Diclofenac

Diclofenac is an anti-inflammatory painkiller. It eases pain and swelling in conditions such as arthritis, sprains and back pain.

Type of medicine

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)

Also known as

Voltarol, Voltarol Emulgel, Arthrotec (with misoprostol)

Comes as

tablets, capsules, gel, suppositories, injection, eye drops

How you get it

Some forms from a pharmacy without a prescription

What it is used for

Pain and inflammation in arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
Back pain, sprains and strains
Gout attacks
Period pain, migraine and pain after surgery
Local pain and swelling (gel)

Read our guides:

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Kidney stone pain (suppositories or injection)

How it works

Diclofenac blocks enzymes called COX, which make prostaglandins. Prostaglandins cause pain, swelling and fever, so blocking them reduces these symptoms.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Diclofenac can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

indigestion
stomach pain
feeling sick
diarrhoea
headache
dizziness
skin irritation (gel)

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

black or bloody poo, or vomiting blood
chest pain, or signs of a heart attack or stroke. Call 999
swollen ankles, peeing less or breathlessness
yellowing of the skin or eyes

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

Tablets are not suitable for people with heart disease, heart failure or after a stroke.
Use the lowest dose for the shortest time.
Do not take it with other anti-inflammatory painkillers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
It can make asthma worse in some people.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.