Key takeaways
- Topical over-the-counter (OTC) products such as diclofenac sodium (Voltaren Arthritis Pain) may be safe for everyday arthritis use.
- Topical products target joints directly and carry a lower risk of systemic side effects.
- It may also be safe to take acetaminophen (Tylenol) daily to help relieve arthritis pain.
With arthritis, you may experience pain, swelling, or stiffness in certain joints. Prescription medications can help, but your doctor may also recommend OTC options.
Learn more about which OTC products are safe to use every day for arthritis.
Topical OTC products can be safe for everyday use for arthritis because they target the joints directly. With topical products, most side effects occur at the site of application. This means there is a lower risk of more severe systemic side effects.
See the table below for a few examples of topical OTC products that may be used for arthritis.
| Drug class | What they do | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) | reduce inflammation | diclofenac sodium (Voltaren Arthritis Pain) |
| counterirritants | block pain signals through hot and cold sensations | • menthol (Biofreeze) • menthol/methyl salicylate (Icy Hot) • camphor/menthol/methyl salicylate (Bengay) |
| topical analgestic | numb nerve endings at the joint to dull pain | lidocaine (Salonpas) |
| salicylates | reduce inflammation | trolamine salicylate (Aspercreme) |
Medical Perspective“It’s may be best to start with one topical product first. If that product doesn’t work then switch to another. If you need more than one topical product talk with your doctor for the best next steps.”
— Kristina D. Carter, PharmD, MBA, MHA
Read more: The best topical pain relief products.
Quotes represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.
The safest oral OTC option for arthritis is acetaminophen (Tylenol). It helps treat pain associated with arthritis, but it does not reduce inflammation. Acetaminophen is generally well-tolerated, but it may not be right for people with liver problems.
Planning time: Because oral pain relievers, including acetaminophen, can interact with other medications, it is important to talk with your doctor or pharmacist before starting any OTC drugs.
Use with cautionOral OTC NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve), can help reduce swelling and inflammation seen with arthritis. But, long-term use of these medications can increase the risk of stomach bleeding and kidney problems.
They may be safe for short-term use or at lower doses. Your doctor can recommend the safest OTC option and dose to help manage your arthritis symptoms.
Sometimes your doctor may recommend OTC products for your arthritis symptoms. These may include topical products, such as Voltaren Arthritis Pain topical gel, or oral products, such as Tylenol. Discuss the benefits and risks of these products with your doctor.
Disclaimer: While Healthline strives for factual, comprehensive, and current information, this article is not a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional’s expertise. Always consult a doctor before taking or discontinuing any medication. Drug information is subject to change and may not cover all uses, directions, precautions, warnings, interactions, reactions, or adverse effects. The lack of a warning does not guarantee a drug’s safety, effectiveness, or appropriateness for all patients or specific uses. Learn more about our approach to content integrity.
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