The present invention relates to nimesulide topical formulations comprising a carboxyvinylpolymer neutralized as a gel-forming agent or a polyacrylamide-isoparaffin and a solvent selected from the group consisting of ethanol, isopropanol and diethylene glycol monoethyl ether, and to the process for the preparation thereof. Said formulations have advantages such as higher stability of the system and bioavailability of the active ingredient.