TOP 10 best remedies for lower back pain, choosing the most effective

Low back pain can occur in every person due to excessive physical exertion, age-related changes in the body and a number of other reasons. If literally ten to twenty years ago most elderly people suffered from radiculitis and osteochondrosis, today a similar disease is increasingly common among young people. This may be due to a sedentary lifestyle, regular stress and poor diet.

You can fight this disease with the help of special means - they are found in specialized health stores and pharmacies. Experts recommend using topical formulations, since they are the most effective and safe, since they are practically not absorbed into the human blood. However, the question arises: how to choose the right product? Today we will try to answer it in our ranking of the best remedies for lower back pain. Here we will consider in detail the composition and principle of operation of each composition.

When we chose products to include in the review, we were guided mainly by user reviews and the price-quality ratio of the product. I would also like to note that this article is not a call to buy the product you like; it is advisable to first consult with your doctor, who will definitely be able to determine whether such a product is suitable for you or whether you should give preference to another.

Top 10 pain relieving ointments for the lower back.

September 6, 2021
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Content

• Why does my back hurt?
• How to choose an ointment for the lower back
• Contraindications and side effects of ointments for the lower back
• Top 10 ointments for the lower back
• Nicoflex
• Shungite
• Nurofen Express
• Nayatoks
• Apizartron
• Voltaren Emulgel
• Finalgon
• Capsicam
• Viprosal B
• Nise

The main method of treating diseases of the musculoskeletal system is medication, usually aimed at relieving inflammation and pain. Local medications for back pain (ointments and gels) are practically not absorbed into the blood and have a minimum of side effects and contraindications, unlike tablets and injections. Therefore, back ointment can be used for a long time.

Why does my back hurt?

To find out the cause of back pain, you need, of course, a full diagnosis and consultation with a doctor. Only an accurate diagnosis allows adequate treatment of low back pain. The most common causes of back pain:

• osteochondrosis;
• muscle strain or injury;
• muscle imbalance, scoliosis;
• protrusion or hernia;
• radicular syndrome;
• spondyloarthrosis;
• congenital problems with the development of the spine;
• radiculitis, sciatica, lumbago, myofascial syndrome.

All of these causes of back pain require the use of painkillers (especially during periods of exacerbation).

How to choose an ointment for the lower back

Before you run to the pharmacy for ointment or gel for back pain, you need to know what these drugs are and for what problem you should choose one or the other. If you have back pain after an injury or due to rheumatism, both warming and cooling ointments are suitable.

If back pain has recently begun to bother you, the pain is acute, warming ointments cannot be used - such preparations contain irritating substances that provoke skin hyperemia. This heating stimulates blood circulation in the muscle or joint, which helps to recover. Warming ointments can only be used during rehabilitation, when there is no acute pain and the patient feels better.

The use of a warming ointment during an acute period can only provoke a worsening of the condition. Redness and swelling are possible, and the inflammatory process may worsen. If there is a fresh back injury, you can only use cooling or pain-relieving ointments (with NSAIDs, mint or menthol). Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs relieve inflammation well, and mint or menthol remove swelling.

Contraindications and side effects of ointments for the lower back

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in tablet form have many side effects: they are toxic, have a bad effect on the kidneys, liver, stomach, and hemostatic function. That is why tablets and injections for back pain are prescribed only in extreme cases and for a short course. But ointments for back pain can be used for a relatively long time, but, of course, not constantly either. A small part of the drug still enters the blood through the skin, which can negatively affect overall well-being during long-term treatment.

Among the contraindications for use

back ointments:

• individual intolerance to the active substance of the drug or its auxiliary components;
• open wounds on the skin, inflammation or suppuration in the places where you plan to apply the back cream;
• allergy to NSAIDs, acetylsalicylic acid;
• age up to 14 years;
• pregnancy (third trimester).

In these cases, ointment for back pain is prescribed with caution:

• first and second trimester of pregnancy;
• severe kidney or liver damage;
• history of gastritis or ulcer;
• nasal polyps, rhinitis, bronchial asthma;
• lactation. Possible side effects
  from lower back ointments:
• stomach pain, gastritis;
• skin redness, dermatosis, urticaria, itching;
• anaphylaxis, Quincke's edema (in very rare cases). Read also: Choosing chondroprotectors for joints What are chondroprotectors, what active substances they contain and what they treat.

Table 1 Recommendations for the prevention of complications associated with taking NSAIDs

Another drug that has a sufficient gastroprotective effect is the synthetic prostaglandin E1 - misoprostol, but its use is limited by its high cost.

The protective effect of the H2-histamine receptor antagonist, famotidine, has been proven only in combination with ibuprofen. A combination drug was created, which is currently not available in Russia. However, both of its components can be purchased and taken separately. They are affordable.

It is necessary to inform the patient that even despite intense back pain, his health is not in danger. The vast majority of patients have a favorable prognosis: within 3 months, more than 90% of patients do not seek medical help again.

Less significant are complications from the urinary and central nervous systems, hepatotoxic effects of drugs:

Adverse events from the urinary system

All NSAIDs can have nephrotoxic effects. When taking drugs of this group, the following types of complications may develop: Development of acute renal failure due to spasm of renal vessels. Other mechanisms of organ damage are also possible. NSAIDs cause a moderate increase in arterial hypertension, reduce the effectiveness of antihypertensive drugs, and can cause electrolyte disturbances (hyperkalemia, hyponatremia and edema). Taking NSAIDs is associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer.

Adverse events from the cardiovascular system

All NSAIDs, both selective and non-selective, increase the risk of developing cardiovascular complications: clinical manifestations of coronary heart disease, heart failure, increased blood pressure, and the development of atrial fibrillation. Naproxen has the lowest risk of developing complications from the cardiovascular system. (Daniel H Solomon, MD, 2015). NSAIDs interact with all classes of antihypertensive drugs except calcium antagonists, reducing their effectiveness. Their use may increase blood pressure in patients (White WB. 2007). Safety issues are more relevant for patients with a high risk of cardiovascular complications (old age, long-term hypertension, constant use of antihypertensive drugs, diabetes mellitus); in patients with a low risk, they do not limit the use of drugs in this group.

Adverse events from the blood system

Neutropenia is a rare complication of taking NSAIDs and develops in less than 1% of patients; no risk factors for the development of this condition or association with taking individual drugs from this group have been established. The antiplatelet effect is associated with inhibition of COX-1, which leads to a decrease in the production of thromboxane A2. It is necessary to avoid taking NSAIDs in patients with thrombocytopenia (less than 50 x 109/l). Before surgery, drugs should be discontinued within 3-5 half-life periods. For most NSAIDs, the antiplatelet effect disappears 3 days after discontinuation. The antiplatelet effect of ibuprofen is eliminated 24 hours after discontinuation of the drug. Highly selective COX-2 inhibitors have little effect on platelet hemostasis. Concomitant use of NSAIDs and aspirin may reduce the antiplatelet effect of the latter. Interaction with warfarin leads to a significant increase in INR when taken simultaneously. More frequent monitoring of the indicator is required.

Allergic and pseudoallergic reactions

Pseudoallergic reactions associated with inhibition of COX-1 can be caused by taking aspirin and all (“crossover”) NSAIDs that inhibit COX-1: Piroxicam, Indomethacin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Ketoprofen, Diclofenac, Ketoralac, and less commonly, drugs with weakly expressed properties of COX inhibitors -1 — paracetamol; and even less often when using drugs that selectively inhibit COX-2, nimesulide, coxibs, oxicams; a dose-dependent effect was noted for these drugs. Allergic reactions to NSAIDs develop in the form of angioedema, urticaria or anaphylaxis. Cross-reactions to drugs with similar chemical structures are possible. If pseudo-allergic and allergic reactions to any of the NSAIDs develop, it is necessary to avoid taking all drugs in this group; as an alternative, use paracetamol in a single dose of no more than 650 mg.

Adverse effects from the respiratory system

When taking aspirin and other non-selective COX-1 blockers, it is possible to develop bronchospasm, decompensation of bronchial asthma and other obstructive bronchial lesions of inflammatory origin.

Adverse events from the hepato-biliary system

Cases of liver failure when taking NSAIDs are quite rare (3.7 per 100,000 patients taking drugs of this group). Transient slight increases in the activity of liver enzymes (less than 3 upper limits of normal) are not prognostic signs of the development of acute liver failure associated with the action of NSAIDs. Ibuprofen is the safest NSAID and has not shown severe liver damage in large studies. Along with paracetamol and aspirin, the drug is one of the best-selling over-the-counter drugs in the world. Newer NSAIDs, selective COX-2 inhibitors, oxycams and coxibs have a relatively low risk of toxicity. In rare cases, piroxicam can cause severe liver damage.

The drug Nimesulide was withdrawn from sale in a number of countries (Japan, Finland, Turkey, Israel, India, Sri Lanka, and later Ireland), and was never put on sale in the USA and Great Britain, due to a pronounced hepatotoxic effect in a series of clinical observations , however, various epidemiological studies do not confirm this information.

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) recommends only short-term use of the drug (15 days), at a dose not exceeding 200 mg/day (100 mg x 2 times a day) in adults. Taking into account all the data obtained, the Agency believes that the potential benefits of the drug, subject to restrictions, outweigh the potential risks.

The economic feasibility of monitoring liver enzyme activity in patients taking NSAIDs has not been established.

In case of an increase in activity by more than 3 times compared to the upper limit of normal, a decrease in the concentration of serum albumin, or an increase in INR, it is necessary to assume the hepatotoxic effect of NSAIDs.

Adverse skin effects

The risk of developing toxic epidermal necrolysis and Stevens-Johnson syndrome (malignant exudative erythema) when taking NSAIDs is 1 in 100,000. The highest risk is when taking piroxicam, the lowest is when taking diclofenac and ibuprofen.

Adverse effects from the nervous system

Elderly patients taking NSAIDs, especially indomethacin, may experience worsening cognitive impairment and the development of psychosis. Taking ibuprofen and naproxen is associated with the development of aseptic meningitis. In a small proportion of patients, taking NSAIDs is accompanied by the development of tinnitus. The complication is reversible after discontinuation of the drugs.

Nicoflex

Nicoflex ointment for the lower back stimulates blood circulation, has a warming effect, and copes well with pain symptoms. The active ingredients of Nikoflex are capsaicin, ethyl nicotinate and ethylene glycol salicylate. Ointment for back pain warms up and irritates the painful area of ​​the body - the inflammatory process is reduced due to increased blood circulation. "Nikoflex" restores mobility to the joints and lower back, is quickly absorbed without a greasy residue. The back ointment has a neutral odor, and the burning sensation after application lasts literally two minutes.

Nicoflex

Reanal, Hungary

- bruises;
- sprains; - arthrosis; - myalgia; - neuralgia; - chronic neuritis; — polyarthritis (chronic and subacute); - sciatica; — tendovaginitis (in the phase of incomplete remission); - to warm up muscles before and after sports. from 251

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Shungite

This cream-balm contains many medicinal extracts that do an excellent job with myalgia. The main active ingredients of “Shungit” are ginseng, wormwood, St. John’s wort, aloe, and shungite. Shungite cream improves the body's functional abilities, is perfectly absorbed and does not leave stickiness on the skin. This ointment for lower back pain is prescribed for acute joint pain, muscle pain and lower back pain. Shungite helps relieve swelling, inflammation and pain, soothes and improves blood circulation in joints and periarticular tissues. Shungite lower back cream allows you to quickly recover from injuries, is not addictive and has no side effects.

Shungite Cream Balm

Fora-Pharm LLC, Russia

Use in complex treatment of osteochondrosis, radiculitis, arthritis and arthrosis of various origins and in places where salts are deposited, in combination with traditional methods of treatment, as an adjuvant.
from 75

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Unitro Derm Aqua hydrophobic KPE304

The medicine is intended as protection against water-soluble harmful substances. This includes solutions of alkalis, acids from salts, cement mortar, lime and other water-based substances. The active components in the composition allow you to quickly relieve inflammation and irritation, and perform a softening and moisturizing function.

Unitro Derm Aqua quickly and deeply penetrates the layers of the epidermis, thereby accelerating the regeneration process. The drug is applied to clean skin before work, the procedure is repeated after each hand washing. When applying, special attention should be paid to the area around the nails and between the fingers.

pros

:

• does not contain artificial dyes or other harmful components;
• absorbs quickly and leaves no marks on clothes;
• does not tighten the skin after application;
• water repellency;
• does not cause an allergic reaction;
• low cost.

Minuses

:

• not detected.

Nurofen Express

Back ointment "Nurofen Express" helps well with osteochondrosis and arthritis. The product perfectly relieves pain, penetrating deep into tissues and fighting inflammation from the inside. Ointment for the lower back for acute pain is recommended to be used four times a day. The drug is suitable for the treatment of joint pain and sprains, the ointment is effective for swelling, neuralgia and injuries. Nurofen Express ointment contains ibuprofen, which relieves inflammation and reduces pain.

Nurofen express gel

Farmasierra Manufacturing SL, Spain

When applied externally, it has an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect.
Reduces morning stiffness and helps increase range of motion in joints. from 133

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Konner KPE406

The main purpose of the drug is protection against sun damage. It is intended for people who work outdoors for a long time in the sun in an industrial environment. With its help, harmful UV radiation (A, B and C types) will not penetrate the human body. The active component of the drug is the probiotic Pro Renew Complex CLR™. It strengthens the epidermal barrier, making the skin more resistant to damage and stress.

In addition, the composition contains chestnut extract, which soothes the damaged area and relieves inflammation. The action of arginine is aimed at skin regeneration.

pros

:

• Can be used on the face;
• affordable price;
• reliable protection against UV radiation;
• does not dry the skin;
• does not cause allergic reactions.

Minuses

:

• narrow spectrum of protection;
• Overpriced considering the features.

Nayatoks

This is a Vietnamese drug based on cobra venom. In addition, it contains camphor, methyl salicylate and eucalyptus oil, which irritate the skin locally and dilate blood vessels, which improves blood circulation. Nayatox ointment is excellent for lower back pain. The drug has a strong smell, but this is not a problem since Nayatox is used once a day at night. If you look for reviews on the Internet about this ointment for the lower back, there are many of them and most are positive. “Nayatox” warms gently, without burning, and at the same time relieves pain and discomfort in the lower back.

Nayatoks

MEKOFAR, Vietnam

Pain syndrome in diseases of the musculoskeletal system: - arthritis of various etiologies;
- neuralgia; - myalgia; - sciatica; - radiculitis. from 100

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Apizartron

Ointment for the lower back "Apizartron" contains bee venom and provides excellent warmth. The active ingredients of the ointment are methyl salicylate (relieves inflammation), allyl isothiocyanate (warms tissues, improving blood circulation), bee venom (analgeses, reduces inflammation, fights infection). Many patients consider this ointment for the lower back to be one of the most effective. But keep in mind that Apizartron ointment can cause an allergic reaction, so we recommend performing a skin test before starting treatment.

Apizartron

Esparma, Germany

Diseases of the musculoskeletal system (osteoarthrosis, rheumatic lesions of soft tissues).
Arthralgia (including rheumatic joint diseases). Myalgia (including those associated with overexertion. Neuralgia (including neuritis, sciatica). Peripheral circulation disorders. Pain syndrome with soft lesions of muscles, tendons, ligaments, bruises and sprains. To warm up the muscles before and during sports loads from 176

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General contraindications

Ointments, gels and patches have general contraindications:

• Violation of the integrity of the skin in the area of ​​application;
• Inflammatory processes on the skin in the area of ​​application;
• Allergic reactions to components of ointments, gels and patches (including excipients, such as the adhesive base of the patch);
• Skin diseases in the area of ​​application (ulcers, rashes);
• Childhood and pregnancy may also be a contraindication for the use of ointments, gels and patches.

The use of local therapy is ineffective for serious pathologies of the spine and spinal cord (tumors, severe injuries, multiple sclerosis, spinal tuberculosis, etc.).

Shpidonov Gennady Stanislavovich

Neurologist

Rostov State Medical University (neurology)

10 years of experience

Voltaren Emulgel

This ointment is usually prescribed for pain in the lower back, joints and muscles. The active substance of the drug is diclofenac, which quickly relieves pain. "Voltaren Emulgel" has a water-alcohol base, is conveniently applied to the skin, is well absorbed and does not leave a greasy feeling. The product perfectly reduces heat in affected areas of the body. To completely get rid of back pain, doctors recommend using Voltaren Emulgel for a course (two to three weeks).

Voltaren emulgel

Novartis Europharm Ltd, UNITED KINGDOM

Voltaren emulgel is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).
It has a pronounced analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effect. from 92

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1. Methyluracil 10% 25 g No. 1

This is the best regenerating cream for the treatment of purulent and weeping wounds. The active component is a non-steroidal antiseptic, thanks to which collagen is produced, the skin is restored, and inflammation is relieved. If the ointment does not produce results with prolonged treatment, you should consult a doctor.

Apply the cream to a clean injury. Purulent formations and dead tissue are first removed from it.

pros

:

• a budget option;
• intended for the treatment of deep wounds;
• when used additionally with other antibiotics, the result will be visible faster;
• acceptable for use from birth.

Minuses

:

• wasteful consumption of contents.

Finalgon

“Finalgon” is a combination drug with a good warming effect, which contains nonivamide and nicoboxil. “Finalgon” dilates blood vessels and anesthetizes, so when applied to the affected area, blood circulation and local metabolism improve, the temperature of the body area increases - all this significantly reduces pain. Finalgon ointment is usually prescribed for lower back pain caused by muscle spasms. Many patients respond very well to Finalgon, although some doctors are confident that its effect is largely distracting and not therapeutic.

Finalgon

Boehringer Ingelheim, Germany

- arthritis;
- arthralgia and myalgia of rheumatic origin; - sports injuries, bruises and damage to the ligamentous apparatus; - myalgia caused by excessive physical activity; - lumbago; - neuritis; - sciatica; - bursitis and tendovaginitis; - acute nonspecific pain in the lower back; - for preliminary “warming up” of muscles before physical exercises, sports competitions; - as part of complex vasodilator therapy for peripheral circulatory disorders. from 246

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Norman derm Normal KPE201

The product is intended for application to any area of ​​the skin. Designed to relieve inflammation, soften the damaged area, as well as retain moisture and restore the epidermal barrier. Due to the absence of dyes or parabens, the product does not cause allergies. Apply the cream to dry skin before bed so that it is better absorbed. This will prevent redness and moisturize the skin well.

pros

:

• low cost;
• does not contain dyes or silicones;
• relieves inflammation, moisturizes and regenerates the skin;
• the product is intended for any skin type (even very sensitive);
• acceptable for any part of the body;
• does not cause allergic reactions.

Minuses

:

• when applied in large quantities, it may not have time to be absorbed and will leave marks on clothing.

Capsicam

The composition of the Kapsicam back ointment includes gum turpentine, dimethyl sulfoxide, racemic camphor, benzyl nicotinate, nonivamide. “Capsicam” warms the affected area well; patients often choose this remedy to treat the lower back if the pain is muscle. If pain occurs due to neuralgia, the effect of Capsicam will be slightly less pronounced. After applying the ointment, a slight warmth appears, and back pain gradually goes away. It is important to rub in no more than 3 grams of ointment at a time. If you overdo it, you can get skin irritation and even a burn. If lower back pain is associated with inflammation, Capsicum is not suitable.

Capsicam

Tallinn HFZ, Estonia

Capsicum has a local irritating, analgesic effect.
Capsicam contains substances that have a vasodilating effect on sensitive nerve endings, as a result of which the ointment exhibits a local irritant and analgesic effect. from 180

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Naftaderm liniment 10% 35 g

The composition contains naftalan oil, which disinfects, relieves itching and inflammation. The product is intended for the treatment of infected skin. If the edges are swollen or the patient has a fever, you should immediately contact a specialist for help. When using, it is important to strictly adhere to the instructions, observe the dosage and duration of treatment.

pros

:

• effective for injuries that heal poorly;
• not capable of causing addiction;
• contains no hormones;
• relieves allergic reaction.

Minuses

:

• can be used from 12 years of age;
• overpriced;
• can cause dry skin.

Viprosal B

Ointment for the lower back with viper venom gently warms the affected area, but at the same time not only effectively relieves negative symptoms, but also heals. The active ingredients of Viprosal B ointment are salicylic acid, camphor, turpentine and viper venom. The important thing is that Viprosal effectively relieves lower back pain caused by various factors (injuries, sprains, neuralgia). Viprosal ointment for the lower back should be used carefully, as with other irritants.

Viprosal in

Tallinn HFZ, Estonia

Locally irritating, analgesic, used topically for joint and muscle pain.
Causes irritation of sensitive receptors of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, dilates blood vessels, improves tissue trophism. from 205

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Nise

The remedy for back pain “Nise” can be bought in tablet form and in gel form. Gel "Nise" perfectly relieves lower back pain caused by various reasons. The active substance of the drug - nimesulide - anesthetizes, relieves inflammation, and has a chondroprotective effect on joints. To relieve back pain, you need to apply Nise 1-2 times a day. A few days after treatment, the lower back pain completely disappears - the drug not only relieves symptoms, but also cures. Nise gel has no side effects. Many doctors say that this is one of the best drugs for treating back and joints.

Nise gel

Pills

Meloxicam

It is produced both in the form of tablets and in the form of ampoules for intramuscular administration. This non-steroidal drug allows you to actively fight inflammatory processes directly in the joints. The drug is characterized by an active anti-inflammatory effect and allows you to get rid of fever by lowering body temperature. It is worth noting that these products, regardless of the form of release, have a low price. The tablets also contain lactose, cellulose, sodium citrate and a number of other components. They have the shape of a flat cylinder and are usually yellow in color. The drug blocks the production of prostaglandins, which are actively synthesized in the inflamed area. The active substance is evenly distributed throughout the tissues of the human body, due to which it is characterized by a prolonged action and penetrates well into the synovial fluid.

The drug prevents lipids from oxidizing and free radicals from forming. It also does not change the structure of cartilage and has a restorative effect. With its help, you can get rid of pain arising from arthritis, rheumatism, reduce the temperature, regardless of the nature of its origin, and also remove inflammatory processes of the infectious type. The best results were observed in the fight against arthritis and arthrosis. Take the tablet once a day with meals, with plenty of liquid.

Advantages:

• Low price with a quick positive effect;
• Several release forms;
• Fights inflammatory processes at the cellular level;
• The effect of the drug is quite long.

Flaws:

• There are a number of serious contraindications and side effects.

Meloxicam

Nimesil

By and large, these are not so much tablets as powder for preparing a suspension, however, in terms of its effectiveness, this product is significantly superior to almost all tablet medications. One sachet contains two grams of granular powder, where nimesulide is the main active compound - 0.1 g of the total mass. In order for the substance to be absorbed much better and faster, maltodextrin, ketomacrogol, sucrose and citric acid are used as additional components. The action of this drug is aimed at relieving pain and inflammation, and it also has excellent antipyretic properties. The active substance inhibits collagenase and metalloprotease, due to which cartilage tissue begins to actively recover. When a patient takes this medicine, the production of histamine decreases - this helps to overcome swelling.

The volume of lithium ions in the blood plasma increases. The drug should not be combined with selective inhibitors, as this may cause bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. The medication is well tolerated throughout the course of treatment. The positive effect is observed within 6 hours. It is allowed to use this drug in case of any pain syndromes, regardless of their origin.

Advantages:

• Before administration, it dissolves in water, resulting in a cloudy whitish suspension with a pleasant orange flavor;
• Used as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic drug;
• Copes well with both the symptoms of joint disease and its cause;
• Quite a long lasting effect.

Flaws:

• Quite expensive;
• There are contraindications and side effects.

Nimesil