Can You Crush Voltaren Tablets?

Answer

Hello, and thanks for reaching out! No, unfortunately, Voltaren (diclofenac sodium) tablets cannot be crushed as doing so will ruin the modified release properties of the tablets.

Voltaren is actually available as an oral tablet in two different forms, Voltaren XR (diclofenac sodium extended-release) and Voltaren Delayed-Release (diclofenac sodium delayed-release).

The extended-release tablets have a mechanism to slowly release the drug over time, extending its duration of action, while the delayed-release tablets delay the release of the drug until the tablets pass through the stomach and into the intestine. This is purported to make the drug better tolerated in terms of side effects.

As mentioned, you cannot crush either form of Voltaren without ruining the modified release properties of the drug.

I also want to point out that diclofenac, the active drug in Voltaren, comes in multiple different forms, including 'diclofenac potassium', which is generic for Cataflam. This also cannot be crushed as the tablets are 'film-coated'.

There are a number of diclofenac products in capsule form too, just for your information, but they are far more expensive than the tablets.

Does Voltaren Come As A Liquid?

Getting to the other part of your question, while Voltaren (diclofenac sodium) doesn't come as a liquid, a different form of diclofenac (diclofenac sodium) is available as a 'powder for solution'. It is generic for a drug called Cambia.

The drug comes in 50mg packets, which you dissolve in one to two ounces of water. Below is an image of the packaging for Cambia:

It should be noted though that Cambia (and the associated generic) is intended for use as a treatment for migraines, and comes in boxes of 9 packets. It may be challenging to get your insurance to pay for a higher quantity.

Lastly, to avoid confusion if you're Googling around looking for liquid products, I want to point out that diclofenac is available as a liquid solution, but it is only for topical use (generic for Pennsaid).

Final Words

Thanks again for your question and I hope you found this helpful.

Please reach back out anytime!