Skip to main content

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

 

Get free coupons

Lidocaine 5% patch

(Lidoderm)

Get free coupons

Summary for Flector

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.

Indications for Flector

  • Acute (sudden onset) pain from minor strains, sprains, and bruises

Pros and Cons for Flector

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

Common Side Effects for Flector

  • 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%)

Warnings for Flector

  • 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

Summary for Lidoderm

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 for Lidoderm

Pros and Cons for Lidoderm

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 for Lidoderm

  • 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 for Lidoderm

  • Blood problem (methemoglobinemia)
  • Absorbing too much medication
  • Accidental poisoning in children or pets

Prices with our coupons for Flector vs. Lidoderm

Price Card Drug Icon
Diclofenac Epolamine30 patches / 1.3%
$126.80$298.14
Get free coupons
More Information
Price Card Drug Icon
Lidocaine30 patches / 5%
$60.19$131.34
Get free coupons
More Information

Compare other Pain drugs

Diclofenac-epolamine vs. LidocaineBenzocaine vs. LidocaineCapsaicin vs. LidocaineDibucaine vs. LidocaineDiclofenac vs. Lidocaine
Dilantin vs. LamictalElavil vs. LamictalElavil vs. LidocaineIbuprofen vs. DiclofenacLamictal vs. AbilifyLamictal vs. AptiomLamictal vs. LidocaineLidocaine vs. CortisoneLidocaine vs. DesipramineLidocaine vs. HydrocortisoneLidocaine vs. MentholLidocaine vs. Methyl-salicylateLidocaine vs. NeurontinLidocaine vs. TegretolLodine vs. DiclofenacLyrica vs. LidocaineMeloxicam vs. DiclofenacNaproxen vs. DiclofenacPamelor vs. LidocainePhenol vs. LidocainePramoxine-hcl vs. LidocainePramoxine vs. LidocaineRelafen vs. DiclofenacTrolamine-salicylate vs. LidocaineTylenol vs. Diclofenac

Browse medications by letter

Show All

Browse prescription and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.