Best Arthritis Pain Relief Medications for Anti-Inflammatory of 2026

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

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Anti-inflammatory medications are commonly used to relieve arthritis pain and inflammation. These medications work by reducing inflammation, which in turn reduces pain and swelling. Common anti-inflammatory medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin. These medications are available over-the-counter or in prescription strength. Corticosteroids are another type of anti-inflammatory medication that may be prescribed by a doctor to relieve arthritis symptoms. These medications work by reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider before taking any new medications to ensure they are safe and effective for the individual.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel - 3.5 oz/100 g Tubes (Pack of 2) Cover #TOP 1
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel - 3.5 oz/100 g Tubes (Pack of 2)
ftb score rating icon 9.9
GeriCare Arthritis Pain Relief Gel Cover #TOP 2
GeriCare Arthritis Pain Relief Gel
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel Cover #TOP 3
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Arthritis Pain Relief Medications for Anti-Inflammatory

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

GeriCare Arthritis Pain Relief Gel

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GeriCare Arthritis Pain Relief Gel Cover
Topical Arthritis Pain Relief Gel Diclofenac Sodium 1% (NSAID) by GeriCare- Hand Wrist Elbow Foot Ankle Knee Extra-Strength Arthritis Pain Reliever- Anti-inflammatory Arthritis Pain Treatment- 3.53oz

The GeriCare Pain Relief Gel is an effective solution for arthritis pain. It contains Diclofenac Sodium 1% and provides advanced pain relief for people of any age. Unlike other creams that only mask the pain, this gel penetrates deep into the site of pain, treating it directly. It may take up to a week to unleash its long-lasting effect, but once it does, it keeps arthritis pain at bay for prolonged relief. In addition to relieving pain, it also has anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce joint stiffness. The gel can be applied to any achy part of the body, providing targeted pain relief. With GeriCare's seal of excellence and 30 years of experience, you can trust this gel for your arthritis pain relief needs.

What We Like
Advanced pain relief
Targets pain at site
Anti-inflammatory properties
#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
#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
#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
#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
#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
#TOP 8

GeriCare Topical Arthritis Pain Relief Gel

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GeriCare Topical Arthritis Pain Relief Gel Cover
GeriCare Topical Arthritis Pain Relief Gel Diclofenac Sodium 1% (NSAID) Hand Wrist Elbow Foot Ankle Knee Extra-Strength Pain Reliever- Anti-inflammatory Arthritis Pain Treatment, 3.53oz (2 Pack)

GeriCare Topical Arthritis Pain Relief Gel is an extra-strength pain reliever that helps reduce joint stiffness and inflammation. This topical NSAID Diclofenac targets pain at the site of application and provides long-lasting relief from arthritis pain in any part of the body. The gel penetrates deep into the skin to treat the pain rather than masking it, and it may take up to a week to fully unleash its effects. GeriCare has 30 years of experience in creating high-quality supplements and medical supplies.

What We Like
Effective solution against arthritis pain
Provides anti-inflammatory and anti-stiffness action
Targets pain at the site of application for real results
#TOP 9

Aspercreme Arthritis Pain Relief Gel

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Aspercreme Arthritis Pain Relief Gel Cover
Aspercreme Arthritis Pain Relief Gel for Arthritis & Joint Pain, Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Topical Gel with Max-Strength Diclofenac Sodium, 100 g

Aspercreme Pain Relief Gel is designed to help you manage arthritis and joint pain effectively. This clinically proven gel contains 1% diclofenac, a powerful non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that targets pain directly at the source, helping reduce inflammation and improve your mobility. You can enjoy the convenience of over-the-counter availability, meaning you can access prescription-strength relief without needing a doctor’s visit. Plus, the travel-size tube makes it easy to take your pain relief wherever you go, ensuring you're always prepared when discomfort strikes.

What We Like
Clinically proven effectiveness
Powerful anti-inflammatory action
No prescription required
Portable travel-size tube
#TOP 10

C'rcle Diclofenac Sodium Gel 1%

C'rcle
100801
1 Pack
C'rcle Diclofenac Sodium Gel 1% Cover
Diclofenac Sodium Gel 1% 150g Effective Arthritis Pain Reliever - Prescription Strength Anti-Inflammatory Gel - Extra Strength Arthritis Cream for Daily Use - Get Over-The-Counter Relief(1Pack)

Circle's Arthritis Gel is a prescription-strength anti-inflammatory gel that provides effective pain relief for daily arthritis symptoms. This topical NSAID gel is perfect for targeting smaller joints such as elbows, wrists, hands, knees, ankles, or feet. It is the best choice for relieving ankle pain, hand pain, and knee pain, allowing you to live your best life every day. This gel is safe and ideal for treating arthritis pain in individuals over 65 years old, those who are sensitive to oral NSAIDs, or have heart risk factors. With just 2-4 grams applied to the affected area, you can experience powerful anti-inflammatory pain relief and enjoy life without the limitations of arthritis.

What We Like
Prescription-strength
Targeted pain relief
Safe for older individuals
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the best painkiller for inflammatory arthritis?

NSAIDs are the most effective oral medicines for OA. They include ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) naproxen (Aleve) and diclofenac (Voltaren, others). All work by blocking enzymes that cause pain and swelling.

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

For example, celecoxib is considered safe for long-term arthritis pain. It does less damage to the stomach than other NAIDs.

3. What is the most commonly prescribed medication for arthritis?

NSAIDS, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are commonly prescribed for arthritis pain and other symptoms....Names of some common drugs in this class, which are all given by injection, include:. Humira (adalimumab)Enbrel (etanercept)Orencia (abatacept)Rituxan (rituximab)Remicade (infliximab)

4. Which is prescribed to treat pain in patients with arthritis?

NSAIDs and Acetaminophen Non-opioid analgesics used to treat arthritis and musculoskeletal pain include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen. NSAIDs are designed to reduce inflammation and relieve mild to moderate pain.

Editor's Notes

During our arthritis pain relief medication for anti-inflammatory research, we found 24 arthritis pain relief medication for anti-inflammatory products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 429,116 customer reviews through our big data system to write the arthritis pain relief medications for anti-inflammatory list. We found that most customers choose arthritis pain relief medications for anti-inflammatory with an average price of $17.87.

The arthritis pain relief medications for anti-inflammatory are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of arthritis pain relief medications for anti-inflammatory, including Voltaren, GeriCare, HealthCareAisle, Aspercreme, C'rcle. 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.