Compare Lidoderm vs. Voltaren gel
Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Lidoderm (lidocaine) and Voltaren gel (diclofenac) are both used to relieve pain, but they work in different ways and are used for different types of pain. Lidoderm is a local anesthetic patch that numbs the nerves to reduce pain, and it is available in both prescription and over-the-counter forms. It is mainly used for nerve pain, such as pain from shingles. On the other hand, Voltaren gel is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces pain and swelling by blocking certain chemicals in the body. It is used to treat pain from osteoarthritis in joints like the knees, hands, and wrists. While Lidoderm can be used for temporary relief of minor pain, Voltaren gel is specifically for arthritis pain and is not recommended for use on the back or hips. Both medications have generic forms. Voltaren gel is available over-the-counter, whereas certain strengths of Lidoderm require a prescription. Both medications can cause skin irritation, but Voltaren gel also carries risks of serious side effects like heart attack and stroke due to its NSAID properties.
- Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)Diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel)
- Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)Diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel)
Summary of Lidoderm vs. Voltaren gel
Summary for Local anestheticPrescription onlyLidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm) is a prescription medication used to relieve nerve pain caused by a shingles infection, also called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). It's a local anesthetic that works by numbing your nerves to help reduce pain. You apply the patch directly to the painful area of your skin once a day, and it can be worn for up to 12 hours in a 24-hour period. Common side effects include temporary skin irritation, redness, and a mild burning sensation where the patch is applied.
Summary for NSAIDDiclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel) and diclofenac sodium topical solution (Pennsaid) can help ease arthritis pain from osteoarthritis. They're applied to the skin of the affected joints, typically 2-4 times daily, depending on which topical product you use. Some common side effects of topical diclofenac include dry skin, redness, and itching. Because diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), these topical products can also raise the risk for NSAID-related side effects, such as blood clots and high blood pressure. While the diclofenac sodium topical solutions are only available by prescription, you can get diclofenac sodium 1% topical gel over-the-counter or by prescription.
Indications of Lidoderm vs. Voltaren gel
Indications for•Nerve pain caused by shingles (postherpetic neuralgia)Indications for•Pain from osteoarthritis of the knees - topical solutions and 1% gel•Pain from osteoarthritis of small joints, such as hands and wrists - 1% gel onlyPros and Cons of Lidoderm vs. Voltaren gel
Pros and Const for Local anestheticPros•Works directly on the skin•Generally well-tolerated with few side effects•Can cut patches to fit the area of painCons•Commonly causes skin irritation•Must avoid contact with water wearing the patch•Might interact with many medicationsPros and Const for NSAIDPros•Available as a less expensive generic medication•Diclofenac sodium topical gel (Voltaren gel) 1% gel is available over the counter without a prescription•Less serious side effects compared to oral diclofenac•Can target specific areas of osteoarthritis painCons•Can cause skin irritation•Can't be used for pain in other places, such as back or hip•Can be inconvenient to use because you need to wait for the medication to dry before putting on clothing•Not recommended for use during pregnancyCommon Side Effects of Lidoderm vs. Voltaren gel
Common Side Effects for•Blisters•Bruising•Burning sensation•Changes in skin color•Rash or redness•Swelling•Peeling or flaking skin•Itching•Small bumps or spots•Tiny red or purple dots under the skin•Tingling or numbness in the areaCommon Side Effects for1% gel
•Redness, rash, itchiness of the skin (contact dermatitis, 4%)1.5% and 2% solution
Warnings of Lidoderm vs. Voltaren gel
Common Side Effects for•Blood problem (methemoglobinemia)•Absorbing too much medication•Accidental poisoning in children or petsCommon Side Effects for•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 babiesPrices with our coupons for Lidoderm vs. Voltaren gel
Compare other Pain and Eye Inflammation drugs
Browse medications
View AllResearch prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.