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Voltaren vs. Relafen

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Diclofenac (Voltaren) and nabumetone (Relafen) are both prescription NSAIDs used to treat pain and inflammation, but they have some key differences. Diclofenac is available in various formulations, including tablets, capsules, and powder, and is used for a wider range of conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, migraines, and menstrual cramps. Nabumetone, on the other hand, is typically used for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis and can be taken once a day, which can be more convenient. Both medications have a risk of serious side effects like heart attack, stroke, and stomach bleeds, especially with long-term use. Neither medication is recommended during pregnancy, especially in the later stages, and should not be combined with other NSAIDs. Both medications are available in generic forms, making them potentially more affordable options.

Diclofenac

 

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Nabumetone

 

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Summary for Voltaren

Prescription only

Diclofenac is a prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works well to treat pain and swelling in certain conditions, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and menstrual cramps. Diclofenac comes in different formulations, including delayed-release tablet and powder packet for oral solution. Similar to other NSAIDs, it has warnings for serious side effects, such as stroke, heart attack, and stomach bleeds, especially with higher doses and longer use.

Indications for Voltaren

  • Mild to moderate pain
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Ankylosing spondylitis (arthritis of the spine)
  • Migraine attacks
  • Menstrual cramps

Pros and Cons for Voltaren

Pros

  • Available in many different formulations, such as tablet, capsule, and powder
  • Available in a long-acting form that only needs to be take once per day
  • Diclofenac potassium (Cambia) powder can help with migraine pain in as quickly as 15 minutes.
  • All brands of diclofenac are available as lower-cost generics.

Cons

  • Typically have to take multiple times a day (except for the powder and extended-release tablet)
  • Not recommended for use in children (except for diclofenac potassium (Zipsor) capsules, which can be used in children age 12 years and older)
  • Not recommended for use in pregnancy, especially starting in the second trimester or later
  • Not the best option if you're 65 years or older, or have kidney, heart, liver, or bleeding problems

Common Side Effects for Voltaren

Up to 10% of people taking diclofenac experience:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Ringing in the ear
  • Swelling in the arms and legs
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Heartburn
  • Stomach bleeds, ulcers, and damage
  • Passing gas
  • Stomach pains
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Rash
  • Dry and itchy skin
  • Anemia
  • Bleeding that's hard to stop

Warnings for Voltaren

  • Heart attack and stroke
  • Stomach bleeding and ulcers
  • Liver damage
  • High blood pressure, heart failure, and swelling of your arms and legs
  • Kidney damage and high potassium levels
  • Severe asthma attack
  • Severe allergic or skin reaction
  • Harm to unborn babies

Summary for Relafen

Prescription only

Nabumetone is a prescription nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works to help relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis in adults. This can include pain, swelling, and stiffness in your joints. Nabumetone is a tablet that you take by mouth typically once per day. The dosage can be adjusted based on how well the medication is working for you. Side effects can include diarrhea and upset stomach.

Indications for Relafen

Pros and Cons for Relafen

Pros

Cons

  • Requires a prescription from a healthcare professional
  • Has many risks, including heart issues, stomach bleeding, and kidney problems
  • Not recommended for people with severe heart failure or kidney problems

Common Side Effects for Relafen

  • Diarrhea (14%)
  • Indigestion (13%)
  • Stomach pain (12%)
  • Constipation (up to 9%)
  • Gas (up to 9%)
  • Nausea (up to 9%)
  • Dizziness (up to 9%)
  • Headache (up to 9%)
  • Itching (up to 9%)
  • Rash (up to 9%)
  • Ringing in the ears (up to 9%)
  • Swelling (up to 9%)

Warnings for Relafen

  • Risk of stomach ulcers and stomach bleeding
  • Risk of heart attack and stroke
  • High blood pressure
  • Swelling and risk of heart failure
  • Kidney damage
  • Liver problems
  • Risk of general bleeding and anemia
  • Severe allergic reactions and skin reactions
  • Not safe to take while pregnant

Prices with our coupons for Voltaren vs. Relafen

Price Card Drug Icon
Diclofenac Sodium60 tablets / 75mg
$14.38$20.85
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Price Card Drug Icon
Nabumetone60 tablets / 500mg
$18.83$49.79
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