Ibuprofen 5% Gel 50g (Brand May Vary)
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Ibuprofen 5% Gel is a topical anti-inflammatory medicine that provides effective relief from pain and inflammation in muscles, joints, and soft tissues. This gel contains ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works directly at the site of pain when applied to the skin. It’s particularly useful for treating sprains, strains, sports injuries, backache, and rheumatic pain. The gel formulation allows for targeted application and is absorbed through the skin to provide localised relief without the systemic side effects often associated with oral pain medications.
Description
Ibuprofen 5% Gel 50g (Brand May Vary)
Ibuprofen 5% Gel is a topical anti-inflammatory medicine that provides effective relief from pain and inflammation in muscles, joints, and soft tissues. This gel contains ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works directly at the site of pain when applied to the skin. It’s particularly useful for treating sprains, strains, sports injuries, backache, and rheumatic pain. The gel formulation allows for targeted application and is absorbed through the skin to provide localised relief without the systemic side effects often associated with oral pain medications.
How It Works
Ibuprofen belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). When applied topically, ibuprofen works by blocking the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals in the body that cause pain, inflammation, and swelling. By reducing prostaglandin production at the site of application, the gel helps to decrease inflammation, reduce pain, and improve mobility in the affected area. The gel formulation allows ibuprofen to penetrate through the skin layers to reach the underlying tissues where inflammation is occurring.
Directions for Use
For adults and children over 12 years: Apply a thin layer of gel (approximately 1-4cm depending on the size of the affected area) to the painful or swollen area and gently massage into the skin until completely absorbed. Use 3-4 times daily, leaving at least 4 hours between applications. Wash your hands thoroughly after application unless the hands are the area being treated. Do not use for more than 2 weeks unless advised by your pharmacist or doctor. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your healthcare professional. Do not apply to broken, damaged, or infected skin, or to areas covered by a bandage or dressing.
Active Ingredients
Each gram of gel contains 50mg of ibuprofen (5% w/w). The gel also contains excipients including isopropyl alcohol, carbomer, diethylamine, and purified water to create a smooth, easily absorbed formulation.
Possible Side Effects
Most people find ibuprofen gel well-tolerated, but like all medicines, it can cause side effects. Common side effects may include skin irritation, redness, itching, or a burning sensation at the application site. These effects are usually mild and temporary. Less commonly, some people may experience skin rash or dermatitis. Very rarely, if significant amounts are absorbed through the skin, systemic side effects similar to those seen with oral NSAIDs may occur, including stomach upset or breathing difficulties in sensitive individuals. If you experience persistent skin irritation or any unexpected side effects, stop using the gel and consult your pharmacist or doctor.
Who Should Not Take This Medicine
Do not use ibuprofen gel if you are allergic to ibuprofen or any other ingredients in the gel, if you have previously had allergic reactions to aspirin or other NSAIDs, or if you are in the last three months of pregnancy. Children under 12 years should not use this medicine. Do not apply to broken, damaged, infected, or eczematous skin, or to mucous membranes such as inside the mouth, nose, or genital area. Avoid contact with eyes and do not apply to large areas of the body simultaneously.
Interactions
When used as directed on small areas of skin, ibuprofen gel has minimal interaction with other medicines due to low systemic absorption. However, inform your PillSorted pharmacist if you are taking blood-thinning medicines (anticoagulants), other NSAIDs, certain blood pressure medicines, or lithium, as there may be potential interactions if significant absorption occurs. If you are using other topical preparations on the same area, allow adequate time between applications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Do not use ibuprofen gel during the last three months of pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby or cause problems during delivery. If you are in the first or second trimester of pregnancy, consult your PillSorted pharmacist before use. Small amounts of ibuprofen may pass into breast milk when used topically, but this is unlikely to harm your baby when used as directed on small areas. However, avoid applying the gel to the chest area if breastfeeding, and consult your PillSorted pharmacist if you have any concerns.
Alcohol
There are no specific restrictions regarding alcohol consumption while using ibuprofen gel, as systemic absorption is minimal when used as directed. However, if you are using the gel for an injury, be aware that alcohol may impair your judgment and increase the risk of further injury.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Ibuprofen gel does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery when used as directed. However, ensure that any underlying condition causing pain does not impair your ability to drive safely.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C. Do not freeze. Keep out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the packaging. Once opened, use within the timeframe specified on the packaging, typically within 6 months. Always replace the cap tightly after use to prevent the gel from drying out.
Important Information
All medicines can have side effects. Sometimes they are serious but most of the time they are not. Do not be alarmed by the list of possible side effects. You may not experience any of them. Ask your PillSorted pharmacist to answer any questions you may have.
If any of the following happen, stop taking the medicine and tell your pharmacist immediately or go to the Accident and Emergency department at your nearest hospital:
- Allergic reactions including swelling of the face, lips or tongue which may cause difficulty in swallowing or breathing
These are very serious side effects. If you have them, you may have had a serious allergic reaction to the medicine. You may need urgent medical attention or hospitalisation.
Patient Information Leaflet
For complete information about this medicine, please refer to the patient information leaflet included in the packaging. You can also find detailed information on the Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC) website and the NHS website’s ibuprofen information page.
Reviewer Information
Reviewed by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC: 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC: 9011258). Last reviewed: April 2026.
| Brand | Generic |
|---|---|
| Class | Pharmacy Medicine |
