What Happens If You Use Too Much Voltaren Gel?

October 7, 2025 •

4 min read

While topical Voltaren gel is designed for local pain relief, a surprising number of people assume applying more will lead to faster or better results. Using too much Voltaren gel, however, significantly increases the risk of systemic side effects, some of which can be life-threatening. Even though it's applied to the skin, its active ingredient, diclofenac, can still be absorbed into the bloodstream in sufficient quantities to cause harm.

Quick Summary

Overusing Voltaren gel increases the risk of serious systemic side effects, including gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney damage, and cardiovascular issues. Always adhere to the recommended usage guidelines to avoid potential diclofenac risks.

Key Points

Systemic Risks: Overusing Voltaren gel increases systemic absorption of diclofenac, raising the risk of severe side effects typically associated with oral NSAIDs.
Overdose Symptoms: Excessive application can lead to an overdose, with symptoms including nausea, dizziness, stomach pain, bloody vomit or stools, and potential seizures or coma in severe cases.
Follow Usage Guidelines: Adhere strictly to the recommended usage, using any provided tools, to ensure the gel remains effective and its absorption stays within safe limits.
Watch for Warnings: Be aware of serious health warnings related to diclofenac, including increased risk of GI bleeding, heart attack, and stroke, which are amplified by overuse.
Seek Immediate Help: If overdose symptoms occur, call 911 or a poison control center immediately. Never attempt to manage a severe reaction on your own.
Avoid Combined Use: Do not use Voltaren gel with other oral or topical NSAIDs unless instructed by a healthcare provider, as this drastically increases your risk of side effects.

Understanding the Mechanism: How Voltaren Gel Works

Voltaren (diclofenac) gel is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which are responsible for producing prostaglandins. Prostaglandins play a key role in mediating pain and inflammation in the body. When applied topically, the gel delivers the diclofenac directly to the site of pain, allowing for concentrated relief with less systemic absorption than oral NSAIDs. However, this is only true when used as directed. Applying excessive amounts or using it for extended periods can lead to higher absorption rates, causing systemic adverse effects that are more commonly associated with oral forms of the medication.

Risks of Applying Too Much Voltaren Gel

Unlike an over-the-counter cream for simple skin issues, Voltaren gel is a potent medication. Ignoring the usage instructions and applying more than recommended significantly increases the likelihood and severity of adverse reactions. The potential complications range from local skin irritation to life-threatening internal issues.

Gastrointestinal Risks

Excessive use of Voltaren gel can increase the risk of serious gastrointestinal (GI) problems. The diclofenac absorbed into the bloodstream can interfere with the protective lining of the stomach and intestines, leading to ulcers, bleeding, and even perforation. A prior history of GI bleeding or peptic ulcer disease places individuals at a much higher risk. Symptoms to watch for include black or tarry stools, abdominal pain, and vomiting that resembles coffee grounds.

Cardiovascular Risks

Like oral NSAIDs, diclofenac gel carries a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) boxed warning regarding the increased risk of cardiovascular thrombotic events, including heart attack and stroke. This risk can occur early in treatment and is higher with prolonged use and higher amounts. People with pre-existing heart conditions are particularly vulnerable.

Renal Risks

NSAIDs can negatively impact kidney function by reducing blood flow to the kidneys. Overusing Voltaren gel can cause or worsen kidney issues, especially in those with pre-existing kidney or heart problems, dehydration, or those taking diuretics. Symptoms of potential kidney damage include swelling in the ankles and legs, decreased urination, and confusion.

Overdose Symptoms and What to Do

If you have used too much Voltaren gel, you may experience a range of symptoms depending on the amount and absorption rate. Overdose symptoms, while more commonly associated with oral forms, can still occur with excessive topical use.

Symptoms of a Voltaren overdose may include:

Nausea and vomiting (potentially bloody)
Diarrhea or black, tarry stools
Dizziness and drowsiness
Stomach pain or indigestion
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
Blurred vision
Edema (swelling, particularly in the legs)
High or low blood pressure
Chest pain or increased heart rate
Trouble breathing
Confusion, agitation, or headache
In severe cases, seizures or coma

If you experience any of these symptoms after using excessive amounts of Voltaren, seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or a poison control center.

How to Use Voltaren Gel Correctly

To minimize risks and maximize benefits, it is crucial to follow the recommended usage and application guidelines precisely. For the 1% concentration (OTC Voltaren Arthritis Pain), a dosing card is provided to help with appropriate application amounts.

Guidelines for Safe Use:

Measure Accurately: Use the guidance provided with the product. The recommended amount varies depending on the joint being treated.
Frequency: Apply the gel as directed, but do not use it on more than two body areas at the same time.
Avoid Damaged Skin: Never apply the gel to open wounds, infected skin, cuts, or rashes.
Wash Hands: Always wash your hands immediately after applying the gel unless your hands are the treatment site.
Avoid Other NSAIDs: Do not use Voltaren gel in combination with oral NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) unless specifically instructed by a doctor, as this significantly increases the risk of side effects.
Limit Sun Exposure: Minimize or avoid exposure to natural or artificial sunlight on treated areas, as diclofenac can increase skin sensitivity.

Comparison of Common Side Effects: Topical vs. Oral NSAIDs

The table below outlines the general differences in side effect profiles between properly used topical Voltaren gel and oral diclofenac, highlighting why overuse can shift the risk profile towards the more severe, systemic side effects associated with oral NSAIDs.


Side Effect Category	Proper Topical Voltaren Gel Use	Oral Diclofenac (or Overused Topical)
Gastrointestinal	Low risk; potential for mild stomach upset or diarrhea.	High risk; potential for serious ulcers, bleeding, and perforation.
Cardiovascular	Lower risk compared to oral forms, but still carries a boxed warning.	Higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and increased blood pressure.
Renal	Lower risk of kidney damage for individuals with healthy kidneys.	Higher risk of kidney damage, especially for those with pre-existing conditions.
Application Site	Most common side effects: skin irritation, dryness, itching, and rash.	No application site side effects.
Systemic Absorption	Minimal absorption into the bloodstream when used correctly.	High absorption, leading to systemic effects throughout the body.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety Over Speed

Voltaren gel is an effective treatment for local pain and inflammation when used as directed. The belief that applying more product will lead to better or faster results is a dangerous misconception. Overusing Voltaren gel can cause the drug to be absorbed in higher concentrations, shifting the risk profile from mild, localized irritation to severe, systemic complications affecting the GI tract, cardiovascular system, and kidneys. By strictly following the usage instructions, using any provided measuring tools, and being mindful of risk factors, users can safely manage their pain while avoiding the serious and potentially fatal consequences of misuse. If you have any concerns about usage or potential overdose, do not hesitate to contact a healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Using more than the recommended amount per application, applying it more frequently than directed, or using it on more than the advised number of body areas constitutes overuse. It's important not to exceed the maximum daily amount specified by healthcare professionals or product instructions.

Yes, excessive use increases the risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, including heart attack and stroke. This risk can start early in treatment, especially with higher amounts or prolonged use.

Signs of gastrointestinal bleeding include black, tarry stools, abdominal pain, dizziness, fatigue, and vomiting that looks like coffee grounds. These symptoms require immediate medical attention.

No, it is not recommended to use Voltaren gel with other oral or topical NSAIDs unless specifically advised by a healthcare provider. Combining them significantly increases the risk of serious side effects.

A large overdose, including ingestion by a child, can be very harmful. Symptoms may include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. Call a poison control center immediately if a child has ingested the gel.

Side effects, both minor skin reactions and more serious systemic issues, can occur relatively quickly, sometimes within the first few weeks of starting treatment, especially with overuse. Consult with a healthcare provider if you experience concerning symptoms.

The product includes instructions and potentially a measuring tool to help you apply the correct amount. You should apply a measured amount to the affected area, rub it in, and then wash your hands. The amount varies for different joints.