PAIN-TOPICAL ANALGESIA

SUMMARY

1. Lidocaine 5% patch: indicated for postherpetic neuralgia, acts peripherally by blocking sodium channels.

2. Topical doxepine & amitriptyline: neuropathic pain states.

3. Topical capsaicin: desensitizes nociceptors. Uses: diabetic peripheral neuropathy, HIV-associated neuropathic pain, and painful distal polyneuropathy.

4. Topical NSAIDs.

5. Compounding pharmacies can serve a unique service in providing customized compounding of various creams and gels for topical use, including ketamine, gabapentin, cyclobenzaprine, and various NSAIDs.

Reference(s)

Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.