Are Pain Relief Patches Safe? Understand the Science Behind the Patches

There are many pain relief solutions available in the market. From pills to patches, medicine has evolved significantly over the last decade. During this time, pain relief patches have emerged as a convenient and effective solution. These transdermal analgesics offer localised pain relief without the need for oral medications. But how do pain patches work and are they safe for your body? Let’s look at the fascinating science behind pain patches and explore how they work to alleviate discomfort and offer innovative pain management.
 

Pain patches, also known as transdermal patches, are medical devices designed to deliver therapeutic drugs through the skin and into the bloodstream. These patches adhere to the skin's surface, where they release specific medications that penetrate through the skin's layers and enter the bloodstream, targeting the pain at its source. They are most commonly used as back pain relief patches.
 

1. Adhesive layer: The bottom layer of the pain patch contains an adhesive that adheres to the skin. This layer ensures the patch stays in place throughout its intended wear time.
   
   
2. Drug reservoir: The drug reservoir, located above the adhesive layer, holds the active ingredients responsible for pain relief. These ingredients can include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, lidocaine, or other pain-relieving substances.
   
   
3. Membrane: The drug reservoir is covered by a semi-permeable membrane that controls the rate of drug release. This membrane allows the medication to pass through at a controlled pace, ensuring a steady and consistent flow of the drug into the bloodstream.
   
   
4. Backing layer: The top layer of the pain patch is typically a backing material that protects the patch and its contents from the environment. It also provides a barrier to prevent accidental drug release.
    

Transdermal patches take advantage of the skin's unique ability to absorb certain substances. The outermost layer of the skin, known as the stratum corneum, acts as a protective barrier. This layer is made up of dead skin cells and lipids that prevent many substances from penetrating into the body. However, pain relief patches are designed to overcome this barrier and deliver the medication effectively.

The medication's pathway involves crossing the stratum corneum, the epidermis, and eventually reaching the dermis, where it enters the bloodstream. From there, it circulates throughout the body, targeting the pain receptors and reducing inflammation or pain signals at the affected site.
 

1. Adhesion:
   When a pain relief patch is applied to the skin, the body's natural heat warms the adhesive, making it more flexible and allowing the patch to conform to the skin's contours. As the patch adheres to the skin, the drug reservoir releases a controlled amount of medication, which then diffuses through the skin's layers.
   
   
2. Overcoming the stratum corneum:
   The skin is composed of several layers, and the outermost layer is called the stratum corneum. This layer acts as a protective barrier, made up of dead skin cells and lipids. It prevents many substances from penetrating into the body, which is why applying a cream or lotion to the skin doesn't always result in systemic effects.
   However, pain patches are designed to overcome this barrier. The active ingredients in the drug reservoir are formulated to be small enough to pass through the stratum corneum. They may be in a specific chemical form or combined with agents that facilitate penetration.
   
   
3. Diffusion through skin layers:
   Once the patch is applied, the medication starts to diffuse through the layers of the skin. It penetrates the stratum corneum and enters the epidermis, the next layer of the skin. The drug then moves into the dermis, where tiny blood vessels called capillaries are located.
   
   
4. Entry into the bloodstream:
   At the dermal level, the active ingredients are absorbed into the capillaries and enter the bloodstream. From here, the medication is transported throughout the body, reaching the site of pain or inflammation.
   
   
5. Targeting pain receptors:
   Once in the bloodstream, the medication travels to the specific area where it is needed. For example, if you have applied a pain patch to your shoulder, the drug will be directed to that location. The medication then interacts with the pain receptors (nerve endings) at the affected site, reducing pain signals and providing relief.
   
   
6. Controlled release:
   The semi-permeable membrane covering the drug reservoir plays a crucial role in controlling the drug release rate. This controlled release ensures a steady and consistent flow of medication into the bloodstream over the patch's intended wear time. It prevents sudden spikes in drug concentration, which could lead to adverse effects, and maintains a therapeutic level of the drug for an extended period.

 

Different plasters have different active ingredients that work toward targeted pain relief. Some beneficial ingredients to look out for are:
 

1. Capsaicin: Capsaicin is the active component found in chilli peppers. It is known for its pain-relieving properties when used in pain plasters or patches. Capsaicin patches are specifically designed to deliver capsaicin to the skin, where it exerts its therapeutic effects. It works by providing sustained intense heat, and at the same time blocking the transmission of pain signals. The effective ingredient capsaicin helps relax the muscles by increasing blood flow as well as facilitating the transportation of oxygen and nutrients to the cells, resulting in pain relief.
   
   
2. Belladonna: Belladonna is an ayurvedic plant that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. In pain patches, belladonna is often combined with other ingredients to provide pain relief. The active compounds in belladonna pain plasters, such as atropine and scopolamine, have antispasmodic and analgesic effects, making it one of the best pain relief patch ingredients. When applied topically through pain patches, belladonna works by blocking certain nerve receptors, leading to muscle relaxation and decreased pain sensations. Additionally, it helps reduce inflammation in the affected area. Belladonna is especially beneficial for conditions like muscle spasms, joint pain, and nerve-related pain..
    
   
   

1. Targeted relief: Pain relief patches provide localized relief, delivering medication directly to the affected area. This targeted approach minimizes systemic exposure to drugs, reducing the risk of adverse effects on other organs.
   
   
2. Steady and prolonged relief: The controlled release of medication ensures a steady flow into the bloodstream over an extended period. This steady release can provide pain relief for several hours or even days, depending on the patch's design.
   
   
3. Convenience: Pain patches are easy to apply and do not require swallowing pills or injections. They are discreet and can be worn discreetly under clothing, allowing individuals to continue their daily activities while benefiting from pain relief.
   
   
4. Reduced side effects: Compared to oral medications, pain relief patches often have a lower risk of causing gastrointestinal problems or liver toxicity since they bypass the digestive system.

Pain patches have revolutionised the way we manage pain, offering a convenient and effective alternative to traditional oral medications. Whether they are used as back pain relief patches, or for any other type of muscle pain, they have a positive, soothing effect on the body. By harnessing the skin's ability to absorb specific substances, transdermal patches deliver targeted and consistent pain relief, improving the quality of life for countless individuals dealing with various painful conditions. As medical technology continues to advance, pain patches are likely to become even more sophisticated, providing further relief and comfort to those in need.
 

Please note that the above recommendations are general care tips. Consult a healthcare professional in case of any uncertainty around wound treatment and healing.

Always see your doctor if a wound is deep, bleeding profusely or showing signs of infection. For diabetic patients especially, proper wound care holds the utmost importance. Do not hesitate to discuss any concerns you may have with your doctor or your podiatrist, even when it comes to minor wounds and cut–especially if they’re on your feet.

The information provided through this website should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Although compiled with great care, it is not a substitute for professional advice. If you have or suspect a health problem, consult your doctor immediately. 

For further information regarding Hansaplast products, please contact us via email at customer.care@bdfindia.com