Use of Ibuprofen gel

[AlisonClark]

Does anyone know if it is ok to use an ibuprofen gel? I have a knee problem and have been to see a physiotherapist. She has given me some exercises and suggested to use some ibuprofen gel to rub in the area of the pain. I take warfarin and I know that we are not supposed to take it orally, just wondered about the gel/cream.

Thanks

[Asdan05]

I use it very sparingly and if my leg is so painful I can’t sleep. I’m not on warfarin any more but on Apixaban though, so same rules may not apply.

[AlisonClark in reply to Asdan05]

Thanks, I might try it. I'm hoping it's not a long term problem.

[Hidden]

I can't see why not. I can quite see not taking it orally (alas!) as it can irritate your stomach lining, with the potential for bleeding, but I can't see why one can't apply it topically. Voltarol gel is also very good.

[AlisonClark in reply to Hidden]

Thanks, I'm going to buy some tomorrow. The pain I have is just when walking so normal painkillers are useless! I'll just use it sparingly but I just need something

[Hidden in reply to AlisonClark]

I hate that pain when walking - mine was, I think, a pulled muscle rather than a blood clot (although you never know), but very sore, although usually I could walk it off after awhile.

[AlisonClark in reply to Hidden]

I've had this for about 3 weeks, driving me mad. Went to the doctor who sent me to physio. Physio suggested using the gel. Had my INR check last week and it was 3.0. Maybe I'm just wearing out lol.

[smaccman51]

Hi ok to use,on skin,but don't take the tablet's

[AlisonClark in reply to smaccman51]

Thank you

[Jafe]

I’m on Rivaroxaban and have been prescribed Ibuprofen gel by the doctor so must be ok to use.

[AlisonClark in reply to Jafe]

Great, Thanks

[moo196]

Try tiger balm. Warming and soothing without any bad side effects.

[cheritorrox in reply to moo196]

but very smelly!

[moo196 in reply to cheritorrox]

But not pharmacological.... So can put up with that rather than any interaction with meds

[AlisonClark]

I have half the pharmacy here lol. Tiger balm is ok but I have also been using Wintergreen. You can smell me from 6 miles away!

[Daneball]

I'm not sure about topical gel. I can tell you this though. I have chronic pain issues, intercostal, hip and lower back. My physio taught me about kineo tape, also called muscle tape. You can google how to apply it on youtube. Just search ROCK TAPE, shoulder for example, and there are videos teaching you how to apply. you can buy inexpensive rolls on amazon and the tape can stay on for 5-6 days, even through showering and baths. It has helped me immensely.

[AlisonClark in reply to Daneball]

Thanks, will investigate

[Ukbusybee]

I’ve always been told to avoid all ibuprofens whilst on Apixaban. If it’s a mild gel I guess it may be ok for short duration but confirm with GP if longer. Gels absorb into skin so can end up in your bloodstream. I tend to stick yo red Tiger Balm and heatpads or cold packs, depending on the issue.

[AlisonClark in reply to Ukbusybee]

Thanks

[MazzyB]

I use it on my back and my foot and I was given it by my Doctor so it’s fine, I also put quite a lot on. Hope this helps.

[AlisonClark in reply to MazzyB]

Thanks, I have been using it sparingly and it is helping a little. I'll continue the exercises given to me by the physio but I think I'll be going back to the GP to be honest.

[MazzyB in reply to AlisonClark]

I can’t use it sparingly, but I am ok with it, it’s Voltarol though that I use but think it’s the same. Hope you get sorted.

[MazzyB]

Sorry just realised it’s Voltarol that I use.