Motusol Max 2.32% w/w Diclofenac Gel - 30g

What Is Diclofenac Gel and How Does It Relieve Pain?

Muscle aches, stiff joints, and localised inflammation can make even simple daily tasks feel like a challenge. Motusol Max 2.32% w/w Diclofenac Gel offers targeted, topical relief — applied directly where it hurts, so you're not flooding your whole system with medication. It contains diclofenac diethylammonium as its active ingredient, a well-established non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used widely across the UK for musculoskeletal pain. At just £6.49 for a 30g tube, it's an accessible option for adults managing everyday pain. You can explore our full range of pain relief products if you're looking for additional options alongside this gel.

This gel is classified as a pharmacy (P) medicine in the UK, meaning it's available without a prescription but should be used with care. It's suitable for adults and adolescents aged 14 and over, and it's designed for short-term use on localised areas of the body.

How Does Motusol Max Diclofenac Gel Work in the Body?

Diclofenac gel works by inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes at the site of application. These enzymes are responsible for producing prostaglandins — the chemical messengers that trigger pain, swelling, and inflammation in your tissues. By blocking their production locally, the gel helps reduce discomfort without the need for oral medication.

• Diclofenac penetrates the skin and underlying soft tissue after topical application.
• It inhibits COX enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis at the pain site.
• Inflammation and associated swelling begin to reduce with regular use.
• Systemic absorption is significantly lower than oral NSAIDs, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.

Because the gel acts locally rather than systemically, it's often a preferred choice for people who cannot tolerate oral NSAIDs due to stomach sensitivity.

Who Is Motusol Max Diclofenac Gel Suitable For?

This gel is intended for adults and adolescents aged 14 years and over who are experiencing localised musculoskeletal pain. It's particularly useful for people who want targeted relief without taking tablets. That said, it's not appropriate for everyone — always read the label and check with your pharmacist if you're unsure.

• Adults with muscle strains or sprains from sport or physical activity
• People with localised joint pain, such as knee or shoulder discomfort
• Those who prefer topical treatment over oral pain relief
• Individuals who experience stomach upset with oral NSAIDs

How Does Motusol Max Compare to Other Topical Pain Relief Gels?

How Should You Store Motusol Max Diclofenac Gel?

Store Motusol Max below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the tube tightly closed when not in use, and always keep it out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use the gel after the expiry date printed on the packaging. If you're browsing other topical treatments, our creams and ointments collection includes a range of options for skin and musculoskeletal conditions.

Do not freeze the gel, and avoid storing it in the bathroom where humidity and temperature fluctuations can affect the product's stability.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

What Is Motusol Max Diclofenac Gel and What Is It Used For?

Motusol Max 2.32% w/w Diclofenac Gel is a topical NSAID used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in muscles and joints. It is indicated for the symptomatic relief of localised forms of soft tissue rheumatism, sprains, strains, and sports injuries in adults and adolescents aged 14 and over. The gel is applied directly to the skin over the affected area, allowing the active ingredient to work at the source of pain rather than throughout the body.

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Motusol Max Diclofenac Gel?

Before using this gel, it's important to check whether it's right for you. There are certain situations where you should not use it, and others where extra caution is needed.

Do not use this gel if you:

• Are allergic to diclofenac, aspirin, ibuprofen, or any other NSAID
• Are in the third trimester of pregnancy (weeks 28 onwards)
• Have broken, infected, or inflamed skin at the application site
• Are under 14 years of age
• Have a history of asthma triggered by NSAIDs

Use with caution and speak to your pharmacist if you:

• Are in the first or second trimester of pregnancy or are breastfeeding
• Have kidney, liver, or heart problems
• Are taking anticoagulants such as warfarin
• Have a history of gastrointestinal problems

Known drug interactions:

• Anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin) — systemic absorption is low, but caution is still advised
• Other NSAIDs — avoid concurrent use of oral or topical NSAIDs unless directed by a doctor
• Ciclosporin or methotrexate — diclofenac may affect their plasma levels if absorbed systemically

How Should You Use Motusol Max Diclofenac Gel Correctly?

Always use this gel exactly as directed on the label or as advised by your pharmacist. Do not apply more than instructed, and avoid applying to large areas of skin.

1. Wash and dry the affected area before application.
2. Squeeze a small amount of gel (approximately 2–4g, roughly the size of a 50p coin) onto your fingertips.
3. Gently massage the gel into the skin over the painful area until fully absorbed.
4. Wash your hands thoroughly after application, unless your hands are the area being treated.
5. Do not cover the area with an airtight or occlusive dressing after applying.
6. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Motusol Max Diclofenac Gel?

Like all medicines, this gel can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are localised to the skin at the application site and are mild in nature. If you're managing multiple health concerns, you might also find our first aid collection useful for minor injuries alongside this treatment.

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

• Skin redness or erythema at the application site
• Itching or pruritus
• Dry or flaking skin
• A mild burning or stinging sensation after application

Less common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

• Contact dermatitis or eczema-like reaction
• Localised swelling or oedema
• Photosensitivity — increased sensitivity to sunlight at the treated area
• Rash or urticaria

Serious allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) are rare but possible. Stop using the gel immediately and seek emergency medical help if you experience swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin reaction.

How Should You Store Motusol Max Diclofenac Gel?

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place.
• Do not freeze.
• Keep the tube tightly closed after each use.
• Keep out of the reach and sight of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the tube and carton.
• Do not store in the bathroom or near sources of heat or direct sunlight.
• Dispose of unused medicine responsibly — return to your local pharmacy for safe disposal.

If you're looking for other health products to support your wellbeing, browse our vitamins and supplements collection for options that may complement your recovery.