lidocaine patch

A lidocaine patch is a medication applied directly to the skin to relieve localized pain. It contains lidocaine, a numbing agent that works by blocking nerve signals in the area where it's placed. This provides targeted pain relief, often used for conditions like nerve pain or postherpetic neuralgia. The patch sticks to the skin and can be left on for a specified period, usually up to 12 hours. It’s generally well-tolerated, with side effects being rare and typically mild, such as skin irritation. This method offers a localized alternative to oral pain medications, reducing overall systemic side effects.