Diclofenac epolamine topical patch for the treatment of pain

Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs produce local pain relief while avoiding systemic adverse events, thanks to minimal systemic absorption. This review evaluates the effectiveness and safety of a topical diclofenac preparation, diclofenac epolamine (DHEP) patch 1.3% or diclofenac epolamine patch with heparin as excipient (DHEP+H) in treating mild-to-moderate pain. DHEP patch was associated with significant pain relief and improved function in numerous pain conditions, from minor soft tissue injuries to osteoarthritis and myofascial pain syndromes. Tolerability was good-to-excellent in all studies, with no serious adverse events. DHEP+H further improved efficacy without affecting tolerability. This patch is effective and safe for localized mild-to-moderate somatic pain.