Topical Analgesics: Pharmacology and Clinical Applications

Pain is a leading reason for seeking medical care, necessitating accurate diagnosis and appropriate analgesic treatment. When oral administration is impractical due to nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, or gastrointestinal issues, or when pain is localized, topical analgesics offer an effective alternative for managing both acute and chronic pain conditions, including osteoarthritis and neuropathic pain. These agents, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, lidocaine, and capsaicin, can provide pain relief while minimizing systemic side effects. Technological advances, such as nanocarriers and microneedles, aim to improve efficacy but face challenges like cost and toxicity. Here, the authors explore the pharmacology and clinical efficacy of topical analgesics, providing recommendations for their use in pain management.