Gel and ointment

An anti-inflammatory gel or ointment is a topical medicine formulated to act directly on a painful or inflamed area. Depending on the product, it may contain active ingredients belonging to the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as diclofenac, ibuprofen or etofenamate.

Their localised application allows certain muscle and joint ailments to be treated without initially having to resort to oral forms of medication, provided the topical medicine is suitable. However, each active ingredient has specific indications, dosages, contraindications and age restrictions for use, so it is essential to consult the patient information leaflet.

Topical anti-inflammatory medicines may be indicated for the symptomatic and localised relief of mild pain and inflammation. The specific indication always depends on the medicine chosen.

• They help to relieve certain types of muscle discomfort.
• They help to reduce localised pain associated with minor injuries.
• They can be used for some cases of muscle and joint strain.
• There are options suitable for minor bruises and sprains.
• They allow the medicine to be applied directly to the affected area.

There is no single product that is best for all situations. When choosing an ointment for muscle pain or an anti-inflammatory gel, it is advisable to consider the cause of the discomfort, its severity, the affected area, your age and any possible contraindications.

• Active ingredient: there are topical medicines containing diclofenac, ibuprofen, etofenamate and other active ingredients.
• Type of discomfort: it is important to distinguish between muscle pain, joint pain, bruising, strain or a sprain.
• Form: Gels tend to have a light texture, whilst creams and ointments come in different consistencies.
• Frequency of application: the recommended dosage for each medicine must be followed.
• Age: Not all treatments are authorised for the same age groups.
• Medical history: allergies, pregnancy, breastfeeding and certain treatments may affect their use.

Before combining a topical anti-inflammatory with other medicines, particularly other NSAIDs, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

• Localised application to the area experiencing discomfort.
• Convenient formats to incorporate into your daily routine.
• Different active ingredients to suit your needs.
• Available as gels, creams and ointments.
• Useful for the symptomatic relief of certain minor injuries when indicated.
• Easy to apply by gently massaging into the skin, following the product instructions.

Following a knock, pain, tenderness and localised swelling may occur. Some gels for knocks are indicated to relieve the symptoms resulting from bruises and minor injuries. It is important to check that there is no open wound before applying a topical medicine and always to follow the instructions on the package leaflet.

If the blow causes severe pain, significant swelling, deformity, loss of mobility, or if the symptoms do not improve, you should seek medical advice to rule out a more serious injury.

Muscle discomfort can occur after exercise, due to repetitive movements, overexertion or minor injuries. Where appropriate, a gel for muscle pain allows the treatment to be applied directly to the affected area.

The choice of medicine should be based on the type of injury and not solely on the intensity of the pain. In the case of recurring discomfort or discomfort with no obvious cause, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Anti-inflammatory gels and ointments can be used for certain mild muscular, joint and traumatic discomforts when this is stated in the medicine’s instructions. They should be applied to intact skin and for the period specified in the package leaflet.

If pain occurs following a significant injury, persists, worsens or is accompanied by loss of strength, reduced mobility, fever or severe swelling, consult a healthcare professional.

• Apply only the recommended amount to the affected area.
• Wash your hands after each application, unless the treated area is your hands.
• Avoid contact with the eyes, mucous membranes and open wounds.
• Do not increase the frequency of application in an attempt to speed up the effect.
• Do not cover the area with occlusive dressings unless specifically instructed to do so.
• Please refer to the patient information leaflet regarding sun exposure, as some topical medicines require additional precautions.

At Farmaciasdirect, you can find a range of anti-inflammatory gels and ointments for the localised treatment of muscle and joint discomfort, featuring genuine products and all the guarantees of an authorised online pharmacy. Our team of pharmacists can advise you on the characteristics of the various medicines and help you use them responsibly. Browse the available options and buy the treatment that best suits your needs, with fast delivery and specialist pharmaceutical advice.