Scratching the Surface: A Review of Rx/OTC Topical Pain Medications

Walk through the analgesic aisle with the lens of a patient. You’re sure to see the 500 boxes of acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin, followed by colorful attempts at explanations ingredients and effects for topical pain creams, lotions, rubs, and patches. Just how do we as healthcare professionals navigate the plethra of topical pain medication options? During this discussion, we’ll clear the fog on which ingredients do what, and what ingredients are in what, along with explanations of how to explain respective administrations to patients. Who knows, maybe the next time you’re in pain, you’ll be able to figure out what you’ll need, too!