Sarah-Yan Chagnon · 5 years ago
In fact, the risk with Voltaren gel is that even if it is applied to the skin, it can have absorption into the bloodstream of the drug. So, since it is an anti-inflammatory, if it is combined with the blood-thinning Coumadin, it increases the risk of bleeding. The absorption of Voltaren gel into the bloodstream obviously depends on the duration of application and the surface area, so since we are only covering one shoulder, the regular Voltaren gel (not the extra-strength) could be used for a short period of less than 7 days. Care should be taken not to apply heat up to one hour after the Voltaren so as not to increase its absorption. Also, Voltaren gel does not interact with cortisone tablets or injections. Note that the safest topical medication to use with Coumadin is menthol gel (example: Deep Cold). I invite you to consult your pharmacist who will be able to show you how to apply all these products and have a better overview of your complete medication file.