Voltarol 50mg Gastro-Resistant Tablets: Uses & Safety
Quick summary: Voltarol 50mg gastro-resistant tablets are a prescription NSAID used for pain and inflammation. The gastro-resistant coating helps the tablet pass through the stomach before releasing the medicine in the intestine. This page...
This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.
Quick summary: Voltarol 50mg gastro-resistant tablets are a prescription NSAID used for pain and inflammation. The gastro-resistant coating helps the tablet pass through the stomach before releasing the medicine in the intestine.
This page explains common uses, general dosing ranges mentioned in the source content, and important safety points to check with a doctor, pharmacist, or the official patient leaflet.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use it to diagnose a condition, and do not change how you take any medicine without speaking to your doctor or pharmacist.
What are Voltarol 50mg gastro-resistant tablets?
Voltarol 50mg gastro-resistant tablets contain diclofenac potassium, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). They are used to help relieve pain and inflammation.
The tablets are described as gastro-resistant, which means they are designed to release the medicine after passing through the stomach. This can help reduce stomach irritation compared with some standard tablets.
Voltarol 50mg is a prescription-only medicine, so it should be used under medical supervision.
What conditions are treated with Voltarol 50mg gastro-resistant tablets?
Based on the source content, Voltarol 50mg gastro-resistant tablets are used for pain and inflammation linked to:
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoarthritis
- Low back pain
- Migraine attacks
These tablets may be prescribed when a clinician decides that an NSAID is appropriate for symptom relief.
How is the dose usually described?
The source content states that adult doses are typically in the range of 75mg to 150mg daily, divided into two or three doses.
However, the right dose depends on the condition being treated and the individual prescription. Always follow the directions on your prescription label and the patient leaflet, and ask a pharmacist or doctor if anything is unclear.
| Topic | What the source content says |
|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Diclofenac potassium |
| Main use | Pain relief and inflammation |
| Typical adult range mentioned | 75mg to 150mg daily in divided doses |
| Legal status | Prescription-only medicine |
Special considerations before use
The source content highlights several situations where extra caution is needed:
- Older adults: may need lower doses because side effects can be more likely.
- Heart disease: people with a history of cardiovascular disease should use caution.
- Kidney problems: kidney impairment should be discussed with a doctor first.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: a healthcare professional should assess the risks before use.
If you are unsure whether this medicine is suitable, check with a pharmacist or doctor and read the latest leaflet.
When should Voltarol 50mg not be used?
The source content lists the following contraindications:
- Allergy to diclofenac or other NSAIDs
- Severe heart failure or significant cardiovascular disease
- Active or previous gastrointestinal bleeding or peptic ulcers
- Severe liver or kidney impairment
These are important safety points to review before taking the medicine.
What should you check in the patient information leaflet?
The patient information leaflet (PIL) usually includes practical details such as:
- How to take the tablets
- Possible side effects
- Storage instructions
- Who to contact if you have questions or concerns
It is sensible to compare the leaflet in the pack with the latest official version, as information can be updated.
Frequently asked questions
▸ How many 50 mg Voltarol tablets can I take?
The source content says the usual adult range is 75mg to 150mg daily in divided doses. The exact number of tablets depends on the prescription you were given.
▸ What is Voltarol 50 mg used for?
It is used for pain and inflammation, including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, low back pain, and migraine attacks.
▸ What does gastro-resistant mean?
It means the tablet is designed to pass through the stomach before releasing the medicine, which may help reduce stomach irritation.
▸ Is Voltarol 50mg prescription only?
Yes. The source content describes it as a prescription-only medicine.
▸ Who should be extra careful with this medicine?
Older adults, people with heart disease, kidney problems, or a history of stomach bleeding or ulcers should discuss use with a healthcare professional.
Safety reminder
Before taking any NSAID, make sure you understand the instructions on your prescription and the patient leaflet. If you have a medical condition, take other medicines, or are unsure whether this tablet is appropriate, speak to a doctor or pharmacist.
Seek urgent medical help if you think you are having a serious reaction or if you are worried about symptoms after taking the medicine.
Medical disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always ask a doctor, pharmacist or qualified healthcare professional before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.
Sources and verification
The following sources or official references are listed to support verification of the medicine information discussed in this article.
- NHS: Diclofenac
- Electronic Medicines Compendium: Voltarol tablets PIL
- NHS: NSAIDs overview
- British National Formulary (BNF)
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Medicine information can change and may vary depending on country, product formulation, patient history and professional guidance. Always check official medicine information and ask a healthcare professional for personal medical questions.