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Compare Flector vs. Lidoderm

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Diclofenac patch (Flector) and lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm) are both topical medications used to relieve pain, but they belong to different medication classes. Diclofenac is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that treats pain and inflammation from minor strains, sprains, and bruises. Lidocaine is a local anesthetic used to relieve nerve pain from shingles, known as postherpetic neuralgia. Diclofenac patches are applied once or twice daily, depending on the brand, while lidocaine patches are applied once daily for up to 12 hours. Common side effects of diclofenac include skin reactions and digestive issues, while lidocaine may cause skin irritation and, rarely, methemoglobinemia, a serious blood condition. Diclofenac should not be used with oral NSAIDs due to increased bleeding risk, but this isn't an issue with lidocaine patches.

  • Diclofenac patch
    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)
  • Diclofenac patch
    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)

  • Summary of Flector vs. Lidoderm

    Summary for NSAID
    Prescription only

    Diclofenac patch is a topical skin patch that works well to treat pain and inflammation caused by strains, sprains, and bruises. It's easy to apply, but you cannot get the patches wet.

    Summary for Local anesthetic
    Prescription only

    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm) is a prescription medication used to relieve nerve pain caused by a shingles infection, also called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). It's a local anesthetic that works by numbing your nerves to help reduce pain. You apply the patch directly to the painful area of your skin once a day, and it can be worn for up to 12 hours in a 24-hour period. Common side effects include temporary skin irritation, redness, and a mild burning sensation where the patch is applied.

  • Indications of Flector vs. Lidoderm

    Indications for
    •Acute (sudden onset) pain from minor strains, sprains, and bruises
    Indications for
    •Nerve pain caused by shingles (postherpetic neuralgia)

  • Pros and Cons of Flector vs. Lidoderm

    Pros and Const for NSAID
    Pros
    •Available as a patch that you apply to the skin, so it's a good option for people who cannot take medications by mouth
    •Less likely to cause addiction and abuse compared to opioids
    •Available as a generic
    Cons
    •Might take a few hours to start relieving pain
    •Can't apply to damaged or broken skin
    •Not recommended for use during pregnancy, especially during the third trimester
    Pros and Const for Local anesthetic
    Pros
    •Works directly on the skin
    •Generally well-tolerated with few side effects
    •Can cut patches to fit the area of pain
    Cons
    •Commonly causes skin irritation
    •Must avoid contact with water wearing the patch
    •Might interact with many medications

  • Common Side Effects of Flector vs. Lidoderm

    Common Side Effects for
    •Application site reactions, like burning, itching, inflamed skin, dryness, or redness (11%)
    •Digestive tract reactions, like nausea, upset stomach, indigestion, changes in your sense of taste, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or dry mouth (9%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Blisters
    •Bruising
    •Burning sensation
    •Changes in skin color
    •Rash or redness
    •Swelling
    •Peeling or flaking skin
    •Itching
    •Small bumps or spots
    •Tiny red or purple dots under the skin
    •Tingling or numbness in the area

  • Warnings of Flector vs. Lidoderm

    Common Side Effects for
    •Heart attack and stroke
    •Stomach bleeding
    •Heart problems
    •Lowered kidney function
    •Liver problems
    •Serious allergic reactions
    •Life-threatening skin reactions
    •Harm to unborn baby
    •Anemia (low red blood cells)
    •Careful handling of diclofenac patch
    •Avoid taking oral NSAIDs
    Common Side Effects for
    •Blood problem (methemoglobinemia)
    •Absorbing too much medication
    •Accidental poisoning in children or pets

  • Prices with our coupons for Flector vs. Lidoderm

    Learn more about Diclofenac patch
    Learn more about Lidocaine 5% patch

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