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Home > Drug Category > Pain Medications > Arnicare and Equivalent

Arnicare Information

Arnicare (Pain Relief) is used to treat osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. It is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage within a joint begins to break down and the underlying bone changes. Osteoarthritis is most common in the hands, hips, and knees. Symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain, stiffness, decreased range of motion, and swelling. Arnicare also temporarily relieves muscle pain and stiffness due to overexertion, minor injuries, and falls. The drug also reduces pain, discoloration, and swelling from bruises. Arnicare contains Arnica montana, a plant used for medicinal purposes. The drug is often used topically as a cream or gel. In some cases, the drug is used in homeopathic preparations for oral use. The solutions are extremely diluted and safe for internal use. Pain medications like Arnicare inhibit the production of chemicals called cyclo-oxygenase (COX) enzymes. COX enzymes help make prostaglandins, which are commonly found at injury sites. Arnicare seems to work by reducing swelling and decreasing pain in affected areas.

Arnicare Side Effects

The most common side effects of Arnicare may include vomiting; nausea; abdominal pain; dry skin with itchy bumps; dizziness; Call your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects such as:
• Fast heartbeat;
• Peeling skin or blisters;
• Severe diarrhea;
• Severe vomiting;
• Signs of a serious allergic reaction, e.g., abdominal cramps, swelling of the face and throat, difficulty breathing, nausea and vomiting;
• Swelling around the application site

Arnicare Precautions

Do not use Arnicare if you are allergic to Arnica or any other ingredients in this medication. Before you start taking this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, including if you are sensitive to ragweed marigolds, daisies, chrysanthemums, and other members of the Asteraceae/Compositae family; have broken skin; have a scheduled surgery; have high blood pressure; are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan to become pregnant; are breastfeeding or are planning to breastfeed. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Arnicare and other medications. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Arnicare may be unsafe for use in pregnancy. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Avoid applying Arnicare to the skin when breastfeeding. Arnicare gel is for external use only. Avoid contact with the eyes, mucous membranes, damaged skin, or wounds. Use Arnicare only as prescribed by your doctor. Apply a thin layer of the gel to the affected area and massage gently. Repeat as needed. Do not bandage the application site tightly or use a heating pad. If your condition worsens or your symptoms persist after 7 days, stop use and contact your doctor. Arnicare gel is for topical use. Do not swallow. Store at 68 – 770F (20-250C)

Do I need a prescription to order Arnicare?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Arnicare.