What Can I Use Instead of Voltaren Gel? A Guide to Alternatives

October 5, 2025 •

5 min read

According to the Arthritis Foundation, many patients with joint pain find relief using topical NSAIDs like diclofenac, the active ingredient in Voltaren gel. However, for those with contraindications, seeking alternative mechanisms, or simply wanting to explore other options, there are many effective choices. This guide explores what can I use instead of Voltaren gel to manage pain and inflammation.

Quick Summary

This article discusses various alternatives to Voltaren gel for managing pain, including other topical and oral medications as well as natural remedies. It covers different active ingredients, their mechanisms, and considerations for specific types of pain. A comparative table highlights key differences, helping you understand your options beyond Voltaren.

Key Points

Topical anesthetics offer numbness: Instead of using Voltaren's anti-inflammatory action, products with lidocaine provide localized numbing relief, which is ideal for nerve pain or acute strains.
Counterirritants distract from pain: Gels and creams with menthol or camphor create a cooling or warming sensation that can temporarily divert your attention from muscle aches and soreness.
Capsaicin blocks pain signals over time: Creams containing capsaicin, from chili peppers, can reduce pain transmission over several weeks by depleting a nerve chemical called substance P.
Oral options have different risks: For broader pain relief, acetaminophen or other oral NSAIDs can be used, but they carry a higher risk of systemic side effects, unlike targeted topical treatments.
Natural and lifestyle approaches complement treatment: Incorporating methods like weight management, exercise, heat/cold therapy, and anti-inflammatory diets can effectively support pain relief and improve long-term joint health.
Always consult a healthcare provider: Due to individual health considerations and potential medication interactions, it is crucial to discuss any alternatives with a doctor or pharmacist.

For many, diclofenac gel (Voltaren) is a go-to solution for localized pain, particularly from arthritis. However, some individuals may need or prefer an alternative due to potential side effects, inadequate relief, or health conditions that make NSAID use risky. A wide range of topical, oral, and natural treatments offer different approaches to alleviating pain and inflammation.

Topical Alternatives for Localized Relief

Topical treatments are an excellent way to target pain directly at the site of discomfort, often with fewer systemic side effects than oral medications.

Topical Anesthetics (Lidocaine)

Lidocaine is a topical anesthetic that works by numbing the area to block pain signals from reaching the brain. It is particularly effective for nerve pain but can also help with muscle strains and sprains.

Products: Aspercreme with Lidocaine, Salonpas Lidocaine patches, and various store-brand lidocaine creams.
Mechanism: Blocks nerve conduction, interrupting pain signals.
Considerations: Provides a numbing effect rather than addressing inflammation. Generally has a fast onset of action.

Counterirritants (Menthol, Camphor, Methyl Salicylate)

These ingredients create a hot or cold sensation on the skin, distracting from the underlying pain.

Products: Icy Hot, Biofreeze, Tiger Balm, Bengay.
Mechanism: Induces a cooling or warming sensation to temporarily divert attention from pain.
Considerations: Offers temporary relief and does not address the root cause of inflammation. Strong scents are common.

Capsaicin Creams

Derived from chili peppers, capsaicin reduces pain by depleting substance P, a chemical that transmits pain signals.

Products: Zostrix, Capzasin-HP.
Mechanism: Blocks pain signals by reducing substance P in nerve endings. Works best when used regularly over time.
Considerations: Can cause an initial burning sensation that may take a few weeks to subside. The American College of Rheumatology advises against its use in some cases.

Arnica

Arnica is a homeopathic remedy often used in gels and creams for muscle soreness, bruising, and swelling.

Products: Boiron Arnicare Gel, Dr. Bronner's Arnica Menthol Balm.
Mechanism: Believed to have anti-inflammatory effects and promote healing.
Considerations: Often unscented and non-greasy. Evidence for efficacy can vary, but it is a popular option.

Oral Medication Alternatives

If localized treatment isn't sufficient, oral medications can provide broader relief, but they carry a higher risk of systemic side effects than topical forms.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol): An effective pain reliever that is easier on the stomach than NSAIDs but does not reduce inflammation. Safe for those who cannot take NSAIDs due to stomach issues or other contraindications.
Oral NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Naproxen): Over-the-counter NSAIDs like Advil or Aleve can treat mild to moderate pain and inflammation. Prolonged use carries risks like stomach bleeding, kidney damage, and heart problems.
Prescription-Strength Options: Stronger NSAIDs or other medications like COX-2 inhibitors may be prescribed by a doctor for chronic or severe pain.

Natural and Lifestyle-Based Pain Management

Combining medication with natural and lifestyle approaches can be a powerful strategy for long-term pain management.

Heat and Cold Therapy: Apply heat to soothe stiff joints and muscles. Use cold packs to reduce swelling and inflammation during flare-ups.
Weight Management: Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly reduce pressure on joints, easing pain and slowing the progression of conditions like osteoarthritis.
Dietary Adjustments: Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Supplements: Turmeric (curcumin) and fish oil (omega-3s) have known anti-inflammatory properties that may help with joint pain. Always consult a doctor before starting new supplements due to potential interactions.
Exercise and Physical Therapy: Regular, low-impact exercise like swimming, cycling, or tai chi can improve flexibility, strength, and overall joint function. Physical therapy can also help with targeted exercises and pain management strategies.

Comparison of Pain Relief Alternatives


Alternative	Active Ingredient	Mechanism	Best For...	Considerations
Voltaren Gel (Reference)	Diclofenac (Topical NSAID)	Reduces inflammation at the application site.	Arthritis pain in superficial joints (hands, knees).	Prescription-strength version requires prescription; oral NSAID risks associated with prolonged use.
Aspercreme with Lidocaine	Lidocaine (Topical Anesthetic)	Numbing to block pain signals.	Strains, sprains, and nerve pain.	Does not reduce inflammation; temporary numbing relief.
Icy Hot / Biofreeze	Menthol / Camphor (Counterirritants)	Creates a cooling/warming sensation to distract from pain.	Minor muscle aches, soreness, and sprains.	Temporary effect; strong scent.
Capsaicin Cream	Capsaicin	Depletes Substance P to block pain signals.	Nerve pain, chronic muscle and joint aches.	Can cause initial burning; takes time to become effective.
Arnica Gel	Arnica	Believed to reduce inflammation and promote healing.	Bruises, muscle soreness, and pain.	Natural option; evidence is not as robust as NSAIDs.
Acetaminophen (Oral)	Acetaminophen (Non-NSAID)	Reduces pain and fever; different mechanism from NSAIDs.	Mild to moderate pain; suitable for those with NSAID contraindications.	Does not address inflammation; risk of liver damage with excessive use.

Conclusion

While Voltaren gel is a popular and effective option for localized arthritis pain, numerous alternatives are available, depending on the type and severity of your discomfort and your individual health profile. Topical options like lidocaine or counterirritants can offer temporary, targeted relief with different mechanisms of action. Oral medications provide broader pain management but carry greater systemic risks. Natural remedies and lifestyle modifications, such as weight management, exercise, and anti-inflammatory foods, can be complementary strategies for long-term symptom control. Always consult a healthcare provider to discuss the best and safest pain management plan for your specific needs, especially before combining different medications or starting new supplements.

Important Considerations for Finding Alternatives

Consult a professional: A healthcare provider can accurately diagnose the cause of your pain and recommend the most appropriate and safest treatment plan.
Identify your pain type: The best alternative often depends on whether you have arthritis, nerve pain, or muscle soreness.
Check for allergies and interactions: Be aware of potential allergies and interactions with other medications, especially with oral NSAIDs and supplements.
Understand systemic vs. topical risks: While topical applications generally have fewer side effects than oral ones, NSAIDs can still pose risks, particularly with long-term use.
Consider multi-modal therapy: A combination of therapies, including medication, natural remedies, and physical therapy, often provides the most comprehensive and effective pain management.

For more information on arthritis pain management, you can visit the Arthritis Foundation website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Effective over-the-counter alternatives include topical products with lidocaine (like Aspercreme), counterirritants (like Icy Hot or Biofreeze), or capsaicin. For oral relief, acetaminophen (Tylenol) is a non-NSAID option.

Yes, natural options like arnica gel, turmeric supplements, and omega-3 fatty acids can be used, often alongside other treatments. Lifestyle changes like weight management and specific exercises can also provide significant relief.

No, Voltaren gel is not safe for everyone. People with a history of heart disease, stomach bleeding, kidney issues, or certain allergies should use it with caution or avoid it entirely.

Voltaren is specifically approved and most effective for arthritis pain in superficial joints like the hands, wrists, elbows, knees, ankles, and feet. For back pain, other products like lidocaine patches or counterirritants may be more suitable.

Topical analgesics work directly at the application site and have a lower risk of systemic side effects compared to oral pain relievers, which are absorbed throughout the body. However, topical options are best for localized, superficial pain.

No, capsaicin cream generally takes longer to provide effective relief, often requiring consistent use over a couple of weeks to deplete the pain-transmitting chemical, Substance P. Voltaren often provides faster anti-inflammatory effects.

Consider the location and type of your pain (nerve, muscle, or joint), potential medication side effects, allergies, and interactions. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.