Best OTC Drugs 2024

Best OTC Choices in Topical Analgesics, Arthritis/Joint Pain

Some over-the-counter treatments, applied topically, provide relief from the pain and discomfort of arthritis and joint pain. Here are Money’s picks for the best over-the-counter arthritis and joint pain topical analgesics.

The selections were identified by drugs.com, using a methodology that combines expert assessment with analysis of online reviews, ratings and other customer data.

The information provided on Money.com is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The products featured may not be right for everyone and may carry risk even if available without a prescription. Read the product’s label and consult with a professional for individual medical advice.

Slide Table to Compare
Rank
Medication
Active Ingredients
Important Points
#7
Australian Dream Arthritis Pain Relief Cream Histamine dihydrochloride
  • Safe for people 12 years and older
  • Can use up to 4 times a day
#4
Bengay Ultra Strength Cream Camphor Menthol Methyl salicylate
  • Safe for people 12 years and older
  • Can use up to 4 times a day
#2
Biofreeze Pain Relief Gel Menthol
  • Fast-acting
  • Safe for people 2 years and older
  • Can apply up to 4 times a day
#5
Blue-Emu Arthritis Cream Trolamine salicylate
  • Fast-acting
  • Odor-free
  • Safe for people 12 years and older
#3
Icy Hot Advanced Relief Pain Relief Cream Camphor Menthol
  • Safe for people 12 years and older
  • Can use up to 4 times a day
  • Non-greasy
  • Fast-acting
#10
Outback All-Natural Pain Relief Oil Eucalyptus polybractea leaf oil Tea tree leaf oil Olive fruit oil Vanilla planifolia fruit extract
  • Preservtive-free
  • Roll-on
  • Can use up to 4 times a day
#6
Penetrex Pain Relief Cream Arnica montana Methylsulfonylmethane
  • Non-greasy
  • Disappearing scent
#9
Real Time Pain Relief Maxx Menthol
  • Safe for people 2 years and older
  • Can apply up to 4 times a day
  • Relieves minor pain
#8
Tiger Balm Arthritis Rub Camphor Menthol
  • Alcohol-free
  • Fast-acting
  • Easy-to-use pump
#1
Voltaren Gel Diclofenac
  • Can use up to 2 body areas at the same time
  • Can take up to 7 days to work
No results match.
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Featured drugs are available without a prescription in the U.S. and may not be available with or without a prescription in other locations.