What is the concentration percentage of diclofenac in regular Voltaren (diclofenac sodium) gel?

Voltaren Gel Concentration

Regular Voltaren gel contains 3% diclofenac sodium in a 2.5% hyaluronic acid gel formulation. 1, 2

Standard Formulation Details

• The licensed formulation is diclofenac 3% in 2.5% hyaluronic acid gel, approved for twice-daily application over 60-90 days for actinic keratosis treatment 1, 2

• This 3% concentration should not be confused with other diclofenac topical products, which come in different strengths:

  • 1% diclofenac sodium gel (Voltaren Gel) for osteoarthritis 3
  • 2% diclofenac sodium topical solution for knee osteoarthritis 4
  • 1.16% diclofenac diethylamine emulsion (Voltaren Emulgel) 5, 6
  • 0.1% diclofenac sodium ophthalmic solution for eye conditions 7

Important Clinical Distinction

• The concentration alone does not determine efficacy or absorption. A study comparing 1.16% diclofenac diethylamine emulsion versus 5% diclofenac sodium gel showed the lower-concentration product achieved 7-fold greater skin permeation (0.54% vs 0.077% of applied dose), demonstrating that formulation characteristics—including viscosity, composition, and drug solubility—matter more than concentration percentage 5

• The 3% gel formulation in hyaluronic acid has lower viscosity (allowing better penetration) compared to higher-concentration gels that may have reduced bioavailability due to formulation properties 5

Regulatory Context

• The 3% diclofenac gel is specifically licensed for adult patients with actinic keratosis only, not for pediatric populations or musculoskeletal indications 8, 2

• All diclofenac formulations carry cardiovascular risk warnings, including increased risk of myocardial infarction and stroke, particularly in patients with cardiovascular disease or risk factors 1, 2