Best Arthritis Pain Relief Medications of 2026

Bonnie Salem Avatar
Bonnie Salem
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2026

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Arthritis pain relief medications are designed to help people suffering from the debilitating symptoms of arthritis. These medications come in different forms such as pills, creams, and gels, and work by reducing inflammation and pain in the affected joints. Some of the most common arthritis pain relief medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). While these medications can provide relief, they also come with potential side effects, so it's important to talk to a doctor before starting any new medication.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Amazon Basic Care Diclofenac Sodium 1% Gel Cover #TOP 1
Amazon Basic Care Diclofenac Sodium 1% Gel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel - 3.5 oz/100 g Tubes (Pack of 2) Cover #TOP 2
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel - 3.5 oz/100 g Tubes (Pack of 2)
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel Cover #TOP 3
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Arthritis Pain Relief Medications

#TOP 1

Amazon Basic Care Diclofenac Sodium 1% Gel

Amazon Basic Care
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Amazon Basic Care Diclofenac Sodium 1% Gel Cover
Amazon Basic Care Diclofenac Sodium Topical Gel, 1% (NSAID), for Arthritis Pain Relief, 1.76 ounce (Pack of 1) (Packaging may vary)

The Amazon Basic Care Pain Gel is designed to help you manage arthritis pain in specific areas like your hands, wrists, elbows, feet, ankles, and knees. It contains diclofenac sodium, a proven anti-inflammatory ingredient that works to reduce pain and swelling. This gel is meant for daily use, helping you stay active by easing discomfort from arthritis. With regular application, you can expect relief as it targets inflammation, making it easier to move without pain. Just remember to use it as directed, focusing on no more than two areas at a time for effective results.

What We Like
Targeted pain relief
Affordable price
Large tube lasts long
Alternative to oral NSAIDs
Reduces need for pain meds
What We Don't Like
Mild lingering scent
Limited 21-day use period
#TOP 2

Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel - 3.5 oz/100 g Tubes (Pack of 2)

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Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel - 3.5 oz/100 g Tubes (Pack of 2) Cover
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel for Powerful Topical Arthritis Pain Relief with Diclofenac - NEW Easy Open Cap - 100 g x 2

Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is a doctor-recommended, clinically proven solution that offers powerful topical pain relief for arthritis sufferers. This nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory gel penetrates deep to treat arthritis pain at the source of inflammation, improving mobility and reducing stiffness, aches, and pains. With two 3.5 oz/100 g tubes, Voltaren provides an alternative to pills, combining the benefits of an arthritis cream and gel for arthritis pain management.

What We Like
Effective pain relief
No noticeable odor
Doctor recommended
Helps with arthritis
Reduces inflammation
What We Don't Like
Limited application areas
Potential risk for cats
#TOP 3

Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel

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Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel Cover
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Relief Gel, Diclofenac Sodium, 1% (NSAID), Clinically Proven Powerful Pain Reliever, No Prescription Needed, 1.7oz

Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is a doctor recommended topical pain relief brand that provides prescription strength arthritis pain relief. It is clinically proven to relieve arthritis pain, improve mobility and reduce stiffness, aches and pains. This nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory gel penetrates deep to attack arthritis pain directly and treats arthritis pain rather than just masking it. It comes in a tube with an easy twist cap and includes a dosing card for proper dosage. The gel is paraben and dye-free, non-greasy and clean scented, and can be applied on up to two joints at the same time for hand pain, wrist pain, elbow pain, ankle pain, foot pain, or knee pain relief.

What We Like
Fast pain relief
Non-greasy texture
Mild or no odor
Works for different pain types
Easy application
What We Don't Like
Packaging inconsistencies
Effectiveness varies by individual
#TOP 4

Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel

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Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel Cover
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Relief Gel, Diclofenac Sodium, 1% (NSAID), Clinically Proven Powerful Pain Reliever with Easy Open Flip Top Cap, No Prescription Needed, 5.3oz

Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is a non-prescription, clinically proven topical pain relief gel that is the number 1 doctor recommended brand for arthritis pain relief. The 5.29 oz/150 g tube offers prescription strength arthritis pain relief by reducing stiffness, aches and pains and improving mobility. It uses diclofenac sodium topical gel to penetrate deep and attack arthritis pain directly at the source of inflammation, making it an alternative to pills and a combination of arthritis cream and gel for arthritis pain management.

What We Like
Effective pain relief
Long-lasting results
Quick acting
Improves mobility
Easy to apply
What We Don't Like
Doesn't work for everyone
Minor usage restrictions
#TOP 5

HealthCareAisle Diclofenac Gel for Arthritis Pain Relief

HealthCareAisle Diclofenac Gel for Arthritis Pain Relief Cover
HealthCareAisle Diclofenac Gel, 1%, Arthritis Pain Relief - 150 g tube - Original Prescription Strength (NSAID)

The HealthCareAisle Diclofenac Gel is a clinically proven arthritis pain relief medicine that targets painful inflammation in the hand, wrist, elbow, foot, ankle, and knee. It contains the same active ingredient as Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel and is a Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug (NSAID). You can apply it up to 4 times a day for up to 21 days, or as directed by your doctor. Follow the package label for directions, warnings, and other important information.

What We Like
Affordable price
Effective pain relief
No strong scent
Spreads easily
Same ingredients as name brand
What We Don't Like
Slightly runny texture
May feel sticky after drying
#TOP 6

Amazon Basic Care Arthritis Pain Relieving Gel

Amazon Basic Care
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Amazon Basic Care Arthritis Pain Relieving Gel Cover
Amazon Basic Care Arthritis Pain Relieving Gel, Diclofenac Sodium Topical Gel, 1% (NSAID), 5.29 Oz (150 Grams) (Packaging may vary)

Amazon Basic Care Arthritis Pain Relieving Gel is a product for temporary relief of arthritis pain. It contains diclofenac sodium, an effective NSAID, and is clinically proven to relieve arthritis pain in hand, wrist, elbow, foot, ankle, and knee. The gel is designed for daily use and can be applied four times a day. It may take up to seven days to work and can be used on no more than two body areas for up to 21 days.

What We Like
Effective pain relief
Affordable price
Alternative to oral NSAIDs
Large tube size
What We Don't Like
Lingering artificial scent
Short usage time limit
#TOP 7

HealthCareAisle Diclofenac Gel for Arthritis Pain Relief - 100g

HealthCareAisle Diclofenac Gel for Arthritis Pain Relief - 100g Cover
HealthCareAisle Diclofenac Gel, 1%, Arthritis Pain Relief - 100 g tube - Original Prescription Strength (NSAID)

HealthCareAisle Diclofenac Gel is a clinically proven NSAID medication for temporary relief of arthritis pain. Its active ingredient is the same as Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel, and it penetrates the skin to target painful inflammation in various body areas. Users can apply the gel up to 4 times a day for 21 days or as directed by their doctor, but they should avoid using it on more than two body areas simultaneously. For more information, users can check the package label for warnings and directions.

What We Like
Fast pain relief
Unscented formula
Good price
Easy application
Effective for inflammation
What We Don't Like
Complicated packaging
Delayed onset for some users
#TOP 8

Boiron Arnicare Arthritis Cream - 2.5 oz

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Boiron Arnicare Arthritis Cream - 2.5 oz Cover
Boiron Arnicare Arthritis Cream for Pain Relief of Knees, Hands, Wrists, Elbows, Joints & Muscles – Quickly Absorbed & Fragrance-Free – 2.5 oz

Boiron Arnicare Arthritis Cream provides effective relief from minor arthritis pain, stiffness, and soreness. It is suitable for use on all joints and absorbs quickly into the skin, making it ideal for flare-ups. Unlike other creams, it contains no camphor, menthol, or other ingredients that cause burning or stinging, and has a light, non-greasy texture. As it is fragrance-free and does not contain parabens or dyes, it has no strong medicinal smell.

What We Like
Effective pain relief
Improves sleep quality
No lingering odor
Non-sticky formula
Does not stain clothes
What We Don't Like
Less effective than Arnicare gel for some
#TOP 9

Curist Diclofenac Sodium Topical Gel 1 Percent 150g

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Curist Diclofenac Sodium Topical Gel 1 Percent 150g Cover
Curist Diclofenac Sodium Topical Gel 1 Percent 150g for Arthritis Pain - Joint Pain Relief for Hand/Foot Pain, Knee/Elbow Pain & Ankle Pain - 1% - 5.29oz

Curist Diclofenac Sodium Topical Gel 1 Percent 150g is a maximum OTC strength arthritis cream gel that penetrates directly at the source of joint pain inflammation relieving discomfort, stiffness, and restores mobility with continued use. It is highly effective on areas such as hand, wrist, elbow, foot, ankle, and knees. Consistent use of the gel has been medically proven to keep arthritis pain at bay. This joint pain relief cream gel contains 1% diclofenac sodium as the active ingredient which has been shown to provide powerful long-term relief from arthritis pain unlike any other topical treatments that just mask the pain temporarily.

What We Like
Effective pain relief
Affordable price
Non-greasy formula
Mild or no odor
Easy application
What We Don't Like
Relief takes a few days
#TOP 10

Curist Diclofenac Arthritis Cream Gel 1%

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Curist Diclofenac Arthritis Cream Gel 1% Cover
Curist Diclofenac Arthritis Cream Gel 1% (3 Tubes of 150g)- Stop Pain in Wrists, Feet, Elbows, & Ankles. Hand Arthritis Pain Relief & Knee Arthritis Pain Relief (3 Pack, 5.29 oz ea.)

The Curist Arthritis Pain Relief is designed to help you manage joint pain effectively. This maximum strength gel penetrates deeply to target inflammation, providing relief from discomfort and restoring mobility with regular use. Unlike other treatments that merely mask the pain, this gel works over time to reduce arthritis pain in areas like your hands, wrists, and knees. You can apply it up to four times a day, and while it may take a few days to see full effects, it offers a non-greasy finish for your convenience.

What We Like
Effective pain relief
Lower cost than name brands
Works as well as name brands
Helpful for joint and body aches
No noticeable odor
What We Don't Like
Longer absorption time
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Tips for Choosing the Arthritis Pain Relief Medications

Understanding Arthritis and Pain Relief Medications

Arthritis is a common condition that causes inflammation in the joints. It can cause symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and swelling. There are many different types of arthritis, and the right treatment will depend on the type and severity of the condition.

Consulting with a Doctor

Before starting any treatment for arthritis, it is important to consult with a doctor. A doctor can help diagnose the type of arthritis and recommend the best treatment options. They may also be able to provide advice on lifestyle changes that can help manage the condition, such as losing weight or exercising regularly.

Choosing the Right Medication

There are many different medications available to treat arthritis pain. These can be divided into two main categories: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

NSAIDs are the most commonly used medications for arthritis pain. They work by reducing inflammation and swelling in the joints. Some examples of NSAIDs include ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin. These medications can be effective at relieving pain and swelling, but they can also cause side effects such as stomach upset and ulcers.

DMARDs are a type of medication that can slow down or stop the progression of arthritis. They are usually used in cases where NSAIDs are not effective, or in people who have severe arthritis. Examples of DMARDs include methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, and sulfasalazine. These medications can be effective at reducing inflammation and slowing down the progression of the disease, but they can also have serious side effects, such as liver damage and an increased risk of infections.

Finding the Right Dose and Frequency

It is important to take arthritis medications as directed by a doctor. This will help ensure that the medication is effective and safe. The right dose and frequency of medication will depend on the type and severity of the condition, as well as the person's age and overall health.

Monitoring for Side Effects

All medications can cause side effects, and it is important to be aware of these when taking arthritis medications. Some common side effects of arthritis medications include stomach upset, dizziness, and skin rashes. If a person experiences any side effects, they should talk to their doctor about adjusting the dose or switching to a different medication.

Conclusion

Choosing the right arthritis pain relief medication can be challenging. It is important to consult with a doctor and consider the type and severity of the condition, as well as potential side effects. By working with a doctor and carefully following their instructions, people with arthritis can find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the most effective medicine for arthritis pain?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac are considered the most effective oral medicines for arthritis pain relief. These medications help reduce inflammation and provide pain relief for individuals with arthritis.

2. What is the safest anti-inflammatory drug for arthritis?

Celecoxib is considered a safe option for long-term arthritis pain management. It is an NSAID that is known to be less damaging to the stomach compared to other medications in the same class.

3. What is the strongest pain relief?

Strong pain relief medications include opioids such as morphine, diamorphine, oxycodone, fentanyl, methadone, and buprenorphine. These medications are available in various forms like tablets, capsules, liquids, skin patches, and injections.

4. What is the strongest anti-inflammatory medication?

Diclofenac is considered the strongest and most effective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication available. It is available in prescription brands like Cambia, Cataflam, Zipsor, and Zorvolex. There is also an over-the-counter topical gel form called Voltaren.

5. What is the quickest way to stop arthritis pain?

Heat and/or ice therapy can provide quick relief for arthritis pain. Heat helps relieve muscle and joint stiffness, warm up joints before activity, and ease muscle spasms. Cold therapy can reduce joint inflammation, swelling, and pain.

6. What is the new drug for arthritis?

Baricitinib (Olumiant) is a newly approved pill for arthritis treatment. It is a targeted disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) that blocks Janus kinase (JAK), an enzyme group responsible for activating inflammatory signals within cells.

7. What is the best thing to take for arthritis and inflammation?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used for arthritis and inflammation. Examples include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) and naproxen sodium (Aleve). These medications help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.

8. What drugs do doctors prescribe for severe pain?

Doctors may prescribe opioids like codeine, fentanyl, hydrocodone, and morphine for severe pain management. Corticosteroids, such as Prednisone, are also used to treat migraines, severe arthritis, and back pain as they are strong anti-inflammatory drugs.

9. What are the five strongest pain medications?

The five strongest pain medications include fentanyl, oxycodone, Percocet, hydrocodone, and Demerol. These medications, known as opioid analgesics, are used to relieve pain.

10. What is the best inflammatory painkiller?

Naproxen (Aleve) is considered the strongest over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for inflammatory pain relief. It provides longer-lasting pain relief compared to ibuprofen.

Editor's Notes

During our arthritis pain relief medication research, we found 26 arthritis pain relief medication products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 462,852 customer reviews through our big data system to write the arthritis pain relief medications list. We found that most customers choose arthritis pain relief medications with an average price of $17.55.

The arthritis pain relief medications are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of arthritis pain relief medications, including Voltaren, HealthCareAisle, Boiron, Curist. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Bonnie Salem Avatar

Bonnie Salem is a stay-at-home mother with two-year-old twins and has spent almost half of her life surrounded by baby products. As a mother and a professional copywriter, she has an insightful and unique eye for researching products suitable for infants. Bonnie Salem is an expert in health and nutrition who lives with her family in New Jersey. She has over 15 years of working experience in an institute of medicine after graduating from the University of Toronto. She is highly interested in personal health and wellness.

Arthritis Pain Relief Medications Comparison Table

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Brand Amazon Basic Care Voltaren Voltaren Voltaren HealthCareAisle Amazon Basic Care HealthCareAisle Boiron Curist Curist
Product Benefits Arthritis Control Arthritis Control, Pain Relief Soothing Arthritis Control Arthritis Control Arthritis Control Arthritis Control Arthritis Control, Pain Relief Arthritis Arthritis
Specific Uses For Product Arthritis Arthritis, Joint Pain, Muscle Pain Arthritis, Joint Pain, Muscle Pain, Pain Relief Arthritis Arthritis Arthritis Arthritis Arthritis, Joint Pain, Muscle Pain Arthritis, Joint Pain Arthritis
Item Weight 2.4 ounces 7.06 Ounces 1.76 Ounces 5.3 Ounces 5.29 Ounces - 4.8 ounces 2.5 Ounces 0.19 Kilograms -
Item dimensions L x W x H 1.85 x 6.69 x 1.85 inches 6.13 x 10 x 4 inches 1.46 x 6.69 x 2.17 inches 1.9 x 8.3 x 2.2 inches 8.27 x 1.77 x 2.17 inches 2.17 x 6.69 x 2.56 inches 1.77 x 7.09 x 2.17 inches 5.95 x 2.2 x 1.5 inches - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
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