What is the standard dose of Voltaren (diclofenac) gel 1%?

Standard Dosing of Voltaren Gel 1%

The standard dose of Voltaren (diclofenac) gel 1% is 2 pump actuations (40 mg diclofenac sodium) applied to each affected area 2 times daily. 1

Proper Application Technique

Application Steps:

1. Apply to clean, dry skin
2. Prime the pump before first use (4 full depressions while holding bottle upright)
3. Dispense 2 pump actuations (40 mg) directly onto the affected area or first into your hand
4. Spread evenly around the treatment area
5. Wash hands completely after application

Important Precautions:

• Wait at least 30 minutes after application before showering/bathing
• Ensure the treated area is completely dry before covering with clothing
• Avoid skin-to-skin contact between other people and the treated area until completely dry
• Wait until the area is dry before applying sunscreen, insect repellent, cosmetics, or other topical medications

Special Considerations

Duration of Use:

• Use the lowest effective dosage for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals 1
• For osteoarthritis treatment, clinical trials have demonstrated effectiveness over 8-week periods 2

Specific Applications:

• For knee osteoarthritis: Apply 40 mg (2 pump actuations) to each painful knee, twice daily 1
• For hand osteoarthritis: Apply 4 times daily (based on clinical trials showing efficacy with this frequency) 2

Contraindications and Warnings:

• Do not apply to open wounds
• Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes
• Do not use external heat or occlusive dressings on treated areas
• Avoid combination therapy with oral NSAIDs unless benefit outweighs risk 1

Efficacy and Safety Profile

Topical diclofenac 1% gel has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing pain intensity by 42-45% in clinical trials for hand osteoarthritis 2. The most common treatment-related adverse event is application-site paresthesia, with most adverse events being mild 2.

When used as directed, topical diclofenac provides targeted pain relief with minimal systemic absorption, making it a safer alternative to oral NSAIDs for many patients with localized pain.