Voltaren Gel Side Effects May Result in Liver Problems: FDA

• CherylMay 1, 2023 at 9:25 pm

  I bought some Voltaren at Costco but when I got home I read it contained the drug diclofenac. I have a form of porphyria diagnosed through abnormal fecal porphyrins called hereditary coproporphyria and recognized diclofenac from unsafe drug lists for porphyrias so I never used any of it. I also got major liver damage from only 2 capsules of Tylenol which is considered a safe single dose. I am con[Show More]I bought some Voltaren at Costco but when I got home I read it contained the drug diclofenac. I have a form of porphyria diagnosed through abnormal fecal porphyrins called hereditary coproporphyria and recognized diclofenac from unsafe drug lists for porphyrias so I never used any of it. I also got major liver damage from only 2 capsules of Tylenol which is considered a safe single dose. I am concerned the FDA is not protecting people with this class of genetic disorders and recommend people check out unsafe drug lists if Voltaren caused liver damage. These drug metabolizing genetic disorders are very difficult to diagnose unless gene carriers are in crisis. They also carry a high risk for liver cancer.

• CorySeptember 30, 2022 at 12:53 pm

  I have used this for about a 2 years for Arthritis, Fibromyalgia and pain from Endometriosis. I was just diagnosed with NASH yesterday. I can't believe I am reading this.

• CarrieSeptember 28, 2022 at 9:34 am

  I have used this for 2 years due to my Fibromyalgia and Sjogren's. I was just recently diagnosed with Stage 3 Fibrosis NASH of the liver. My liver was fine before and I had no clue how my liver got this way. I don't drink alcohol and I have always eaten healthy. I am so upset reading this!!

• VirginiaMay 4, 2022 at 8:43 pm

  Talked to my gastroenterologist about its causing liver problems,w and he said NO ! I have been using it since I broke 8 ribs and they have been plated in 3 places. I have been using about 2 years now. It is preferred to pills which are absorbed in the stomach and Advil is very hard on the kidneys. As we know there are lots of medications that are not good for all. The hospital used it on me[Show More]Talked to my gastroenterologist about its causing liver problems,w and he said NO ! I have been using it since I broke 8 ribs and they have been plated in 3 places. I have been using about 2 years now. It is preferred to pills which are absorbed in the stomach and Advil is very hard on the kidneys. As we know there are lots of medications that are not good for all. The hospital used it on me as well as was preferred by my primary care physician. DO NOT use heat where you have applied the gel.

• williamApril 12, 2022 at 3:31 pm

  I tried Icy Hot with menthol.....the stuff literally caused blisters on my knee and stung for couple hours...zero relief of pain....why do we buy this junk and why does the Government allow it's sale?

• KarenJuly 15, 2019 at 9:17 pm

  I have had severe skin reactions to the gel with cellulitis, surgery, infections etc. This has been going on since Aug.2014. I sure would love to have an attorney help me.

• JayneJune 28, 2016 at 2:15 pm

  I just started on voltaren gel for a little over a week. I also have other health issues. I am using it on my knee's after knee replacement. I honestly can say, I don't think it is working for me. The only thing it's doing, is making my knees feel numb. My pain is still there or worse. I don't know what to do. It also said something about liver damage. I had high liver emzines, and fatty liver. An[Show More]I just started on voltaren gel for a little over a week. I also have other health issues. I am using it on my knee's after knee replacement. I honestly can say, I don't think it is working for me. The only thing it's doing, is making my knees feel numb. My pain is still there or worse. I don't know what to do. It also said something about liver damage. I had high liver emzines, and fatty liver. Any suggestions? Should I try one more week and see if it works, or stop it? I will be asking my Dr. too!

• AudreyDecember 15, 2015 at 6:06 pm

  I started using Voltaren for rheumatoid arthritis about 3 months ago. The med helped with pain, but I started to get a lot of stomach aches and bloating, which I rarely ever got. Then my bloodwork came back from my dr that my liver function and creatinine levels were highly elevated! My dr discontinued the Voltaren and put me on Celebrex. Hopefully this one works better :(

• Karen MAugust 12, 2015 at 5:05 pm

  I used Voltaren Gel first time @ one year ago. I had major swelling blistering and rash resulting in infection on my foot, WHERE I never used the gel!! Then a few months later, the rash moved to the other side of my foot, still where the gel was NEVER applied; I used the gel on the outside of my rt. leg only for arthritis. The other side of my foot blew up, split infection, sepsis surgery!! This[Show More]I used Voltaren Gel first time @ one year ago. I had major swelling blistering and rash resulting in infection on my foot, WHERE I never used the gel!! Then a few months later, the rash moved to the other side of my foot, still where the gel was NEVER applied; I used the gel on the outside of my rt. leg only for arthritis. The other side of my foot blew up, split infection, sepsis surgery!! This drug is so dangerous. My docs just shrug their shoulders.

• MarieSeptember 30, 2012 at 6:18 am

  Always read the insert pamphlet before applying a new medication. If you did you would know voltaren jelly is an anti-inflammatory medicine. It absorbed into the bloodstream just like oral anti-inflammatory drugs. I've used it on my feet my hips back neck arms fingers. The trick here is to measure the dose properly. Anti- inflammatory drugs can cause gastrointestinal problems if you absorb too mu[Show More]Always read the insert pamphlet before applying a new medication. If you did you would know voltaren jelly is an anti-inflammatory medicine. It absorbed into the bloodstream just like oral anti-inflammatory drugs. I've used it on my feet my hips back neck arms fingers. The trick here is to measure the dose properly. Anti- inflammatory drugs can cause gastrointestinal problems if you absorb too much. Make sure you use the ruler that comes with it. Use it safely and it is an awesome medication

• HarryMay 19, 2012 at 1:33 pm

  Using Voltaren Gel 1% for one week on knee. Stool turns black. This also happens when other inflammatory drugs have been used. Some stomach irritation and pain seems even worse when gel is discontinued.

• ruthMay 8, 2012 at 3:38 am

  I used voltaren gel for nearly a year when suddenly my pharmist couldn't get it for me. I am devastated as it was the only thing I could use for my extreme pain from artritis. My Dr had previously taken me off my oral med because I am diabetic and my kidneys are not working as well as they were. I am using over the counter cream now and it just isn't cutting the pain. I hope Voltaren Gel comes av[Show More]I used voltaren gel for nearly a year when suddenly my pharmist couldn't get it for me. I am devastated as it was the only thing I could use for my extreme pain from artritis. My Dr had previously taken me off my oral med because I am diabetic and my kidneys are not working as well as they were. I am using over the counter cream now and it just isn't cutting the pain. I hope Voltaren Gel comes avaible again soon as I can't go on with this pain

• ashokMay 2, 2012 at 3:58 pm

  please suggest using votaren gel to my father who is 85 years old & he feel much pain in foot /toes and foot . figures.

• RenaFebruary 16, 2012 at 10:57 pm

  I have been usinng votaren gel for 6 mos now on my knees, lower back, wrist with significant pain relief and no noted s/e. I just learned from my pharmac that there is no more of this gel available in my area(south Worcester County) + noone knows when it will be. I am devastated! Is anyone else having trouble getting it?

• TERESITAFebruary 1, 2012 at 8:40 pm

  I HAVE USED VOLTAREN GEL 1% ON MY KNEES AND SHOULDERS WITHOUT ANY PROBLEMS.

• VickiOctober 16, 2011 at 8:39 pm

  I've been using the Voltaren periodically for over a year on my low back. Within the last three months I've been using it almost daily in that same location. Recently I have developed a condition on both forearms where blood is pooling in different places, resulting in either bruising or just ugly red places. It is especially prevalent if I scratch or bump my arms. I quit taking Gingo Biloba as [Show More]I've been using the Voltaren periodically for over a year on my low back. Within the last three months I've been using it almost daily in that same location. Recently I have developed a condition on both forearms where blood is pooling in different places, resulting in either bruising or just ugly red places. It is especially prevalent if I scratch or bump my arms. I quit taking Gingo Biloba as one of the side effects is thinning blood. But worried now that Voltaren could be the culprit? Any similar reactions out there?

• RoyAugust 22, 2011 at 4:02 pm

  I used a small sample of Voltaren Gel on My LEFT hand in May 2011 after surgery for trigger finger. Next day, my RIGHT big toe joint developed swelling and extreme pain. I reported this to my my doctor, who raised his eyebrows and suggested that I try the Voltaren again when the joint pain had dissipated. As I was going on an overseas trip, I delayed the re-try until I returned. I tried another [Show More]I used a small sample of Voltaren Gel on My LEFT hand in May 2011 after surgery for trigger finger. Next day, my RIGHT big toe joint developed swelling and extreme pain. I reported this to my my doctor, who raised his eyebrows and suggested that I try the Voltaren again when the joint pain had dissipated. As I was going on an overseas trip, I delayed the re-try until I returned. I tried another small application on my LEFT hand on August19th at about 3.00pm. By 9.00pm, my RIGHT big toe joint was again inflamed and extremely painful. As the next day was Saturday August 20th, I went to the ER. The ER Doc diagnosed the problem as PSEUOGOUT, and prescribed a pain reliever and an anti inflamatory medicine. That Doctor raised his eyebrows too, as there did not seem to be a connection, however, this was the SECOND time this had happened. Have there been others like this?

• joeAugust 10, 2011 at 9:09 pm

  my wife had an abdominal mesh surgery for multiple hernias (first repaired 6 months earlier during a colon resection but those hernia repairs failed and burst...) and when she developed internal hematomas(described by the surgeon and staff as blood clots) she was handed off to a pain clinic which prescribed Flector patches over the two blood clots. It was opined that the pain from the clots would [Show More]my wife had an abdominal mesh surgery for multiple hernias (first repaired 6 months earlier during a colon resection but those hernia repairs failed and burst...) and when she developed internal hematomas(described by the surgeon and staff as blood clots) she was handed off to a pain clinic which prescribed Flector patches over the two blood clots. It was opined that the pain from the clots would be addressed as well as to assist in disolving the clots and reabsorbing the drainagethat had solidified. after following the instructions (12 hours, change patch and apply fresh one another 12 hours ((24/7)) ) of the pain M.D. after 14 days religiously following directions she had developed a huge blister over one of the clots. My wife had discontinued the patches on her own and when she next visited the pain clinic the M.D.'s LPN prescribed voltaren with what turned out to be the same active ingredient as the flector patch. She discontinued the cream when the blister turned into a large open pus draining sore that became painful in it's own right. She has since cancelled her appts. with this clinic and with OTC abx cream has finally had the sore begin to heal. This timeline was about 8 weeks from the last LPN visit until now that this patch induced open sore is finally closing and healing up. The original sore and blister took about a week to 10 days to become pronounced.

• gwenAugust 5, 2011 at 3:24 am

  I have used Voltaren Gel about two years and didn't know of any side effects but I read about a rash and I have had some skin rash problems. I went to a dermatologist and they said it was dermatitis. I have used it on my neck to my toes, most times it is hands, back, shoulders though. Everyone is different and should be careful of any medicine. I have had great pain releif with the Voltaren Gel a[Show More]I have used Voltaren Gel about two years and didn't know of any side effects but I read about a rash and I have had some skin rash problems. I went to a dermatologist and they said it was dermatitis. I have used it on my neck to my toes, most times it is hands, back, shoulders though. Everyone is different and should be careful of any medicine. I have had great pain releif with the Voltaren Gel and recommended it to about 4 friends who talked to their doctor. All are using it with no side effects but I use more of it than anyone. I use up to 5 tubes a month (as prescribed by my rheumatologist).

• JohnJune 22, 2011 at 7:52 pm

  Voltaren Gel was perscribed to my wife for joint inflamation (hip, knees, etc.) She found that it relieved her pain and soreness. To date she has had no side effects. Since it worked well on her, I decided to try the gel on my own sore knees and leg muscles, in addition to applying it to my hand and wrist. After two days of use, I have had what I believe to be a significant side effect with the [Show More]Voltaren Gel was perscribed to my wife for joint inflamation (hip, knees, etc.) She found that it relieved her pain and soreness. To date she has had no side effects. Since it worked well on her, I decided to try the gel on my own sore knees and leg muscles, in addition to applying it to my hand and wrist. After two days of use, I have had what I believe to be a significant side effect with the use of the gel. I have lost my sense of taste completely. This is continuing as I write this(two + weeks). In addition, the night after I had used the gel the most, in the most areas on my body, I awoke from a sound sleep with a tremendous,crushing pain in my chest, left side and back. At first, I thought that I was experiencing a heart attack the pain was so intense and constant. However, after 10 to 15 minutes the pain subsided and completely left. In the morning I had no pain from what awoke me the night before, however I could not taste anything, as noted above. This may be co-incidental, however, I will not use this medication again until a physician or medical tests indicate that this medication was the cause for what I have and am experiencing now.

• MichaelApril 20, 2011 at 7:09 pm

  I started using Diclofenac 5% cream on my knee about a year ago. Diclofenac is the active ingredient in Voltaren. About 4 months ago, I started using the same Diclofenac cream on both shoulders and my neck, for arthritic pain and tendinitis. I have received much relief from the pain of the inflammation, and have noticed no side effects at all. We are not all made from the same mold and what may be[Show More]I started using Diclofenac 5% cream on my knee about a year ago. Diclofenac is the active ingredient in Voltaren. About 4 months ago, I started using the same Diclofenac cream on both shoulders and my neck, for arthritic pain and tendinitis. I have received much relief from the pain of the inflammation, and have noticed no side effects at all. We are not all made from the same mold and what may be a God send remedy for some of us, might be harmful for others. I would suggest that everyone use medications with the strict guidance from their doctors only.

• nottheedMarch 18, 2011 at 7:57 am

  my husband was givin a free sample of Veltaeen sample from his doctor for shoulder pain on a Friday and was dead by the next Wenesday. Please don't tuse this medicatios harmful !***** a

• VanessaMarch 2, 2011 at 6:36 pm

  Voltaren Gel 1% samples were given to my husband from his physician for his severe back pain, it did not at all help him so he gave me the samples. I have Peripheral Neuropathy, lived with pain daily and have a burning sensation daily with pain on the bottom of my feet. I applied the Voltaren Gel to my feet and wow, this is the first time in my life that anything worked. I can walk better and I am[Show More]Voltaren Gel 1% samples were given to my husband from his physician for his severe back pain, it did not at all help him so he gave me the samples. I have Peripheral Neuropathy, lived with pain daily and have a burning sensation daily with pain on the bottom of my feet. I applied the Voltaren Gel to my feet and wow, this is the first time in my life that anything worked. I can walk better and I am now finally without that burning sensation. This is a great gel and I highly recommend this to anyone with the same problems as I.

• patriciaFebruary 20, 2011 at 5:52 am

  i developed a very bad urinary tract infection. is it from the voltaren gel? i am diabetic and have 3 stents in my heart. neuropathy of the feet and legs and a bypass in my right leg and 3 stents in my rt lower leg.

• JackieFebruary 4, 2011 at 3:49 pm

  I started with Arthotec pill for 1 1/2 weeks for heal pain, couldn't tolerate the GI side effects, so was switched to a flector patch, which was difficult to use on the heal, then went to Voltaren gel for about a month,lower dose then suggested in the literature included, only 2gms three time day, and then I started urinating blood, with some right sided back pain, I will be evaluted for kidney da[Show More]I started with Arthotec pill for 1 1/2 weeks for heal pain, couldn't tolerate the GI side effects, so was switched to a flector patch, which was difficult to use on the heal, then went to Voltaren gel for about a month,lower dose then suggested in the literature included, only 2gms three time day, and then I started urinating blood, with some right sided back pain, I will be evaluted for kidney damage or poss. liver damage, I had no previous medical issues exc. high chol. These both are listed as serious side effects. Wish me luck for no long term damage.

• ellenJanuary 12, 2011 at 7:34 pm

  I have severe osteoarthritis in my foot from an old injury. Nothing relieves the pain when it risks in except a lidoderm patch. It is usually used for shingles and with pre authorization, Medicaid covers it. Hope this helps someone.

• PegDecember 26, 2010 at 2:42 am

  I have been using the Valteren gel for months on my shoulder & neck. Although, I have used the gel as perscribed but at different times during my shoulder recovery I did stop use because of blisters, rash and also notices sometimes while putting the gel on, it felt like stinging in my shoulder?? I just use the gel until that happens. I think it is helping my shoulder thru. So, I also wonder wh[Show More]I have been using the Valteren gel for months on my shoulder & neck. Although, I have used the gel as perscribed but at different times during my shoulder recovery I did stop use because of blisters, rash and also notices sometimes while putting the gel on, it felt like stinging in my shoulder?? I just use the gel until that happens. I think it is helping my shoulder thru. So, I also wonder what exactly is being absorbed thru my skin and into my body. My husband has also used the gel on his knees with no adverse effects but probably because he didn't follow the perscription dose and for an extended period of time. I am still a little leery of the gel but in my mind I am hoping it is helping me recover a bit.

• rishiDecember 7, 2010 at 4:36 pm

  i have been using since y'day pain relieved i would like to know whether there will be any side effects.

• AbnerNovember 28, 2010 at 6:12 pm

  I have been using this product for several month. Granted not every day. I have no side side effects, but all the benifits. I want to thank my friend for sending me this link.

• S.WoelperNovember 9, 2010 at 11:09 pm

  I would like to know. I have used Volteren for about 2 months and I would like to know if it has any effect on fingernails, My nalsl were in very good condition, until I started to use the gel, they cracked and split and finally broke off.

• JuneOctober 6, 2010 at 11:31 pm

  I had arthroscopic knee surgery in February for a torn meniscus, which had been extremely painful. The relief was immediate, but about 6-8 weeks later, a lot of the pain returned, to the point that walking was very uncomfortable, and turning over in bed was an ordeal. Another doctor applied a Flector Patch; the relief was immediate. My insurance would not cover the patch, but covered the gel. Usin[Show More]I had arthroscopic knee surgery in February for a torn meniscus, which had been extremely painful. The relief was immediate, but about 6-8 weeks later, a lot of the pain returned, to the point that walking was very uncomfortable, and turning over in bed was an ordeal. Another doctor applied a Flector Patch; the relief was immediate. My insurance would not cover the patch, but covered the gel. Using the gel twice daily for a couple of weeks, I was able to resume normal life with only occasional pain,. Now I use the gel rarely, but I'm glad it's available if I need it. I hate overuse of meds, and I'm happy that I don't need it often. I have not experienced any side effects. P.S. I'm over 70 years old.

• CarolOctober 1, 2010 at 9:31 pm

  I just start using Voltaren gel as of yesterday on my neck i feel some relieve. Have terrible neck and back pain. I do have a bit of a stiff neck since yesterday not sure if i slept wrong or if it is related to the gel.

• DianaSeptember 24, 2010 at 3:56 am

  So Jerry does Ketoprofen gel work for you?? I have just started Voltaren gel and today it works to 'Kill" the pain. But tomorrow will tell another story ....And the day after... I can't tolerate anything by mouth so anything topical is of interest to me. Please share your topical( skin) med stories........... Thanks Diana knee gimp

• JerrySeptember 16, 2010 at 7:20 pm

  I use ketoprofen gel which is available in Europe (France : Ketum gel / Belgium : Fastum gel) I use it for knee osteoarthritis. It is the only topical NSAI which is not absorbed in the blood and it gives high tissue concentrations in knee joint.

• MaryLeeSeptember 13, 2010 at 7:22 pm

  I have been useing Voltaren Gel on my knees for over a year. I would not be able to walk or sleep without it. Mainly use it at night when I go to bed. It does take away the pain. I have regular blood work and follow ups done with my doctor. My liver is fine and have never had any side effects. Will not stop useing it.

• franSeptember 3, 2010 at 3:27 pm

  Every time I use the flector patch, me heart races and I feel extremely tired, when I don't use it, I have mega foot pain. Which was do I go?

• ChrisAugust 16, 2010 at 9:47 pm

  We have to be smarter 'users' of these drugs here my friends... Most doctors just throw pills at clients nowadays and people are surprised when they read about serious problems or even deaths due to the use of these drugs. Wake up! Do your homework and read the side effects, then determine if its worth the risk to fix whatever it is you're suffering with. Weight the pros and cons out, because sadl[Show More]We have to be smarter 'users' of these drugs here my friends... Most doctors just throw pills at clients nowadays and people are surprised when they read about serious problems or even deaths due to the use of these drugs. Wake up! Do your homework and read the side effects, then determine if its worth the risk to fix whatever it is you're suffering with. Weight the pros and cons out, because sadly this is not being done by doctors nowadays. If you hurt your ankle and this was prescribed, chances are you're going to heal without this(though it may take longer). But think about it.. is a faster recovery worth a potential life threatening reaction?? What are the other routes with less risk of serious problems happening? If we continue to put our entire health on the line and not take part in any decision when it comes to these serious drugs and instead just pop them into our bodies, then we can expect more of these sad stories... please take care of yourselves when using these serious drugs, after all its YOUR health on the line, not the doctors. God bless.

• TimothyAugust 16, 2010 at 5:15 pm

  I used the patch on my back. I had a car accident in 2005 and have severe back problems. My syadic nerve is compressed by two discs in my back. I used the patch and had an allergic reaction, my heart raced and I had blurry vision! I was very disoriented and took it off quickly. Be very carefull in using this patch, at first sign of something wrong, discontinue the patch!

• MohamedJune 24, 2010 at 12:24 pm

  I have used Voltaren gel yesterday on my neck and back just beside my shoulder, it worked fine and reduced the pain. It was really bad and i couldn't move or stand up if I was seated. I recommend it to all

• BarbaraJune 16, 2010 at 5:44 pm

  My husband used voltaren cream for muscle ache in both shoulders. He probably used it for 3-4 months when suddenly he was having a hard time breathing. About 5 days later he had a severe rash on his shoulders where he had been applying the cream. The family doctor prescribed a steroid which got rid of the rash after several days but now almost 3 months later he's still having problems breathing[Show More]My husband used voltaren cream for muscle ache in both shoulders. He probably used it for 3-4 months when suddenly he was having a hard time breathing. About 5 days later he had a severe rash on his shoulders where he had been applying the cream. The family doctor prescribed a steroid which got rid of the rash after several days but now almost 3 months later he's still having problems breathing. A side effect listed was both rash & severe shortness of breath. He hasn't used the cream for 3 months so I'm wondering if the shortness of breath could still be related. He was a very healthy man with no medical problems before this.

• NoraJune 14, 2010 at 2:57 pm

  I was given a sample of Voltaren Gel at an Orthopedic's office for pain in my foot. The nurse suggested that I try it on my back even though it had not been studied for back pain. It worked well enough on my lower back that I asked my GP for a prescription and she happily granted my request. Since that time, I have also used it on a severe ankle sprain and for tension headaches at the base of m[Show More]I was given a sample of Voltaren Gel at an Orthopedic's office for pain in my foot. The nurse suggested that I try it on my back even though it had not been studied for back pain. It worked well enough on my lower back that I asked my GP for a prescription and she happily granted my request. Since that time, I have also used it on a severe ankle sprain and for tension headaches at the base of my neck with positive results. I have had no side effects.

• CONNIEMay 18, 2010 at 2:24 am

  I have been applying the voltaren Gel to the thoracic area of my spine and started to notice a redish burn in that area. Been using the gel now for about a month but the last two times I applied the gel I had severe thoracic burn and pain and thought I was having a heart attack After the first attack, I ended up in the emergency room and found out it was not my heart. The doctors there administ[Show More]I have been applying the voltaren Gel to the thoracic area of my spine and started to notice a redish burn in that area. Been using the gel now for about a month but the last two times I applied the gel I had severe thoracic burn and pain and thought I was having a heart attack After the first attack, I ended up in the emergency room and found out it was not my heart. The doctors there administered a combination drug of dilaudid and fennidryl (spelling) and the pain stopped in my middle back I was released and went home. This is 1-1/2 days later and I am experiencing another attack just like the first one that ended me in the ER. Called the doctor who ordered the Votlaren Gel and he said it could be a systemic reaction or just an alergic reaction. Still not sure if these symptoms are due to the gel but am in the process of seeking the answers.

• LeonardApril 27, 2010 at 7:45 pm

  I began using the Flector Patch in late Jan., 2010 & had a stroke march 1, The Dr said I had none of the usual markers of a stroke ( weight, cholesterol ect ) & it was below the brain stem. The patch was the only new medicine. Has anyone else had this happen?

• wandaMarch 26, 2010 at 12:35 pm

  I am concerned about this drug because I have a lot of nausea since i have used this drug,also i am prone to have stomach problems and I am concered about this also,i cannot take advail or medications that are like this drug..I fell like th voltaren gel has helped me and I need to know these things or is there another drug i might use that is or works the same as voltaren gel.

• MichelleMarch 23, 2010 at 6:38 pm

  I used the flector patch 1 time and was admitted into the hospital for 3 days. I had major trouble with my heart rate, blood pressure, and liver. I still don't know if there will be longtime damage to my liver. The doctors that cared for me run every test possible for the trouble I was having, and the only reasoning for it was the patch.

• mhanerMarch 22, 2010 at 1:57 pm

  I think it is a wonderful gel. It helps greatly with the pain. I just hope that it will not cause more demage than I have already.

• M.H.March 19, 2010 at 6:53 pm

  Has anyone had Voltaren Gel recommended for use on lower back or neck? I've used it the past 4 days there and it seems to help-I got samples from my family doctor, but she didn't give me any warnings, or say those areas shouldn't be treated with the gel. However the warnings on the package say that hip/back usage hasn't been tested-!? Now I'm wondering if the close proximity of the back to the liv[Show More]Has anyone had Voltaren Gel recommended for use on lower back or neck? I've used it the past 4 days there and it seems to help-I got samples from my family doctor, but she didn't give me any warnings, or say those areas shouldn't be treated with the gel. However the warnings on the package say that hip/back usage hasn't been tested-!? Now I'm wondering if the close proximity of the back to the liver is a concern. Also, cardiovascular concerns - what is the cause of that warning with this gel?? I also must say that the relief is short-lived and pain comes back with a vengeance as the Voltaren wears off.

• MichelleMarch 8, 2010 at 10:42 pm

  There are absolutely ZERO reports to the FDA of liver damage with Voltaren Gel. The label was ONLY updated to bring tha label of ALL diclofenac containing products in line with the ORAL formulation. This drug is only 6% absorbed into the bloodstream relative to the oral. Drug concentration are 158 times lower than with the oral. Misinformation only serves to scare patients and is irresponsible[Show More]There are absolutely ZERO reports to the FDA of liver damage with Voltaren Gel. The label was ONLY updated to bring tha label of ALL diclofenac containing products in line with the ORAL formulation. This drug is only 6% absorbed into the bloodstream relative to the oral. Drug concentration are 158 times lower than with the oral. Misinformation only serves to scare patients and is irresponsible. Check with the FDA to verify. NO reports of liver damage exist, so feel confident in your medication.

• PatriciaMarch 4, 2010 at 2:49 pm

  My husband, George, is using Voltaren Gel every day and has been for a month or two. He says it's a wonderful product, that it greatly reduces his pain where it's applied. I decided to research this product and am concerned by the FDA's letter stating that Voltaren Gel has been linked to liver damage. I printed this report out and will show it to my husband so he can, in turn, show it to his do[Show More]My husband, George, is using Voltaren Gel every day and has been for a month or two. He says it's a wonderful product, that it greatly reduces his pain where it's applied. I decided to research this product and am concerned by the FDA's letter stating that Voltaren Gel has been linked to liver damage. I printed this report out and will show it to my husband so he can, in turn, show it to his doctor so that George's liver can be checked for damage.