Generic Voltaren SR (Diclofenac)

Introduction

Voltaren SR is an oral sustained-release tablet that contains the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) diclofenac. Each tablet delivers 100 mg of diclofenac over an extended period, providing pain relief and reduction of inflammation for several hours after a single dose. The product belongs to the class of cyclo-oxygenase (COX)-inhibiting NSAIDs and is marketed for the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and acute musculoskeletal pain. In some regions clinicians also consider it for postoperative pain or dysmenorrhea, although these uses are not formally approved by regulatory agencies.

What is Voltaren SR?

Voltaren SR is the sustained-release formulation of diclofenac, a well-established NSAID. It is produced by various pharmaceutical companies under the Voltaren brand; the “SR” suffix indicates that the tablet releases the active ingredient gradually, allowing once-daily dosing for many indications.

Diclofenac is the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) responsible for the drug’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. It is the generic version of several well-known diclofenac products, marketed under brand names such as Voltaren, Cataflam, Flector, and Zorvolex. Our online pharmacy provides this generic alternative as a cost-effective treatment option.

How Voltaren SR Works

Diclofenac inhibits the cyclo-oxygenase enzymes COX-1 and COX-2. These enzymes catalyze the conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandins, which are mediators of pain, fever, and inflammation. By reducing prostaglandin synthesis, diclofenac diminishes the inflammatory response in tissues and lowers the perception of pain.

In the sustained-release tablet, the drug is embedded in a matrix that dissolves slowly in the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations generally occur 4-6 hours after ingestion, and therapeutic levels are maintained for up to 12 hours. The drug is metabolized mainly by hepatic cytochrome P450 2C9 and eliminated through the kidneys.

Conditions Treated with Voltaren SR

• Osteoarthritis (OA): Diclofenac reduces joint inflammation and pain, improving function and mobility.
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): The COX inhibition lessens synovial inflammation, helping control chronic joint pain.
• Acute musculoskeletal pain: Injuries such as sprains, strains, and low-back pain respond to the anti-inflammatory action of diclofenac, providing rapid pain relief.

These indications are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for oral diclofenac formulations of comparable strength.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Voltaren SR

• Dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain): Small clinical studies have shown that diclofenac can relieve primary dysmenorrhea, though the indication is not formally approved.
• Post-operative analgesia: Some surgeons prescribe oral diclofenac for postoperative pain control, citing its opioid-sparing effect. Evidence from randomized trials supports reduced opioid consumption, but regulatory approval for this use is lacking.

Important: Off-label use should only be undertaken under direct supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. The safety and efficacy of these applications have not been formally evaluated by regulatory agencies.

Is Voltaren SR the Right Medication for You?

Voltaren SR is appropriate for adult patients (≥18 years) with diagnosed osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or acute musculoskeletal pain who require daily NSAID therapy. It is especially useful when once-daily dosing is preferred for adherence.

Contraindications include:

• Known hypersensitivity to diclofenac or other NSAIDs.
• Active gastrointestinal ulcer or bleeding.
• Severe hepatic or renal impairment.
• Third-trimester pregnancy.
• Use in patients with a history of coronary artery disease or stroke without cardiology guidance.

Patients with these conditions should consider alternative analgesics.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Gastro-intestinal discomfort (dyspepsia, nausea)
• Headache
• Dizziness

Rare

• Elevated liver enzymes (transaminases)
• Peripheral edema

Serious

• Gastro-intestinal ulceration or bleeding
• Myocardial infarction or stroke (especially with long-term use)
• Severe hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
• Acute renal failure

Drug-Drug Interactions

• Anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin): Increased bleeding risk.
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): Heightened gastrointestinal bleeding.
• ACE inhibitors or ARBs: May reduce renal perfusion, increasing risk of renal insufficiency.
• Lithium: NSAIDs can raise lithium serum levels, leading to toxicity.

Drug-Food Interactions

• Alcohol can exacerbate gastrointestinal irritation and increase bleeding risk.
• High-fat meals may delay absorption but do not affect overall exposure.

Patients should disclose all concurrent medications and supplements to their prescriber.

Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard dosing: 100 mg Voltaren SR taken once daily with a full glass of water. The tablet should be swallowed whole; crushing or chewing defeats the sustained-release mechanism.
• Missed dose: If a dose is missed and the scheduled time is more than 12 hours away, take the missed tablet as soon as remembered. Do not double-dose to compensate.
• Overdose: Symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and dizziness. Immediate medical attention is required; activated charcoal may be administered in a hospital setting.

Practical precautions

• Take the tablet with food or a milky drink to minimize gastric irritation.
• Avoid alcohol while using Voltaren SR.
• Do not operate machinery or drive if dizziness occurs.

FAQ

• What should I do if I experience heartburn while taking Voltaren SR? Take the medication with a substantial meal or a snack, and consider using an antacid that does not contain magnesium or aluminum if recommended by a pharmacist. Persistent heartburn warrants medical review.

• Can I travel internationally with Voltaren SR tablets? Yes, provided the medication is in its original packaging with a copy of the prescription or a legitimate import declaration where required. Check destination country regulations before departure.

• How long does a Voltaren SR tablet stay effective after it is removed from its blister pack? The sustained-release matrix remains stable for several weeks if stored in a dry, cool environment. Exposure to moisture or extreme heat can degrade the release profile.

• Are there any inactive ingredients that might cause an allergic reaction? Common excipients include microcrystalline cellulose, lactose monohydrate, and magnesium stearate. Patients with known lactose intolerance or hypersensitivity to these substances should verify the specific formulation used by the supplier.

• Is Voltaren SR suitable for people with asthma? NSAIDs can trigger bronchospasm in aspirin-sensitive asthmatics. If you have a known NSAID-exacerbated respiratory disease, discuss alternative pain management strategies with your clinician.

• Does the sustained-release formulation affect laboratory tests? Diclofenac may slightly elevate liver function tests (ALT, AST). Routine monitoring is advisable for long-term users, especially if other hepatotoxic drugs are taken concurrently.

• Can I store Voltaren SR tablets in a bathroom cabinet? It is best to keep the tablets in a dry, temperature-controlled place away from moisture and direct sunlight; a bathroom may experience humidity that could compromise tablet integrity.

• What is the difference between Voltaren SR and immediate-release diclofenac tablets? Immediate-release tablets deliver the full dose within minutes, requiring multiple daily doses for sustained effect. Voltaren SR releases the drug gradually, allowing once-daily dosing and potentially improving adherence.

• Will taking Voltaren SR increase my risk of heart attack? All NSAIDs, including diclofenac, carry a dose-related cardiovascular risk. Short-term use at the lowest effective dose is recommended, and patients with existing cardiovascular disease should discuss risk mitigation with a healthcare professional.

• Is it safe to combine Voltaren SR with over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics? Concurrent use of other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) is contraindicated due to additive toxicity. Acetaminophen can be combined for additional analgesia, but total daily dosing limits must be observed.

Glossary

Cyclo-oxygenase (COX)

An enzyme family (COX-1 and COX-2) that converts arachidonic acid into prostaglandins, which mediate inflammation, pain, and fever.

Sustained-release (SR) formulation

A dosage form designed to release the active ingredient slowly over an extended period, reducing dosing frequency.

Prostaglandin

Lipid compounds that act locally to promote inflammation, fever, and pain; they are synthesized by COX enzymes.

Therapeutic window

The range of drug concentrations in the blood that provides efficacy without causing unacceptable side effects.

Buying Voltaren SR from Our Online Pharmacy

Patients who need reliable, affordable access to generic diclofenac can obtain Voltaren SR through our online pharmacy. We source the medication from licensed, GMP-certified manufacturers, ensuring that each tablet meets strict quality standards.

• Cost-effective pricing: Our supply chain eliminates middle-man mark-ups, offering prices close to the manufacturer’s wholesale rates.
• Verified quality: All batches are tested for potency, purity, and dissolution profile before shipment.
• Discreet delivery: Packages are sealed in unbranded, tamper-evident envelopes and shipped via trusted couriers. Standard shipping typically arrives within 7 days for express service or 3 weeks for regular airmail, depending on the destination.
• International accessibility: We act as a pharmacy-broker service, partnering with overseas licensed pharmacies to make medications that may be unavailable locally. This model preserves patient privacy while expanding treatment options.

Choosing our online pharmacy provides a secure, convenient pathway to obtain Voltaren SR when conventional pharmacies cannot meet your needs.

Disclaimer

The information presented about Voltaren SR is intended for general educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Treatment decisions, including any off-label considerations, should be made under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. Readers are presumed to be responsible adults capable of making informed health choices. Our online pharmacy offers access to Voltaren SR for individuals who may encounter limited availability through traditional pharmacies or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult a qualified clinician before initiating, altering, or discontinuing any medication.