Voltaren Gel belongs to a family of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Drugs.com explains that the gel is used to treat joint pain in the hands, wrists, elbows, knees, ankles or feet often caused by osteoarthritis. Voltaren Gel is not effective in treating arthritis in other parts of the body, as indicated by Drugs.com. As with any medication, Voltaren Gel has the risk of side effects.
Less Serious Side Effects
According to Drugs.com, the following side effects are not considered to be serious unless they become persistent or overly bothersome: dryness at the site of application, itching at the site of application, peeling or scaling where the treatment is applied, fever, chills, sore throat, body aches or other flu-like symptoms.
Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects should be reported to a doctor and treatment should discontinue. Website eMedTV.com suggests possible hazards that can indicate a heart attack including chest pain, weakness, shortness of breath, speech slurring, vision problems or balance issues. Drugs.com lists other serious effects which include blackened stools, tarry stools, blood in the stools, coughing up blood or vomit that resembles coffee grounds, swelling, unusual weight gain or urinating less than usual or not at all. Individuals who have a fever, sore throat and headache accompanied by severe blistering, peeling or red rash of the skin should contact a doctor, warns Drugs.com.
Complications
Individuals should report their health concerns to their doctor before using Voltaren gel. According to eMedTV.com individuals with specific health conditions can experience an exacerbation of health problems. These conditions include asthma, heart disease, congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, liver disease, liver failure, kidney disease or failure, bleed troubles, ulcers of the stomach, bleeding in the stomach, recent heart surgery or allergies (including foods, dyes, medications or preservatives).
Drugs.com suggests the medication can increase the risk of liver problems and the symptoms may include nausea, abdominal pain, mild fever, appetite changes, darkened urine, clay-colored stools or jaundice.
Allergic Reaction
The medication can lead to an allergic reaction in some users. Drugs.com warns of side effects that can be life-threatening including hives, trouble breathing, facial swelling, swelling of the lips, swelling of the tongue or swelling of the throat.
Pregnancy
Women who are pregnant or are considering pregnancy should consult their health care provider before using Voltaren gel. This is also true for women who are breastfeeding. According to eMedTV.com, the FDA has designated Voltaren gel a pregnancy category C, meaning there are some risks to the fetus but the full extent of the possible damage is unknown.
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