Lidocaine 5% plasters (also known as lidocaine patch 5 percent) are a topical analgesic designed to provide localized relief for neuropathic pain. They work by numbing the affected area through targeted delivery of lidocaine, a local anesthetic, without significant systemic absorption. These plasters are particularly useful for conditions like post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), diabetic neuropathy, post-surgical nerve pain, and scar-related discomfort. Their adhesive design ensures prolonged contact with the skin, offering sustained pain relief while minimizing side effects associated with oral medications.
Key Points Explained:
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Primary Purpose: Localized Neuropathic Pain Relief
- Lidocaine 5% plasters are specifically formulated to treat peripheral neuropathic pain, such as:
- Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) – nerve pain following shingles.
- Painful diabetic neuropathy – nerve damage due to diabetes.
- Post-surgical nerve pain or trauma-related nerve injuries.
- Scar pain from surgical incisions or burns.
- The plaster delivers lidocaine directly to the painful area, blocking sodium channels in nerve endings to reduce pain signals.
- Lidocaine 5% plasters are specifically formulated to treat peripheral neuropathic pain, such as:
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Mechanism of Action: Targeted Topical Delivery
- Unlike oral pain medications, the plaster minimizes systemic exposure, reducing risks like drowsiness or gastrointestinal issues.
- The 5% lidocaine concentration ensures effective numbing without requiring high doses.
- The adhesive layer allows for up to 12 hours of continuous application, with studies showing improved pain scores and patient satisfaction.
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Clinical Applications and Flexibility
- Used as monotherapy for mild-to-moderate localized pain or as an adjunct to oral medications (e.g., gabapentin) for severe cases.
- Particularly beneficial for elderly patients or those with medication sensitivities, as it avoids liver metabolism and drug interactions.
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Advantages Over Systemic Treatments
- Fewer systemic side effects (e.g., no risk of addiction, unlike opioids).
- Non-invasive and easy to apply, improving adherence compared to oral regimens.
- Suitable for long-term use in chronic conditions like PHN or diabetic neuropathy.
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Patient-Centric Benefits
- Improves daily functioning by reducing pain during movement or touch (allodynia).
- Studies report high patient satisfaction due to its localized effect and minimal downtime.
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Considerations for Purchasers
- Cost-effectiveness: While unit costs may be higher than oral generics, reduced side effects can lower overall healthcare expenses.
- Storage and handling: Plasters require room-temperature storage and intact skin for application.
- Insurance coverage: Often preferred for PHN due to FDA approval, but coverage may vary for off-label uses (e.g., scar pain).
These plasters exemplify how targeted drug delivery can enhance quality of life for patients with chronic pain, blending innovation with practical clinical utility.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Targeted Pain Relief | Blocks nerve signals in specific areas without systemic side effects. |
| 12-Hour Adhesion | Prolonged pain relief with a single application. |
| Non-Addictive | Safer alternative to opioids for chronic pain management. |
| Elderly-Friendly | Avoids liver metabolism, ideal for patients with medication sensitivities. |
| Cost-Effective | Reduces long-term healthcare costs by minimizing complications. |
Need reliable, high-quality lidocaine plasters for your patients or distribution network?
At Enokon, we specialize in bulk manufacturing of FDA-compliant transdermal pain relief patches, including lidocaine 5% plasters. Our expertise in custom R&D ensures formulations tailored to your clinical or commercial needs.
✅ Bulk supply for distributors & brands
✅ Customizable adhesive strength & release profiles
✅ Strict quality control for consistent dosing
Contact our team today to discuss partnership opportunities or request samples!
