Topical Ibuprofen/Naproxen

Effective Use of Topical Ibuprofen or The Power of Topical Pain Relief: A New Approach

This protocol involves preparing potent ibuprofen or naproxen topical gels for personal use at home. It’s a tribute to my former 85-year-old neighbor Laurie, who suffered from crippling arthritis due to the high cost of modern anti-inflammatory drugs.

The Rise and Fall of Cox-2 Inhibitors

Cox-2 inhibitors like Celebrex and Vioxx were once considered breakthrough medications for conditions like arthritis and migraines. These drugs became very popular, generating billions in sales. However, in September 2004, Merck recalled Vioxx after evidence emerged that it increased the risk of heart attacks and strokes, especially in long-term users.

Although these drugs didn’t upset the stomach like other NSAIDs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, they had severe side effects, including cardiovascular issues. Celebrex, still available today, remains under scrutiny.

Why Topical Gels Are Superior

In Europe, where Cox-2 inhibitors were never as popular, topical anti-inflammatory agents like ibuprofen gels have been widely available for years. These gels offer the same pain relief but without systemic side effects, as they are applied directly to the skin and don’t enter the bloodstream.

Advantages of Topical Ibuprofen Gels

Topical ibuprofen gels are more effective than oral forms because they target the pain directly. They remain in the body longer and are less likely to cause gastrointestinal or cardiovascular problems. Research shows that topical NSAIDs are safer, with no systemic side effects, compared to oral versions, which often cause ulcers and bleeding in the stomach.

A Better Solution for Arthritis and Muscle Pain

The US has been slow to adopt these gels, mainly due to a lack of awareness among physicians and a reliance on prescription-only products. Yet, in Europe, these gels are often available over the counter and cost a fraction of what one would pay for oral NSAIDs or Cox-2 inhibitors.

In the US, a better approach would be to make topical ibuprofen or naproxen gels available without a prescription, giving people an affordable, safer option for pain management.

How to Make Your Own Topical Pain Relievers

If you want to make your own topical pain relievers at home, it’s simple and cost-effective. Here’s how to prepare your own ibuprofen or naproxen gel:

What You’ll Need:

• Isopropyl alcohol (preferably 99% or 91%)
• Generic ibuprofen or naproxen (200-250 mg pills)
• Aloe vera gel (with or without vitamin E)
• Orange peel oil (or d-limonene)
• Small plastic squeeze bottle or glass container

Preparation Steps:

1. Grind the Ibuprofen/Naproxen: Use a mini-food processor to grind the pills into a fine powder.
2. Prepare the Alcohol Solution: Add the powder to a glass container and pour in the isopropyl alcohol. Shake every few hours.
3. Add the Orange Oil: Add a few dropper loads of orange peel oil to enhance absorption.
4. Mix in Aloe Vera Gel: Carefully add aloe vera gel, ensuring the mixture remains smooth without excess water.
5. Final Mixing: Pour the mixture into a squeeze bottle, shake, and it’s ready to use.

Apply directly to painful areas, massaging it in well for fast relief.

Safety and Effectiveness

These homemade gels are highly effective and long-lasting, relieving arthritis and muscle pain. Be cautious when using the gel, as overuse or excessive amounts of orange oil could cause temporary skin irritation. If this happens, reduce the concentration or substitute with menthol.

Real-World Success Stories

Many people have benefited from this simple, homemade solution. Some even make large batches and share them with friends and family, providing relief where expensive medications fail.

A testimonial from 2002 perfectly sums up the impact:
“This cream is a miracle. After years of chronic back pain and several surgeries, I finally found relief for less than $10.”

A More Accessible Option

This simple and powerful topical pain relief solution shows that effective treatments don’t have to be expensive or have harmful side effects. Anyone can prepare it at home with minimal cost and effort, proving that good medicine doesn’t have to break the bank.