Muscle Pain and Sprains in Thailand: what to buy at the pharmacy
Sore muscles from Muay Thai or hiking, a twisted ankle, bruises from a scooter fall.
Have a fever? Don't take ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory tablets until dengue is ruled out. Gels on the skin are fine.
What to ask for first
Ketoprofen 2.5% gel
Rub on the sore area 2–3 times a day.
Keep treated skin out of the sun while using it and for 2 weeks after; it can cause a sun rash. Wash your hands after use.
See all 3 medicine options and real pack photos in the Mai Sabai app.
Open the appFree to try. Full guide: ฿79 once, for your whole trip.Look after yourself
- First 2 days: rest, ice wrapped in a cloth for 15 minutes, a firm bandage, and keep it raised.
- No heat, massage or alcohol for the first 48 hours.
- Start gentle movement once the pain allows.
See a doctor today if
- Can't put weight on the leg or walk 4 steps
- The joint looks bent or out of place
- Numbness, tingling, or a cold, pale hand or foot
- Hit your head, or neck or back pain after a fall
- Severe swelling that keeps getting worse
Show this screen to the pharmacist
สวัสดีครับ/ค่ะ ฉันมีอาการปวดกล้ามเนื้อ ข้อเท้าพลิก
ขอยาสำหรับอาการนี้
Hello, I have: muscle pain & sprains. I'd like medicine for this.
Do I need a prescription?
Not for the medicines on this page. Thai pharmacies sell them over the counter, and the pharmacist on duty can advise you. Always mention allergies, pregnancy and any other medicines you take.
Other symptoms
- Cold & feverRunny or blocked nose, sneezing, mild fever.
- Sore throatScratchy or painful throat, hurts to swallow.
- Dry coughTickly cough without phlegm, often worse at night.
- Cough & phlegmChesty cough with mucus.
- DiarrheaLoose or watery stools, stomach cramps.
- Heartburn & stomach acheBurning chest after spicy food, indigestion, bloating or cramps.
- Nausea & vomitingFeeling sick or throwing up, often from food poisoning.
- Allergy, itch & bitesSneezing and itchy eyes, hives, or itchy mosquito and insect bites.
- Cuts & scrapesGrazes, small cuts, scooter scrapes (the 'Thai tattoo').
- Ear pain & blocked earPainful ear after swimming or diving, or an ear that feels blocked.
- Dizziness & seasicknessNausea on ferries, speedboats or winding roads, or the room spinning when you turn your head.
Emergency numbers in Thailand
- 1669Ambulance / medical emergency
- 1155Tourist Police (English)
- 191Police
General information for minor illness in healthy adults, not a diagnosis. Read the pack label, tell the pharmacist about other medicines you take, and see a doctor if you're not better in 2–3 days. Brand names are hidden on pack photos; the same medicine may come in different packs.