Voltarol 100g 2.32% gel

 

What Is Voltarol Gel and How Does It Relieve Pain?

 

If you're dealing with aching joints, a stiff back, or sore muscles after exercise, you'll know how much it can affect your day. Voltarol gel is a topical anti-inflammatory gel containing diclofenac diethylammonium 2.32% w/w — a well-established non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) applied directly to the skin. It's one of the most widely recognised over-the-counter options for localised pain relief in the UK, and it's available here at Cured Pharmacy for £16.90 per 100g tube. You can browse our full range of pain relief products if you're looking for additional options alongside this gel.

Diclofenac works at the site of pain rather than being absorbed into the bloodstream in significant amounts, which is one reason many people prefer it to oral painkillers. The 2.32% concentration means you typically need fewer daily applications compared to lower-strength formulations — making it a practical choice for people managing ongoing discomfort.

 

How Does Voltarol 2.32% Gel Work on Pain and Inflammation?

 

Diclofenac, the active ingredient in Voltarol gel, belongs to the NSAID class of medicines. It works by blocking cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes — specifically COX-1 and COX-2 — which are responsible for producing prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemical messengers that trigger pain, swelling, and inflammation in the body. By reducing their production locally, the gel helps ease discomfort without the systemic effects associated with oral NSAIDs.

• Diclofenac penetrates the skin and underlying tissue to reach the site of inflammation
• COX enzyme inhibition reduces prostaglandin synthesis locally
• Swelling, stiffness, and pain signals are dampened at the source
• Systemic absorption is low compared to oral diclofenac tablets

 

Who Is Voltarol 2.32% Gel Suitable For?

 

This gel is suitable for adults and young people aged 14 years and over. It's particularly useful for people who prefer not to take oral painkillers, or those who find that tablets upset their stomach. That said, it's not appropriate for everyone — always read the label carefully before use.

• Adults with localised joint pain, such as knee or wrist pain
• People with mild to moderate muscle strains or sprains
• Those with osteoarthritis-related pain in accessible joints
• Individuals who want targeted relief without systemic medication

 

How Does Voltarol 2.32% Gel Compare to Other Topical Pain Gels?

 

 

Is Voltarol Gel Safe to Store and Use Long-Term?

 

Store Voltarol gel below 25°C and keep it away from direct heat or sunlight. Do not freeze the tube. Once opened, use within the period indicated on the packaging. Keep it out of reach of children at all times. If you're managing a longer-term condition and looking for complementary support, our creams and ointments collection includes a range of topical treatments worth exploring.

It's worth noting that Voltarol gel is intended for short-term use — typically no longer than 14 days without medical advice. If your pain persists beyond this, please speak to your GP or pharmacist. Prolonged use without review isn't recommended.

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 100g 2.32% Gel specifications

Treatment category	Pain relief / Anti-inflammatory
Mechanism of action	COX-1 and COX-2 enzyme inhibition reducing prostaglandin synthesis
Effective for	Joint pain, muscle pain, sprains, strains, osteoarthritis
Suitable for	Adults and young people aged 14 years and over
Active ingredient	Diclofenac diethylammonium 2.32% w/w
Pack size	100g
Strength	2.32% w/w
UK classification	P (Pharmacy medicine)
Drug class	Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
Preparation	Topical gel
Route of administration	Topical (cutaneous)

Specifications of Voltarol 100g 2.32% Gel

 

What Is Voltarol 100g 2.32% Gel and What Is It Used For?

 

Voltarol 100g 2.32% gel is a topical NSAID medicine used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in muscles and joints. It contains diclofenac diethylammonium as its active ingredient and is applied directly to the skin over the affected area. It is licensed for use in adults and young people aged 14 and over for the symptomatic relief of localised pain associated with:

• Sprains and strains
• Soft tissue injuries
• Mild to moderate joint pain, including osteoarthritis of accessible joints such as the knee
• Back pain and muscle aches

It is not a cure for any underlying condition — it manages symptoms. If you're unsure whether this product is right for you, speak to a pharmacist before purchasing.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Voltarol 2.32% Gel?

 

Do not use this gel if any of the following apply to you:

• You are allergic to diclofenac, aspirin, ibuprofen, or any other NSAID
• You have ever had an allergic reaction (such as asthma, hives, or rhinitis) after taking an NSAID
• You are in the last trimester of pregnancy (28 weeks or more)
• You are under 14 years of age
• The skin at the application site is broken, infected, or has eczema or dermatitis
• You have a known hypersensitivity to any of the excipients in the formulation

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

• Are pregnant (especially from 20 weeks onwards) or breastfeeding
• Have impaired kidney or liver function
• Have a history of gastrointestinal problems (though topical absorption is low)
• Are using other NSAIDs, either topically or orally

Drug interactions to be aware of:

• Anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin) — systemic absorption is low, but caution is advised
• Other topical NSAIDs — avoid concurrent use on the same area
• Oral NSAIDs — combined use may increase the risk of systemic side effects

 

How Should You Use Voltarol 2.32% 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 instructed, and never use it on large areas of the body simultaneously.

1. Wash and dry your hands before use
2. Squeeze a small amount of gel (approximately 2–4g, roughly the size of a 50p coin) onto your fingertip
3. Gently rub the gel into the skin over the painful area until fully absorbed
4. Wash your hands thoroughly after application (unless treating the hands)
5. Do not cover the treated area with an airtight dressing or bandage
6. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Voltarol 2.32% Gel?

 

Like all medicines, Voltarol gel can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are localised to the skin at the application site. If you experience any serious reaction, stop using the gel and seek medical advice immediately. You can also find further guidance in our first aid section for managing minor skin reactions.

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

• Skin redness or erythema at the application site
• Itching or pruritus
• Dry or flaking skin
• Mild burning or stinging sensation after application

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

• Contact dermatitis
• Localised rash or urticaria
• Skin discolouration
• Photosensitivity reactions (increased sensitivity to sunlight at the treated area)

Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are rare but possible. Signs include swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash. If you notice any of these, stop use immediately and call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.

 

How Should You Store Voltarol 2.32% Gel Safely?

 

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

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
• Do not freeze
• Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube and carton
• Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicines to your pharmacy

If you're managing multiple conditions and need to store several medicines, it's worth keeping a dedicated, cool medicine cabinet away from bathrooms where humidity can affect products. For other topical treatments you may be storing alongside this gel, explore our skin care range for complementary options.