Diclofenac alternatives: what to try when diclofenac isn't right

If diclofenac causes side effects or you can’t take it, you still have solid options. This page walks through practical drug alternatives, topical choices, and non-drug approaches so you can pick what fits your pain, risk profile, and daily life.

Oral and topical drug options

Other NSAIDs often work just as well. Ibuprofen is a fast-acting choice for short-term pain and fever. Naproxen lasts longer between doses, which helps for overnight pain. Meloxicam is a once-daily NSAID often used for chronic arthritis. Celecoxib is a COX-2 selective NSAID—it can be gentler on the stomach but may carry different cardiovascular risks. Talk with your clinician about which class fits your health history.

Topical NSAIDs are smart when pain is localized (knees, hands, elbows). Gels or creams deliver medicine to the joint or tendon with less impact on the stomach and kidneys. If you worry about systemic side effects, ask if a topical option could do the job.

Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is not an NSAID but helps with pain and is easier on the stomach. It won’t reduce inflammation the way NSAIDs do, so it’s better for pain without swelling. Never exceed recommended doses—liver safety matters.

For flare-ups in a single joint, doctors sometimes use an injection of a corticosteroid directly into the joint. That often gives fast relief for weeks to months, but it’s not a long-term daily solution.

Non-drug and supplement options

Physical therapy, regular low-impact exercise, and weight loss (if needed) reduce joint stress and lower pain over time. Bracing, shoe inserts, and simple home measures like targeted stretching can ease symptoms without medicine.

Some supplements have evidence for mild benefit. Curcumin (turmeric extract) and omega-3 fish oil show small-to-moderate effects for joint pain in several trials. Glucosamine and chondroitin have mixed results; some people notice improvement, others don’t. Talk to your provider before starting supplements—products vary in quality and can interact with drugs.

Heat, cold, and TENS (electrical stimulation) are low-risk tools you can try at home. For chronic pain, cognitive approaches like pain education, sleep improvement, and paced activity often add real benefit.

Safety tips: NSAIDs raise the risk of stomach bleeding, kidney problems, and can affect blood pressure. Don’t take two NSAIDs at the same time. If you’re on blood thinners, have heart disease, kidney disease, or many prescriptions, check with your doctor first. If a medication causes stomach pain, black stools, swelling, or shortness of breath, stop it and seek medical advice.

If you’re unsure which route to take—oral NSAID, topical, acetaminophen, injection, or non-drug—ask your clinician about the goal (reduce swelling vs. ease pain), your medical risks, and how long you’ll need treatment. That makes choosing easier and safer.