Transdermal analgesic patch

Transdermal analgesic patch is a medicated adhesive patch designed to deliver a specific dose of medication through the skin and into the bloodstream. Often, this promotes healing to an injured area of the body. An advantage of a transdermal drug delivery route over other types of medication delivery such as oral, topical, intravenous, intramuscular, etc. is that the patch provides a controlled release of the medication into the patient, usually through either a porous membrane covering a reservoir of medication or through body heat melting thin layers of medication embedded in the adhesive.

Mechanism of Action

The active ingredient in the patch is absorbed through the skin, entering the bloodstream. This allows the medication to be delivered over a long period of time, typically ranging from 12 to 72 hours. The medication then exerts its therapeutic effects through various mechanisms, depending on the specific drug used.

Types of Transdermal Analgesic Patches

There are several types of transdermal analgesic patches available, including Lidocaine patches, Fentanyl patches, and Diclofenac patches. Each of these patches contains a different active ingredient that provides pain relief.

Lidocaine Patches

Lidocaine patches are used to relieve the pain of post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), the pain following shingles. Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that works by causing temporary numbness in the area where you apply the patch.

Fentanyl Patches

Fentanyl patches are used to relieve severe pain in people who are expected to need pain medication around the clock for a long time and who cannot be treated with other medications. Fentanyl is in a class of medications called opiate (narcotic) analgesics. It works by changing the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain.

Diclofenac Patches

Diclofenac patches are used to relieve pain from various conditions. Diclofenac is known as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It works by blocking your body's production of certain natural substances that cause inflammation, thereby reducing swelling and pain.

Side Effects

Like all medications, transdermal analgesic patches can cause side effects. These can include skin irritation, redness, itching, and rash at the application site. Systemic side effects can also occur, depending on the medication used.

See Also

• Pain management
• Analgesic
• Transdermal patch
• Pharmacology