Diclofenac diethylamine (topical) 1.16% w/w: uses, price & cheaper substitutes
Common uses: Joint pain from osteoarthritis of the knee, hand, wrist, ankle or elbow; Sprains, strains and sports injuries.
Listed MRPs range from ₹0.64 to ₹6.02 per g across 6 listings.
Price comparison
| Brand | Manufacturer | Pack | MRP | ₹ / g | As on |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diclofenac Gel IP 1.16%w/w (Diclofenac Diethylamine)Jan Aushadhi | Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP) | 15 g | ₹11.25 | ₹0.75 | 19 October 2026 |
| Diclomac Gel | Torque Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd | 25 g | ₹16.05 | ₹0.64 | 19 October 2026 |
| Naclo Gel | Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd | 30 g | ₹65.63 | ₹2.19 | 19 October 2026 |
| Diclonac Gel | Lupin Ltd | 30 g | ₹102.19 | ₹3.41 | 19 October 2026 |
| Jonac Gel | Zydus Cadila | 30 g | ₹114.00 | ₹3.80 | 19 October 2026 |
| Voveran Emulgel | Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd | 50 g | ₹301.17 | ₹6.02 | 19 October 2026 |
MRPs as printed/listed on the date shown; actual price may vary.
Uses
- Joint pain from osteoarthritis of the knee, hand, wrist, ankle or elbow.
- Sprains, strains and sports injuries.
- Muscle pain and back pain from overuse or minor injury.
- Localised swelling and bruising after a soft-tissue injury.
How to take it
Apply a thin layer of gel to clean, dry, unbroken skin over the painful area and rub it in gently, usually 3 to 4 times a day. Wash your hands afterwards unless the hands are the area being treated. Do not cover the area with a tight bandage, apply heat, or bathe for about an hour after applying. Keep it away from eyes, mouth, cuts and rashes. Use it for up to 2 weeks for injuries or 3 weeks for arthritis; if the pain has not improved in 7 days, see a doctor. Because some diclofenac is absorbed through the skin, do not use it on large areas for long periods, and do not use it together with diclofenac tablets without medical advice.
Side effects
Common
- Mild redness, itching, dryness or rash where it is applied.
- Burning or stinging on application.
- Skin becoming more sensitive to sunlight at the treated area.
Serious
Stop and get medical help urgently if you notice any of these.
- Severe allergic reaction – hives, swelling of the face, wheezing.
- Blistering or peeling skin.
- Stomach pain, black stools or breathlessness after using large amounts for long periods (whole-body NSAID effects).
Safety information
Alcohol
No direct interaction with the gel. Alcohol is not a problem at normal topical doses.
Pregnancy
Avoid in the last 3 months of pregnancy and use only on a doctor's advice earlier; small amounts are absorbed. Avoid applying near the breast if breastfeeding.
Kidney problems
Very little reaches the kidneys when used on small areas, but avoid long-term use over large areas if you have kidney disease.
Liver problems
Safe for short-term use on small areas; ask your doctor if you have liver disease and need it for weeks.
Children
Not recommended for children under 14 unless a doctor advises.
Missed dose
Apply it when you remember, then continue as usual. Do not apply extra to make up.
Interactions
- Diclofenac, ibuprofen or aspirin tablets – using both raises the overall NSAID dose; ask your doctor before combining.
- Blood thinners (warfarin) – small added bleeding risk if used over large areas for long.
- Other creams, sunscreens or mosquito repellents on the same spot – apply at different times.
- Methotrexate, lithium, ciclosporin – a theoretical interaction with heavy use; tell your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
How many times a day can I apply Voveran Emulgel?
Usually 3 to 4 times a day, rubbing a thin layer into the painful area. Wash your hands afterwards and do not apply to broken skin.
Can I use Voveran Emulgel and Voveran tablets together?
Not without a doctor's advice. The gel adds to the total diclofenac in your body, and combining both increases the risk of stomach and kidney side effects.
Is Voveran Emulgel safe in pregnancy?
Avoid it in the last three months of pregnancy, when NSAIDs can affect the baby's heart and kidneys. Earlier in pregnancy, use it only if your doctor agrees, on a small area for a short time.
Jonac Gel vs Voveran Emulgel – what is the difference?
Both contain diclofenac diethylamine gel for topical pain relief and are used the same way. Differences are mainly in the gel base, tube size and price.
Can I use diclofenac gel on my back for a slipped disc?
It can ease muscle pain over the painful area but does not treat nerve compression. If you have leg numbness, weakness or pain lasting more than a week, see a doctor.
Can I apply diclofenac gel on a bandaged or hot-fomented area?
No. Do not cover the area with a tight dressing or apply a hot-water bag after the gel; this increases absorption and skin irritation.
Does Voveran Emulgel need a prescription?
No. Diclofenac gel is sold over the counter at Indian chemists. Still, see a doctor if the pain is not better after a week.
Can I use diclofenac gel in children?
It is not recommended for children under 14 unless a doctor advises. For a child's sprain, ask your doctor about safer options.
Sources
- MedlinePlus – Diclofenac Topical (19 October 2026)
- NHS – Diclofenac (19 October 2026)
- NPPA Pharma Sahi Daam (ceiling prices) (19 October 2026)
- PMBI Jan Aushadhi Product & MRP List (19 October 2026)
Medyzen Editorial Team · Last updated
This page is general information, not medical advice. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without asking a doctor or pharmacist. Terms