Trying to avoid diclofenac or need a backup because of side effects? Good call. Diclofenac works well for inflammation and pain, but it can upset the stomach, affect kidneys, and raise heart risk for some people. Here are clear, practical alternatives you can discuss with your doctor.
Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is a first simple swap for mild to moderate pain. It won’t hurt your stomach like NSAIDs do, but it doesn’t reduce inflammation. Keep an eye on total daily dose, especially if you drink alcohol or use other meds that stress the liver.
Naproxen and ibuprofen are common NSAID options. Naproxen has a longer effect and, based on large reviews, may carry a lower heart risk than diclofenac. Ibuprofen works well for short-term pain and fever but can still irritate the stomach and affect blood pressure.
Celecoxib is a COX-2 selective drug that can be easier on the stomach for some people. It still affects the heart and kidneys, so it’s not automatically safer—ask your doctor if it fits your health profile.
Topical anti-inflammatories are great when pain is local. Gels or creams with diclofenac, ketoprofen, or ibuprofen give strong local relief with much less whole-body exposure. For knee or hand osteoarthritis, topical options often reduce pain without the same systemic risks.
For nerve-related pain, drugs like gabapentin or pregabalin work differently and may help where NSAIDs don’t. They come with their own side effects, so ask about daytime sleepiness and balance issues.
Simple steps can cut pain and reduce the need for drugs. Physical therapy, targeted exercise, and weight loss ease joint load and improve long-term pain control. Heat and cold work for many common aches—ice for recent injury, heat for stiff muscles.
Topical capsaicin, lidocaine patches, and glucosamine supplements help some people with joint or nerve pain. Acupuncture, TENS units, and targeted steroid injections are valid options when conservative care isn’t enough.
Safety tips: don’t stack NSAIDs (no ibuprofen plus naproxen). If you have heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney disease, or a history of stomach ulcers, talk to your doctor before trying any NSAID. If you must use an NSAID long-term, ask whether a PPI (stomach protectant) or regular monitoring is needed.
If pain is severe, getting worse, or paired with fever, numbness, swelling, or unexplained weight loss, see a clinician fast. Your doctor can help pick the safest, most effective alternative based on your health, other meds, and the type of pain you have.
Want help deciding which option fits you? Bring a list of your meds and health issues to your next visit and ask about both drug and non-drug choices—you’ll often find a safer plan that still controls the pain.
