Ibuprofen Gel (5% & 10%)

Ibuprofen Gel is a topical anti-inflammatory pain relief gel applied directly to the skin. It contains ibuprofen as its active ingredient, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces both pain and inflammation at the site of application.

Available in two strengths, 5% and 10%, Ibuprofen Gel is absorbed through the skin into the underlying tissue, targeting pain and inflammation directly and locally without the need for an oral tablet.

Ibuprofen Gel is used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with a range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

Backache - including lower back pain and muscular back pain

Rheumatic pain - pain and stiffness associated with rheumatic conditions

Muscular pain - soreness, tension and overuse injuries affecting the muscles

Sprains - soft tissue injuries from sudden overstretching

Strains - muscle or tendon injuries from overexertion

Arthritic conditions - including osteoarthritis affecting the knees, hands, and other joints

It provides localised relief at the site of application and is most effective for pain in accessible areas of the body.

Ibuprofen Gel is available in two strengths:

Ibuprofen 5% Gel - the standard strength, suitable for most cases of muscle pain, joint pain, sprains, and strains. A good starting point if you have not used topical ibuprofen before.

Ibuprofen 10% Gel - a higher-strength formulation, typically used when a greater local concentration of ibuprofen is required, such as for more significant joint pain or arthritic conditions.

If you are unsure which strength is most appropriate for your situation, our prescribers will assess and advise as part of your online consultation.

Ibuprofen works by inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes in the body. These enzymes are responsible for producing prostaglandins, chemicals released in response to tissue injury or disease that trigger the sensation of pain and inflammation.

By blocking the production of prostaglandins at the site of application, Ibuprofen Gel reduces both pain and swelling in the affected area. Because it is applied directly to the skin, it reaches the underlying tissue through absorption, allowing it to act locally at the source of pain with lower systemic exposure than an oral ibuprofen tablet.

Always use Ibuprofen Gel as directed. For external use only. Suitable for adults, the elderly, and children aged 12 and over.

1. Apply 5 to 10 cm of gel to the affected area.

2. Gently rub the gel into the skin until fully absorbed.

3. Reapply as needed every 4 hours.

4. Do not apply more than 4 times in 24 hours.

5. Wash your hands before and after each application, unless the hands are the area being treated.

6. Do not apply to broken, damaged, or infected skin.

7. Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.

Do not use on children under 12 years of age.

Ibuprofen Gel begins to work quickly after application, with many people noticing a soothing and cooling effect on the affected area shortly after rubbing it in. For sustained pain relief, apply regularly every 4 hours throughout the day, up to a maximum of 4 times in 24 hours.

Consistent, regular application helps maintain a therapeutic level of ibuprofen in the underlying tissue, keeping pain and inflammation under control over the course of the day.

Both oral ibuprofen and Ibuprofen Gel contain the same active ingredient and work through the same mechanism, but they differ in how they are delivered and where they act.

Oral ibuprofen is absorbed through the digestive system and circulates throughout the body, making it useful for widespread pain, headaches, fever, and general aches. However, it can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as stomach irritation in some people.

Ibuprofen Gel is applied directly to the skin and absorbed into the local tissue at the site of pain. Because systemic absorption is much lower, it is generally better tolerated by people who experience stomach discomfort with oral NSAIDs. It is most suitable for localised pain in accessible areas such as joints, muscles, and tendons.

The two forms can complement each other but should not routinely be used together without guidance, as combining topical and oral NSAIDs increases the overall systemic exposure to ibuprofen.

Do not use Ibuprofen Gel if you:

Are allergic to ibuprofen, aspirin, or any other NSAID

Have a known allergy to any ingredient in the gel

Have or have had asthma, nettle rash (urticaria), or nasal inflammation triggered by aspirin or NSAIDs

Have kidney failure

Are pregnant - see pregnancy section below

Take care when using Ibuprofen Gel alongside other medicines containing NSAIDs such as oral ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen, as this increases the risk of side effects.

Stop using the gel and speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you experience difficulty breathing, sudden wheeziness, itching, rash, blistering, peeling of the skin, or swelling of the face, eyelids, or lips.

Do not use on children under 12 years of age.

Please read the patient information leaflet enclosed with your medication before use.

Q: What is Ibuprofen Gel used for?

Ibuprofen Gel 5% and 10% is a topical anti-inflammatory pain relief gel used to treat localised muscle pain, backache, joint pain, rheumatic pain, sprains, strains, and arthritic conditions. It is applied directly to the skin over the affected area.

Q: What is the difference between 5% and 10% Ibuprofen Gel?

Both strengths contain the same active ingredient. The 5% gel is the standard formulation suitable for most cases of muscle and joint pain. The 10% gel contains a higher concentration of ibuprofen and is typically used for more significant or persistent joint pain or arthritis. If you are unsure which strength is right for you, our prescribers will advise during your consultation.

Q: How often should I apply Ibuprofen Gel?

Apply 5 to 10 cm of gel to the affected area and rub in gently. Reapply every 4 hours as needed. Do not apply more than 4 times in 24 hours.

Q: Can I use Ibuprofen Gel at the same time as taking ibuprofen tablets?

Using topical Ibuprofen Gel alongside oral ibuprofen increases overall systemic exposure to ibuprofen and should generally be avoided without medical guidance. Disclose all medicines you are taking during your consultation.

Q: Can children use Ibuprofen Gel?

Ibuprofen Gel is suitable for children aged 12 and over. It must not be used in children under 12 years of age.

Q: Is Ibuprofen Gel safe if I have asthma?

Some people with asthma are sensitive to NSAIDs including ibuprofen, and can experience respiratory reactions. Do not use Ibuprofen Gel if you have asthma that has previously been triggered by aspirin or other NSAIDs. Disclose any asthma diagnosis during your consultation.

Q: Can I use Ibuprofen Gel during pregnancy?

Ibuprofen Gel is not recommended during pregnancy. It must not be used during the third trimester. Disclose pregnancy status during your consultation and our prescribers will advise accordingly.

Q: How is Ibuprofen Gel different from Voltarol Emulgel?

Both are topical NSAIDs that work at the site of pain. Ibuprofen Gel contains ibuprofen, while Voltarol Emulgel contains diclofenac. Both work through a similar mechanism. The choice between them depends on individual preference, response, and medical history. Our prescribers can advise which is most suitable for your situation.

Q: What should I do if I experience a skin reaction?

Stop using the gel immediately and speak to your doctor or pharmacist. If you experience swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or severe blistering of the skin, seek urgent medical attention.

Q: Is the gel a generic product?

Yes. My London Pharmacy supplies a generic version of Ibuprofen Gel. The manufacturer may vary depending on availability, but the active ingredient and its effect remain the same. Contact us after placing your order if you require a specific brand.