I used both for three years now ,I like patches better and works combine in my case with lidorderm patches ,one provide medications for inflammations and pain,and the other ,is a numb agent for pain,like its name lidorderm have lidocaine it numb the areas .
Well back to fletchor,still today's date work for me ,I was taking tablets before but suffer severe stomach pain and my dr decided to,try patches and gel ,gel didn't work for me ,the patch is ok ,remember we all experience side effects in different ways ,might work for some but not for all.
Patch is better ,12 on and 12 off ,we can't forget that ,easy directions .
Hope any you decide ,works well for you .take care . Jesika .