Topical pain medications have a much lower risk of side effects compared to oral medications because of their low absorption into the blood stream. When applied to an area of injury they provide localized relief without systemic effects. Dizziness, nausea, and drowsiness are all possible symptoms of oral pain medication that can be avoided by using a cream, gel, or spray. For patients with chronic pain conditions this can be especially beneficial as they may already be taking several oral medications.

Depending on the patient and the type of pain being treated, multiple ingredients in different strengths can be made into one cream or gel. Ketoprofen is an NSAID that decreases the sensitivity of pain receptors. NSAIDs are good for treating fibromyalgia pain and osteoarthritis.
 Gabapentin and lidocaine 
are sodium and glutamate blockers that diminish pain transmission in damaged neurons and work well for neuropathic and inflammatory pain.