Voltaren Gel is a widely available topical medication often used to manage joint pain, including discomfort that can occur in the hands. This gel contains diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by reducing substances in the body that cause inflammation and pain. Understanding the proper method for applying this medication is important for both its effectiveness and user safety.
Preparing for Application
Before applying Voltaren Gel, ensure the skin on your hands is clean and dry. Wash your hands with soap and water, then pat them dry with a clean towel. This prevents contamination and ensures effective absorption.
Inspect the application area. Avoid applying Voltaren Gel to skin that is cut, scraped, infected, has an open wound, rashes, or other irritation, as this could lead to irritation or systemic absorption issues. Always consult the product’s package insert or label for any specific instructions or warnings regarding skin conditions.
Correct Application Steps
Squeeze the tube to dispense the recommended amount of gel onto your hand. For typical adult use on the hands, a small, consistent amount, often measured by a length such as two to four grams of gel, is usually sufficient. This amount is generally equivalent to the length of gel dispensed along a measuring card, if provided, or about the size of a cherry or walnut. It is important not to exceed the recommended dosage, as using more gel than advised does not necessarily increase its effectiveness and may heighten the risk of side effects.
Once the gel is on your hand, use your fingers to rub it into the affected area. Spread the gel evenly, covering the painful joint. Continue to rub the gel into your skin until it is fully absorbed and no longer visible on the surface. This process ensures the active ingredient, diclofenac, can penetrate the skin and reach the underlying tissues where it can exert its anti-inflammatory effects.
Voltaren Gel is applied to the affected area three to four times a day, with doses spaced evenly throughout the day. For example, you might apply it in the morning, midday, late afternoon, and before bed. Consistent application according to the product’s instructions helps maintain a steady level of the medication in the tissues, providing continuous pain relief.
After Application Care
After you have rubbed the Voltaren Gel into your hands, take precautions. Unless your hands are the specific area being treated, wash them with soap and water immediately after application. This helps to remove any residual gel from your fingertips and prevents accidental transfer. If your hands are the treated area, wait at least one hour after application before washing them to allow for proper absorption of the medication.
Avoid contact of the treated area with your eyes, mouth, nose, and other mucous membranes. Accidental contact with these sensitive areas can cause irritation. If contact does occur, rinse the affected area with plenty of water. Do not cover the treated area with bandages, wraps, or heat pads unless specifically instructed to do so by a healthcare professional. Occlusive dressings or external heat sources can increase the absorption of the medication, potentially leading to a higher risk of systemic side effects.
Essential Safety Guidance
Be aware of potential side effects and safety considerations. Some individuals may experience localized skin reactions at the application site, such as redness, itching, dryness, or a rash. These reactions are typically mild and often resolve on their own. If any skin irritation becomes severe or persistent, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
Individuals with a known allergy to diclofenac, aspirin, or other NSAIDs should avoid using Voltaren Gel. This includes those who have experienced asthma, hives, or allergic reactions after taking these medications. People with certain underlying medical conditions, such as severe kidney disease, liver disease, or heart failure, should exercise caution and consult a doctor before using topical NSAIDs.
If your pain persists, worsens, or if new symptoms develop after using Voltaren Gel, it is advisable to seek medical advice. If you experience any severe or unusual side effects, such as signs of an allergic reaction like difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, stop using the gel immediately and seek emergency medical attention. Diclofenac, even in topical form, can interact with other medications. Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies, to avoid potential drug interactions.