NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for external use - an effective medication for pain in muscles and joints. One of the most popular drugs is Nurofen-gel, the instructions for use of which suggests using it to eliminate back discomfort, as well as the symptomatic treatment of arthritis and arthrosis.
Material Content:
The composition of the drug
The medicine is available in aluminum tubes of 50 and 100 g. The active substance is ibuprofen, at a concentration of 5%, or 2.5 g of the drug in 50 g of gel. The forming components of the composition are represented by a mixture of benzyl and isopropyl alcohol, sodium hydroxide, water and a SCE stabilizer.
The full name of the gel is Nurofen Express. The tool is presented in two volumes and is dispensed without a prescription.
What helps Nurofen gel
The drug is used to reduce pain in joints, ligaments, muscles.
It is used as part of symptomatic therapy of the following conditions:
- arthritis and arthrosis;
- joint injuries;
- arthralgia;
- myalgia;
- sprain;
- neuralgia.
The medication has gained wide popularity among athletes and is regarded as an ambulance for muscle pain and sprain. The medicine has a pronounced analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect, making it effective for arthritis.
The gel reduces swelling of tissues in case of damage to joints and ligaments, quickly restores impaired mobility and reduces muscle clamps with neuralgia and diseases of the spine.However, as an independent tool in inflammatory processes, it is not used, it is indicated only for the quick elimination of symptoms.
Instructions for use and dosage
An anti-inflammatory drug is applied directly to the affected area. Dosage depends on the area of damage. It is necessary to squeeze a column of gel 4-10 cm long, apply to the skin and gently rub with massage movements. Then you need to wait until the drug is completely absorbed.
The gel is quickly absorbed, does not leave a greasy film and does not stain clothes.
Repeated application of the drug is possible after 4 hours. It is allowed to use the gel no more than four times a day.
The duration of treatment depends on the cause of the pain. The therapeutic effect is observed half an hour after application of the substance. The maximum permissible rate of continuous use of the product is 14 days. If after two weeks the symptoms have not disappeared, you should consult a doctor. In the case when after applying the drug the pain intensified or another severe discomfort appeared, you should stop using the gel and contact a medical institution.
There is a protective membrane on the neck of the tube, which must be pierced with the back of the cap before first use. The gel can not be applied under dressings, it should be immediately absorbed.
During pregnancy and breastfeeding
In late pregnancy, the drug is contraindicated, it is not recommended to use it in the 1st and 2nd trimester, but in some cases exceptions may be made as directed by the doctor.
When breastfeeding, a single or irregular use of the gel is allowed. If necessary, the systematic use of the drug should stop breast-feeding and transfer the child to artificial mixtures, since in this case there is a risk of penetration of the active substance into milk.
Contraindications, side effects and overdose
The remedy for pain in muscles and joints is prohibited in the following cases:
- hypersensitivity to ibuprofen;
- history of intolerance to NSAIDs or acute allergic reactions to acetylsalicylic acid;
- patient's age is less than 14 years;
- third trimester of pregnancy;
- the presence of wounds and abrasions on the skin.
The drug should not be applied to the wound surface, eczema, inflamed epidermis or trophic ulcers. In case of exacerbation of bronchial asthma, acute renal failure and severe skin allergic reactions, one should refrain from using the product, or use it only as directed by a doctor.
The gel is used exclusively externally, avoid contact with mucous membranes and eyes.
Side effects are rare and are manifested by an allergic reaction, dyspepsia, impaired renal function. If undesirable symptoms occur, stop using the medication and seek medical help.
The risk of overdose, following the instructions, is reduced to zero.
If there has been an accidental ingestion of the drug, a severe headache, nausea, and blood pressure decrease.
In case of an overdose of the medication, symptomatic therapy is prescribed.
Analogues of the drug
Full analogues of the drug for external use Nurofen is a cream and gel Dolgit, Ibuprofen. These drugs have the same composition and dosage.
To eliminate pain in injuries of the musculoskeletal system, sprain and muscle damage, you can use the drugs Diclofenac, Diclac, Voltaren Emulgel. The composition of these drugs is another active substance with similar pharmacological properties.
With intolerance to NSAIDs, you can pay attention to the drugs Apizartron, Viprosal, Vipratox. These drugs are used for pain in muscles, joints and neuralgia, and the main active ingredient is bee and snake venom.
Only a doctor can choose the best drug.If the symptoms do not disappear a few days after the start of the analgesic gel therapy, it is recommended not to delay it and rather consult a specialist.
