Ibuprofen

[Goodwitch9]

I sometimes take Ibuprofen for an arthritic knee but keep reading that there are side effects if you take it regularly. Would using the gel be better for me, health wise?

Ask a pharmacist.

Thanks Plum, will do. But in the meantime does anyone have any experience on this?

@Goodwitch9
Would using the gel be better for me, health wise?

I'm not a doc, but imo if the gel helps you enough, that's the way to go. Are you using the 10%? It's very effective. There are also exercises that help.
Just one less thing to worry about.

Yes I think taken orally there can be side effects. See here: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/ibuprofen-for-adults/side-effects-of-ibuprofen/

When I had to take it long term I was also given a stomach protector drug

Is it stomach ulcer type side effects you are referring to OP or other symptoms you are worried about? Have you seen an orthopaedic surgeon yet? Have you had a cortisone injection to ease the pain temporarily? Is the ibuprofen being prescribed? The gel is still systemic, but I doubt it would have the same gastic issues as the tablets, but that is a question for your GP, surgeon or pharmacist.

Depending on where you arthritis pain in, an offloader knee brace might help. In my case, it opened up the section of bone which was grinding and put the weight down the other side. I was able to then do physio exercises and walk again. A year later, I weaned myself off the brace and 5yrs on, no longer need analgesia for my knee now need the brace! I will need a replacement at some point, but not now.

Read the leaflet in the box and stop reading the Daily Mail.

Try?

pharmacologically the gel does work via absorption, and yes it would still have the same side effects.

generally the gel is effective because the rubbing/massaging action will also help- but you might as well take 2 tablets and give your knee a massage.