & adolescents ≥14 years 2–4 g per application Twice daily (every 12 hours)
Children under 14 Not applicable Not recommended Not recommended

Do not apply to more than two body areas at the same time. If you are also using other pain relief products, speak to your pharmacist to ensure they are safe to use together.

 

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

 

Like all medicines, Voltarol gel can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Because it is applied topically, systemic side effects are much less common than with oral NSAIDs. Most reactions occur at the application site.

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

  • Skin redness (erythema) at the application site
  • Itching or a burning sensation on the skin
  • Dry or flaking skin where the gel has been applied
  • Mild rash at the application site

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

  • Contact dermatitis or eczema-like reaction
  • Skin blistering or peeling
  • Photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight at the treated area)
  • Rarely, systemic effects such as headache or gastrointestinal discomfort if significant absorption occurs

Stop using the gel and seek medical advice if you develop signs of a serious allergic reaction, including facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or widespread skin reactions. These are rare but require prompt attention.

 

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

 

Correct storage helps maintain the gel's effectiveness and safety throughout its shelf life. Follow these storage guidelines:

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Do not freeze the gel
  • 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
  • Return unused or expired medicine to your local pharmacy — do not dispose of via household waste or sink

If you're managing multiple health conditions and need to store several medicines, our first aid collection includes storage solutions and other essentials to keep your home medicine cabinet well organised.

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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 joint pain gel online in the UK?

You can buy Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel online from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered UK online pharmacy. It is available without a prescription as an over-the-counter Pharmacy (P) medicine. Browse our full pain relief collection for this and other options.

How does Voltarol joint pain gel work in the body?

Voltarol gel contains diclofenac diethylammonium, an NSAID that inhibits the COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes responsible for producing prostaglandins — the chemicals that cause pain and swelling. When applied to the skin, diclofenac penetrates into the underlying tissue, including joints and muscles, to reduce inflammation locally. Because it works topically, systemic absorption is much lower than with oral diclofenac tablets.

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

Wash your hands, then squeeze approximately 2–4 g of gel onto your fingertip or directly onto the affected area. Gently massage it into the skin until fully absorbed, then wash your hands again unless you are treating your hands. Avoid applying near the eyes, mouth, or broken skin, and do not cover with an airtight dressing.

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

Apply the gel twice daily, roughly every 12 hours — for example, once in the morning and once in the evening. Do not apply more than twice in any 24-hour period. Sticking to the twice-daily schedule is important to maintain consistent levels of diclofenac in the tissue.

What are the side effects of Voltarol joint pain gel?

The most common side effects are localised skin reactions at the application site, including redness, itching, dryness, or a mild rash. Less commonly, some people experience contact dermatitis or photosensitivity at the treated area. Serious allergic reactions are rare — stop using the gel and seek medical advice immediately if you develop facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or a widespread skin reaction.

Can I use Voltarol gel if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Voltarol gel is not recommended during pregnancy, particularly from 20 weeks onwards, as NSAIDs may affect fetal kidney development and reduce amniotic fluid levels. During breastfeeding, use should be avoided on large areas of skin or for prolonged periods, and never applied to the breast area. Always speak to your GP or midwife before using any NSAID-containing product during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Who is eligible to use Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel?

The gel is suitable for adults and adolescents aged 14 years and over who have localised joint pain, osteoarthritis of the knee or small hand joints, or soft tissue injuries such as sprains and strains. It is not suitable for children under 14, people with NSAID allergies, or those with broken or infected skin at the application site. If you have kidney, liver, or heart conditions, consult your pharmacist or GP before use.

What happens if I accidentally apply too much Voltarol gel?

If you apply more than the recommended amount, wipe off any excess gel with a clean tissue and wash the area with soap and water. Applying too much does not necessarily increase the therapeutic effect but may increase the risk of local skin irritation. If you accidentally swallow any gel or experience unusual symptoms, contact NHS 111 or your nearest A&E immediately.

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

For most people, Voltarol gel is intended for short-term use of up to 14 days for soft tissue injuries. For osteoarthritis, your doctor may advise longer use under supervision. If your symptoms have not improved after two weeks of self-treatment, stop using the gel and consult your GP or pharmacist for further assessment.

Is Voltarol gel the same as ibuprofen gel?

No — they contain different active ingredients. Voltarol contains diclofenac diethylammonium, while ibuprofen gels contain ibuprofen. Both are topical NSAIDs that reduce pain and inflammation locally, but Voltarol's 12-hour formulation means you only need to apply it twice daily compared to up to four times daily for most ibuprofen gels. The choice between them may depend on personal preference, tolerability, and the specific condition being treated.

Can I use Voltarol gel alongside oral pain relief tablets?

Using Voltarol gel alongside paracetamol is generally considered safe, but combining it with oral NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen is not recommended as this increases the risk of systemic NSAID side effects. Always tell your pharmacist about all medicines you are taking before combining treatments. Our pain relief range includes a variety of options to suit different needs.

Can Voltarol gel be used on the back or neck?

Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel is licensed for use on joints and soft tissue areas, and many people use it for back and neck pain in practice. However, the product's licensed indications specifically cover the knee and small hand joints for osteoarthritis, and soft tissue injuries more broadly. If you are unsure whether it is appropriate for your specific area of pain, speak to your pharmacist before use.

What are the alternatives to Voltarol joint pain gel?

Alternatives include other topical NSAIDs such as ibuprofen gel (e.g. Ibuleve), topical ketoprofen (prescription only in the UK), and non-NSAID options such as capsaicin cream or cooling/heating gels. Oral pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen tablets may also be appropriate depending on the severity of your pain. Browse our creams and ointments collection for a range of topical pain relief products.

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

Clinical evidence supports the use of topical diclofenac for knee osteoarthritis, with NICE guidelines acknowledging topical NSAIDs as a first-line treatment option for localised joint pain, particularly in older adults where oral NSAIDs carry greater cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks. Studies have shown that topical diclofenac provides meaningful pain relief with a lower systemic side effect profile compared to oral formulations. The NHS also recognises topical NSAIDs as a useful option in the management of osteoarthritis.

Can I use Voltarol gel on my hands if I have hand osteoarthritis?

Yes — Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel is specifically licensed for osteoarthritis of the small joints of the hand, making it a suitable option for hand and finger joint pain. Apply a small amount to the affected joints and massage in gently, then wash your hands after a few minutes if you need to handle food or touch your face. Avoid applying near the eyes or mouth after treating the hands.

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

Using Voltarol gel correctly is straightforward, but a few simple steps make a real difference to both effectiveness and safety. Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with the product before use, and follow these steps each time you apply the gel.

Do not apply to broken, damaged, infected, or inflamed skin. Do not apply to more than two body areas simultaneously.

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

The recommended dose depends on the size of the area being treated. As a general guide, 2–4 g per application is appropriate for most joint areas. Do not apply more than this at a single application, and do not exceed two applications per day.

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

Because each application lasts up to 12 hours, the most practical approach is to apply the gel once in the morning and once in the evening — spacing applications roughly 12 hours apart. Applying in the morning helps manage stiffness and pain during the day, while an evening application can support comfort overnight, particularly for those with osteoarthritis who experience night-time joint discomfort.

Try to apply at consistent times each day to maintain steady levels of diclofenac in the tissue. If you miss an application, apply it as soon as you remember — but if it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as normal. Never apply a double dose to make up for a missed application.

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

For soft tissue injuries such as sprains and strains, Voltarol gel is recommended for short-term use of up to 14 days. Most people find their symptoms improve significantly within this period. For osteoarthritis, your GP or pharmacist may advise longer-term use under supervision, as the condition is chronic and ongoing management may be appropriate.

If your symptoms have not improved after two weeks of self-treatment, or if they worsen at any point, stop using the gel and consult your GP. Prolonged unsupervised use is not recommended without medical advice.

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

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Understanding potential side effects

Like all medicines, Voltarol 12 Hour Joint Pain Relief Gel can have side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Most people tolerate topical diclofenac well, with side effects typically being mild and localised to the application site. You can find additional creams and ointments for various skin conditions if you experience local reactions.

The most common side effects occur at the application site and include skin irritation, redness, or itching. These reactions are usually mild and resolve when you stop using the gel.

  • Skin redness or rash at application site
  • Itching or burning sensation
  • Dry skin or peeling
  • Local swelling or inflammation
  • Skin sensitivity or dermatitis
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Stomach upset
  • Allergic reactions including hives
  • Increased sensitivity to sunlight
  • Eye irritation if accidentally contacted

If you experience these or any other side effects, speak to your doctor or pharmacist right away. For more information about reporting side effects please see the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.

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

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Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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