Pain relief patches – advantages, disadvantages, types. Which painkillers should I choose?

Pain relief patches contain an active ingredient to relieve pain. The most commonly used substance is diclofenac from the family of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Pain relief patches – benefits

Pain relief patches are an alternative to traditional drugs in the form of tablets or capsules taken orally. Thanks to the transdermal application (the drug penetrates the body through the skin), there is a much lower risk of various common side effects. Pain relief patches also burden the body much less than is the case with drugs taken in the form of tablets. You do not need to plan special meals to protect the digestive system against the effects of taking the drug, you do not even need to drink the drug with water.

Another advantage of painkillers is the constant application, thanks to which the proper concentration of the analgesic substance is maintained for a long time.

Also read: A patch for migraine?

Pain relief patches – disadvantages

There are many advantages of painkillers, but this way of using drugs can also cause some inconvenience. The most common are skin irritations around the patch. They can cause an allergic reaction to diclofenac itself or one of its accompanying substances. It happens, however, that sensitive skin reacts badly to the very form of painkillers, the surface of which does not provide adequate ventilation. This type of treatment is not recommended for people suffering from atopic dermatitis.

Also, allergy sufferers should consult their specialist for painkillers. Another classic contraindication to the use of painkillers is a large amount of fatty tissue under the skin. In the case of obese people, this form of painkillers application is likely to be ineffective.

We use painkillers in case of long-lasting pain in muscles and joints of moderate intensity, as well as in contusions and mechanical injuries. Remember that painkillers are never applied to open wounds. It should also be remembered that painkillers are not applied under an airtight occlusive (airtight) dressing.

If you develop a skin rash after using a painkiller patch, stop treatment as soon as possible. In addition, you should not forget to protect the places where the patch was applied from direct sunlight and sunbeds, at least one day after its removal (reducing the risk of photosensitivity).

Feeling warm or vice versa – cold. Depending on what type of injury you are dealing with, it is worth reaching for the appropriate type of painkiller.

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Pain relief patches – warming up

In the case of pain in the lower, lumbar part of the spine, we most often dream of a warm compress. Persistent pain brings great discomfort and irritation. A painkiller plaster, which additionally warms the skin, thanks to the content of peppercorn extract or hot pepper (capsaicin), may be a good solution. Plant ingredients will improve blood circulation in the skin, thanks to which the active substance will work faster, and we will feel pleasant warmth around the patch.

Thanks to the addition of capsaicin, the patch combines warming and analgesic properties, helping with pains, not only in the spine, bone and joint pains. Such patches sometimes also contain substances such as: glycol salicylate, thymol, menthol or camphor. It is worth noting that there are also patches on the market that contain much more capsaicin than the norm and are prescribed by a doctor in the case of pain caused by diseases of the peripheral nerves (neuropathies).

If the feeling of warming is not accompanied by a burning sensation and itching, the patches can be left on the skin for up to 48 hours. Appropriate perforation of the surface will provide the skin with adequate ventilation.

In the case of anti-inflammatory effects, such patches (anti-inflammatory patches) are most often used for back and back pain, as well as for neck and shoulder pain, especially if we have a problem with diseased joints. The composition of anti-inflammatory patches includes powdered iron, which, after the patch is applied, undergoes slow oxidation, which generates heat and gradually warms up the patch (and the skin under it). However, it should be added that the composition of the patches does not contain typical painkillers, so it is better to consult a pharmacist or read the description on the packaging carefully before using them. Such patches, thanks to their action, are an ideal alternative to popular hot water bottles and additionally do not interfere with everyday functioning.

However, it should be borne in mind that these patches can heat up to about 50 degrees Celsius and therefore can burn, so they must not be used while sleeping or in patients who will not be able to remove the patch if it gets too warm. It’s good to know that pain relief patches can be applied to cotton clothes that are in direct contact with the skin.

Removing the patch should be preceded by a warm bath, which will facilitate painless removal, which may be important in the case of long-term use.

Find out more: The patch of the future. A revolutionary invention of scientists

Pain reliever patches – healing

Medicinal pain relieving patches contain drugs with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which penetrate from the patch into the subcutaneous tissue at the site of application and relieve pain there. In the case of pain resulting from bruises, sprains or contusions, the clinic patches are suitable for shorter use than those previously mentioned (about 7 days). If the pain persists after this time, see your doctor.

It should also be added that these patches should not be used by people who are allergic to aspirin and other painkillers.

Pain relief patches – cooling

Pain relief patches are also available in a cooling version. Transdermal administration of substances from the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is in this case supported by, for example, menthol, which causes a feeling of coolness on the skin. Their task is to alleviate inflammation arising from various types of injuries and contusions.

It is worth applying a cooling painkiller to a bruised knee, the gel coating of which contains soothing substances to prevent swelling and the development of inflammation. Such a patch should be left on the skin for a maximum of 8 hours – during this time the gel will ensure its proper hydration and protect it from chafing. This type of patch also works for headaches and migraines. In addition, it can be used in the event of a fever. To do this, apply a cooling patch to the forehead or neck, and thanks to the menthol content, you will feel a pleasant cooling sensation.

Instead of cooling patches, you can also use the Arnica Active FLOSLEK cooling care gel, which brings relief to tired and sore muscles.

Pain relief patches for athletes

In sport, injuries can occur – everyone who has been systematically practicing in his field for a long time knows it. A warming painkiller patch can be used on a stretched and strained muscle, which will help you regain fitness and active functioning. In the event of an ankle, knee or elbow injury, the application of a cooling painkiller patch will work immediately after the injury, preventing the development of inflammation and relieving swelling and pain.

Are you looking for warming and analgesic preparations? At Medonet Market, you can order a CBD gel for athletes, which can be used to massage muscles and joints after exercise.

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Pain reliever patches with lidocaine and prilocaine

Lidocaine and Prilocaine are substances belonging to the group of local anesthetics and are also used in the form of lozenges and as anesthesia during procedures. These patches may contain various concentrations of these substances and are divided into prescription and over-the-counter preparations.

Patches containing 5% lidocaine are available on prescription and are used for neuropathic pain (caused by damage and malfunction of the sensory nerves), also as a complication in the course of various diseases, such as diabetic neuropathy or after shingles. Over-the-counter patches can be used, for example, before various procedures, to provide yourself with anesthesia during their duration (before puncture or catheterization of the vein).

General effect pain relieving patches

These patches are classified as transdermal patches and contain strong painkillers. However, they contain drugs from the opoid group (most often buprenorphine or fentanyl), therefore they are not only very potent, but also highly addictive.

As a result, these patches are only available with a prescription and reserved for the treatment of severe chronic (continuous) pain. They are prescribed for cancer, but also for severe pain from other diseases, when weaker pain medications do not work.

Pain reliever patches during pregnancy

Painkillers must not be used in women in the third trimester of pregnancy due to the risk of premature closure of the arterial duct in the fetus and inhibition of uterine contractions (and, consequently, delayed labor). In the case of the use of painkillers in the first and second trimester of pregnancy, it is allowed, but only on the express request of the doctor in justified cases, when the specialist considers that they are necessary. It should be added, however, that in the first trimester, which is the most important period of a child’s development, it is recommended to use non-pharmacological methods of coping with pain.

It should also not be forgotten that these patches should also not be used by women who are just planning to become pregnant (or have a problem with getting pregnant). This is due to the adverse effects of NSAIDs on female fertility, although this effect is transient and disappears after discontinuation of therapy.

It should be added that painkillers should only be used as a reliever and thus a short-term solution. If you still have problems after using them, see your doctor as soon as possible.

Find out more: Pregnancy and medications

Pain relief patches while breastfeeding

Pain-relieving patches should also not be used by women during breastfeeding. This is because small amounts of diclofenac and its metabolites penetrate into breast milk.

Pain relief patches – side effects

Depending on the type used, pain relief patches may have side effects. It is a good idea to ask your doctor or pharmacist what symptoms should warrant stopping treatment or seeking medical attention. If you are using a fentanyl patch, your doctor will monitor you carefully during treatment for any serious side effects.

In some cases, the patch may cause slight irritation, redness, blistering or a burning sensation at the application site. These symptoms are usually mild and disappear within a few hours. See your doctor if symptoms are severe or persistent.

Different types of patch have serious side effects.

1. Patches containing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

NSAIDs can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, as well as bleeding in the stomach or elsewhere in the digestive tract. If you experience shortness of breath, slurred speech, nausea, weakness, diarrhea, yellow skin or eyes, indigestion, abdominal pain, bloody vomiting, blood during bowel movements or swelling, see your doctor as soon as possible.

1. Lidocaine patches

Side effects of the lidocaine patch may include allergic reactions such as hives, skin rash, itching, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, swelling, hoarseness, rapid pulse, rapid breathing, unusual thirst, nausea, vomiting, confusion, weakness, dizziness or loss of consciousness. Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness, nervousness, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, convulsions or tremors, slow heartbeat, or loss of consciousness.

1. Fentanyl patches

Fentanyl patch can cause serious side effects such as changes in heartbeat, agitation, hallucinations, fever, sweating, severe muscle stiffness or twitching, hives, swelling, hoarseness, and difficulty breathing or swallowing. You may need to prepare a rescue medication called naloxone in case of overdose while using the fentanyl patches. Symptoms of overdose include difficulty breathing, extreme drowsiness, difficulty speaking, difficulty walking, small eye pupils, fainting, dizziness and loss of consciousness.

If you experience any serious side effects or signs of overdosing with any medication, remove the patch and call an ambulance service.

However, you should always follow the recommendations contained in the leaflet attached to the preparation. Pain relief patches are a medical product and can cause various side effects, the risk of which is increased if used incorrectly.

Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health. Do you need a medical consultation or an e-prescription? Go to halodoctor.pl, where you will get online help – quickly, safely and without leaving your home. Now you can use e-consultation also free of charge under the National Health Fund.