Topical Pain Gels Can Avoid Systemic Side Effects Of Oral Pain Medications

Topical treatment for arthritis or joint pain can be an important option for you. Topical application of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has several advantages over systemic NSAID therapy and can be useful for other types of pain including sports injuries, fibromyalgia or other musculoskeletal pain.  These advantages include:

• No direct stomach irritation
• Direct application to the site of pain
• Low systemic absorption (<5%) if you have liver or kidney problems
  
• Cost-effectiveness compared with newer NSAIDs
  
• Avoidance of drug interactions

The hallmark of effective transdermal NSAID therapy is the use of liposomes to efficiently transport the medication through the skin to the target tissue.  PLO, or Pluronic Lecithin Organogel, is a transdermal gel base that acts as a carrier for the liposome and enclosed medication and moves it across the skin where it can have local effects.  Our pharmacy uses an advanced transdermal base called Lipoderm®, which provides for a more stable and effective product.

The most common NSAID prescribed for topical application is ketoprofen.  It is typically formulated in concentrations ranging from ketoprofen 10-20%, is often combined with lidocaine 5-10%, and can be applied up to 4 times daily.  However, ibuprofen, naproxen, piroxicam, and diclofenac sodium can also be used.    The cost of topical NSAID therapy is very comparable to other therapies and ranges from $35-$45 for a 30 gram jar depending on the formulation and is covered by most private insurance plans.

Call the pharmacy or ask your health care provider about topical pain gels for muscle or joint pain.