Anyone use Flector Patch?
 

My pain doc RX'd these. Gave me a couple samples which I tried, seemed to help.
just got my RX in the mail.

This is, from what I gather, some form of NSAID. Any of you familiar with my story know this; that I've had C spine issues for years - and pain left untreated.

I won't kid you, it's not like I feel great. But they do take some of the edge off.


I know a lot of you don't want to take a lot of meds or have trouble with taking certain meds. This may be a good deal for some people.

This is a fairly new med so you may not have had experience with it - I'd never heard of it (but it was worth trying).
If you've tried it, please chime in with your good/bad review.

If not and you're curious, just ask. I'll let ya know what it's doing for me.

Please notice
 

that this patch is not approved for chronic long term use (yet).

It carries the same warnings as the oral. NSAIDs cause bleeding in the GI tract
by systemic effects (reduction of Cox-1 protective cytokines) that act on the GI tract. Many people assume this is a local effect, but in reality it is not, it is a systemic effect.

The use of these patches are to place them at the site of acute injury.
This is not unlike using Salonpas OTC--which have methylsalicylate in them.
Flector just costs more.

Ketorlac (brand name Toradol) is also used transdermally in transdermal gels for acute pain. These gels are compounded by compounding pharmacies and can have other ingredients added. So transdermal NSAID is not really a novel idea.
This Flector patch is just more asthetically pleasing, and more accepted by 3rd party insurances.

Keep us informed as to your progress. I'd be interested to see if they work well.

there are...
 

there are 40 patches of Salonpas in that box.

http://www.salonpas.us/

They make several kinds, I only use the Methylsalicylate one.

I've used them for years...they are great. I have stacked them on my back
for larger issues but thankfully I rarely get back pain. I use the Salonpas
mostly on my feet, occasionally on the neck and knees.

The new Aleve Liquigels are far superior to Aleve tablets. I only use Aleve
when in a severe pain flare. Not every day by any means. If one can find
other solutions to pain, than NSAIDs that is best. Aleve is naproxen sodium only in 220mg
tablets (Rx is 550) The sodium version of naprosyn is faster acting.

Have you tried Lidoderm? I like these also. (but they are very expensive too).

Just started the patch
 

I was just prescribed the Flector patch this morning for a tear in my MCL.

On the one hand, I was expecting another steroid injection when I saw the doctor this morning, so I was relieved when he offiered the patch as an alternative.

On the other hand, it is VERY expensive, and after reading the prescribing information, I'm really not very impressed with what it offers. It seems like glorified ibuprofen, which I could get at $11.00 for a bottle of 180. Also, it contains gelatin, which is a no-no for vegetarians.

Be very glad that your insurance brings the cost of the patches to $.33 each. Even with my insurance (United Healthcare) it cost me $2.00 per patch for a prescription of 30.

So far I've had the patch on for about an hour. The only difference I notice is that it is sort of cool, being a gel and all. I could have gotten that from Icy Hot.

I know I sound a little bitter, but that is because I am. I Googled Flector this morning and the most abundant information I found is about how it is going to make the manufacturers and investors rich due to an intensive sales force and its appeal to insurance compaines.

My doctor only gave me 15 days worth of patches. This is hardly going to repair my torn MCL which I have been nursing for almost 5 months, so I am left to believe that there was some incentive for him to prescribe this medication.

I'll keep you posted.

May I ask where you are placing the Flector patch?
If you are putting behind the knee, that is the best spot.
Placement of patches may improve response. Unfortunately no directions are
given to medical people, or patients as a rule.

No NSAID drug orally or topically heals anything. They typically reduce inflammation and that allows
the blood flow to improve for healing. Over use of NSAIDs for more than 6 wks actually impair healing
because some Cox-2 cytokines released during inflammation stimulate healing and new cells.

Patches
 

Have tried the patch, thought it was great except for the side effect of a gigantic headache. Have trouble keeping the patch on. The last patch the doc gave me was Fenanyl, that like to kill me. Why would anyone invent something 80 times stronger than morphine? Fentanyl also leaves you broke, it is $25 a patch. The doc is injecting my back Monday hopefully that will help alittle. Fruit
:winky

Flector
 

I did get instructions: place the patch directly over the most painful area. I tried the Flector for almost a week, with absolutely no improvement over the ibuprofen.

When I complained to the nurse about the patches she spoke to the doctor who then switched my prescription to Naprosyn. Which I refused.

I agree that prolonged use of NSAIDS is ill-advised. I am going on 6 months after this injury. I believe that after 5 months of such treatment it is time to admit that anti-inflamatories are not the solution. If my doctor believes the best course of treatment is for me to shut up and deal with it, I wish he would say as much instead of having me pay for repeated trips to his office and pharmaceuticals I don't want or need. I want my knee fixed, not a magic pill. I can take pain without medication if I know there is an end in sight. What I can't take is being strung along.

Again, sorry for the bitterness. I just feel like they are going to suck as much money out of me as they can before they do anything of significance, as the promotion of the Flector patch attests. Anytime your physician hands you a prescription with coupon attached, be very suspicious.

For anyone who is interested, as this blog was the only instance I found with information about Flector that was not about its financial prowess; that patch is crap. Save your money.

My Rheumatologist gave me script for Flector patches to help with pain in my back. I have to say, it did help as long as it would stay on. I soon learned that taping it to the area helped to secure it. But then you have to be careful of which tape to use if you are prone to allergic reactions from the adhesive in the tape. From experience, I recommend a white, medical paper tape.
Hope this was helpful.

flector and MCL Tear
 

Hi,Im 2 weeks post-op from Arthroscopic Surgery for MCL,stop nursing it and get it repaired,it was a breeze. Im going through therapy now but the pain is gone. Flector didnt help for this type of injury,only Vicodan and rest.Good lick and get a Good Sports Med. Orthopedic like I did.

Wonder Drug Flector
 

Flector is great for Thorasic and Low Back Pn,I also use Duragesic 7.5 and Vicodan,18 years Ive suffered until now I have it in control with Cymbalto 60mg,used for depression it also does wonders for nerve pain which is why I use it Good Luck!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

Fentynl 80 times stronger than morphine?
 

Hi,Been on Fentenyl (Duragesic7.5,not the generic) and it saved my life,5 years now. Contact the drug co. and see if you qualify for free meds,lower the dose by RX,NEVER cut the patch and under extreme heat they only last 2 days Good Luck!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Interesting "take" on the prescription. My doctor always seems to come up with all the "new" remedies as well. I'm trying the patch myself. Just got back from Walgreens and slapped one on. I'll keep you posted. Mac

Flector Patch
 

I just tried a sample patch and had some benefit but it seemed to make me a little tired and it does not stick well at all, I used tape and then showered after a workout and it came right off in a goppong mess!

I talked to the doctor at
 

Alpharma's professional help line.

He said the adhesive is similar to that used on Lidoderm.
The latter don't stick well either.

Some hints....
1) apply only to clean non oily skin that is very dry.
use alcohol if you have to remove oils, etc. first.

2) covering a curvey area, cut the patch into segments to
fit around the curve and use tape to hold it down.

Perspiration will affect the adhesion, causing the patch to slip off. The gel adhesive is very hygroscopic.

You might try the new Salonpas that were just approved by the
FDA OTC . They raised the methyl salicylate to 10% per patch and they are expensive. Available on drugstore.com

I use the older Salonpas OTC with success. Sometimes they stick too well, and they may cause a redness when removed.
I haven't tried the new ones yet...so I don't know what adhesive is used for them.

The manufacturer of Flector is aware of the poor adhesion. So is the maker of Lidoderm. But answers are not forthcoming.
Sorry.

Flector Patch
 

i just received some sample patches from my doctor and tried them for chronic hamstring pain, I tried only one and found it helpful but had to tape it on and when I showered it fell of and became a goppy mess!

Both
 

Flecktor and Lidoderm are NOT designed for use in water.

Some patches like Catapres, and Fentanyl which are designed for longer use have water repellent features.

But Flecktor and Lidoderm do not. Don't expect them to stay on in the shower or swimming pool.

Flector patch
 

I have been on the flector patch for 3 weeks now....wasnt really doing much for me........they r telling me i have tennis elbow.been since august 2008.........the dr decided to try this patch cause all the meds i was taking was messing up my stomach.....well all i can say is i rather have a messed up stomach then go thur what i have been going thur these last 4 days......it started 4 days ago....was very light headed........dizzy......actually seeing stars ,which kind of freaked me out cause i have never been thur that before..........then my arm had such a burning feeling......felt like my whole arm was on fire.........from my wrist to my shoulder........after 2 days of feeling like that i no longer put another patch on.........i waited til yesterday to call my dr..........cause i couldnt even get out of bed.........my wrist to my shoulder hurt so bad.......i couldnt even lift anything ......let alone drive to work......today the dr calls me back telling me to stop the patch....that i have had a reaction to the patch....and still today i cant lift my arm......feels like someone is holding a match to my arm and its on fire......just checking to see if anyone has had this side effect....wondering ;-)

I am on my third day of Flector, and found this forum. Thanks everyone for all of your helpful suggestions. It is amazing to me how everyone has to stumble through this process as individuals, repeating the same problems/mistakes. I am a registered nurse, so I have seen many patients who have been dealing with chronic pain. I myself have struggled with it since Vioxx was withdrawn.

This was my first experience with this patch, though I have seen Voltaren used in tablet form (same drug as Flector). I wanted to make a suggestion, some had mentioned poor adhesive properties. I have been planning my showers around the patch dosing to avoid the moisture problem. I do think when I am feeling better that working out at the gym could be a problem. For now they stick on me for 12 hours. I do want to say that some of the tapes are not recommended on transdermal patches, and the adhesive may degrade the gelatin. I would try a large moleskin patch (in the footcare section at Walgreens), if it's okay by the manufacturer.

Moleskin is felt with adhesive, and it comes in a large roll which will cover the entire Flector patch (you can also buy rolls online). The adhesive stayed on the bottom of my feet all day when I used it for a wart it works better than anything I've seen for curved areas. If you are using tape and the entire patch isn't in contact with your skin you are not getting the stated dosage anyway.

Also, my pain is neurogenic and deep, I am planning on an epidural after my surgeon clears it. I am not having a great response to the Flector probably because of how deep my pain is. That being said, I am having some relief superficially. I also am taking some Flexeril, and the combo is better than oral NSAIDS. As you all well know there is a neuro and muscular component to back pain.

What facinates me is that my prescription plan (Anthem BCBS) won't cover Lyrica, as it isn't labeled for lumbar pain. They made me jump through hoops to get to it. So far this month I've been given two full rx for neurontin, due to dosage changes 100, 300 respectively, and now Flector at $360/60 patches. I am amazed at the lengths insurance will go, as it would have been more cost-effective to just approve the Lyrica. Unfortunately I used the samples up so I know it works for me. I cannot afford to pay in addition $250 OOP every month for 1 Rx.

There is also a coated (with Prilosec I believe) Voltaren pill that's supposed to help with the GI stuff. It does block the absorption of calcium however. It is not yet generic (probably raking in too much dough). I have not taken it but my PM&R doc swears by it.

Just an option. Good luck.

Flector for a few months...
 

I have been using Flector for a few months now. I do have to say it has helped for awhile with the pain and numbness that travels from low back into both hips down my legs to my feet. I don't have a final diagnosis yet for a L and T Spine injury from nine months ago. I had been taking Celebrex but it bloated me SO horribly I couldn't button my pants and could hardly move... the minor help that gave me was not worth that side affect. The Flector patch does seem to be losing it's effectiveness... but my doctor is not prescribing some heavier duty meds now that it's been so long and my pain has only increased and spread....
It's great to hear everyone's opinions and experiences...

Flector Patches
 

well thanks to all about your feedback , I have been debating on whether to try or not . I will put one on tonight . I just cant stand the ringing in the ear side effect as I have it already and dont need more music to my ears. Thanks

i just started the patch today
 

hi i am new here and also new to using the flector patch. i have plantar fascitis (may be spelled wrong) pulled the tendon in bottom of foot. this happened in march. i have had 3 steroid injections and doing phsyical therapy. i have 1 more injection left and we are saving this one in case i have a reaccurance. i was presrcibed the patch today 08-12-2009. the patch wont stay on my foot:mad: i am going to try and sleep with it tonight. i cant take oral nsaids cause i get sick to my stomache. i hope this helps get my foot back to somewhat normal. i havent been walking much on my foot, i have gained about 20lbs now because i cant move around and those shots put 5lbs on for each shot. this is a workmans comp claim so i dont have to pay for these patches. i still am going to workbut i have to sit there and i have a very physical job. all i can do is keep posting my progress and read all of yours and see what happens. my last resort is an operation to release the tendon.:(

just prescribe Flector patch...
 

Good evening,
Just stumbled upon your site and wanted to ask about the Flector Patch.
I had an MRI and my neurologist said I had a few herniated discs, bulges
and some arthritis. I went to pick up the Patches and found that it would
be $50. So I went home and did some reading about it. I have had ulcers
in the past as well as hives for 1 year each time. I swear my Dr. said that
this would bypass my stomach, but it doesn't sound like it. Does anyone
know for sure? I have a feeling I'll be calling him back tomorrow with some
questions. The left side of my neck is really hurting as well as making me
nauseaus. I have been taking Motrin for about 2 weeks now (once a day),
and it's somewhat helping, but I don't really want the side effects of that
to start kicking in, cause they have in the past. Any information or help, would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for letting me vent.
PS - I found a site that will give you a $30. coupon --**

The way NSAIDs work to damage the stomach is not a local direct effect. It is a central one. That means that dose is very important. The Flector patches would have a smaller dose entering the body, as they are designed to be a "local" solution.

I use OTC Salonpas patches and they work well for me. They don't cost that much either. They have methyl salicylate in them, not the drug Voltaren, as Flector does. They also stick better. I think aspirin and its derivatives are more potent anyway for inflammation.

After having a good run with Flector, I had to stop using - developed a rash at site.

I was SO bummed, I can't even tell you. Tried a pill version of same med, but did not do the job and tore my stomach to shreds. Odd huh? such a diff...

I did not have a big prob keeping my patch on, maybe where I put it - just below neck, on shoulders - was one of the easier spots for it to stick. And maybe it was the right med for the type of pain.


Okay, I just need a wee rant here, after reading about all the vicodin, and fentanyl and what all....


My thing is, I have done 3 pain clinics (and counting!) 4 neuros and this is the kind of stuff I get. Excuse me if I sound bitter. Nobody prescribes me REAL pain meds.


What am I, chopped liver?

I did the ESIs and all that till I had vagal responses and my cardiologist about slapped me, and told me NO MORE of that. I've tried all the off label stuff too - all the AD's, the anti seizure meds ad nauseum. They do NOT work.

I do NOT work either. I have been laying around like a lump since I was 39, now 46, because why? Because it hurts, I have a neck injury, SM, and either fibro or ms and my pain does not count. I guess I don't whine enough when I'm at the docs or something. Or I look too good.

Those so called docs should have to gimp a mile in my shoes - it would take a month.

But enough whining.

Flector for 3 months
 

Hi All. New here. Thought I would relate my experience with Flector. I have been using it for about 3 months. I have pretty bad arthritis in my lower lumbar area causing lots of pain and shooting nerve pain down my right leg into my foot. I was walking around bent over and couldn't get up from chairs and couches without help. Was going to a pain doc who was doing steroid epidurals and had me on Norco for the pain. I am also on Ultram to control the arthritis I have in the rest of my body. The steroids helped for a little while but scare me and the norco works some but has to be increased as I kept getting use to it and the docs hate prescribing it because of the DEA hassling them all the time.
Anyway, I got a Flector patch from my hip doc to try on my back and it seemed to help so I got a scrip from him. The difference this has made in my life is amazing. Seriously, I have no more pain in my lower back just some stiffness and no shooting pains anymore. I do have to wear one around the clock and I noticed that there was a build up of relief. It didn't happen over night. Took a few days of continuous wear and the pain comes back if I try and wear only one a day instead of two (these are insanely expensive).
I called Flector because I was concerned about the NSAIDs and my stomach, which reacts really badly to them, and was told that only 1% of the drug enters your body systemically through the patch as opposed to the same amount taken orally. I am having zero stomach problems with the patch.
I make sure to thoroughly clean the area each time I remove one to avoid skin problems and have experienced no rashes, itching etc. to date. They do feel weird, like a cold wet noodle, on my back but I will take that over my pain any day. They stay on ok but I think that is because my underwear keeps them on. My son tried them on his middle back and he couldn't get them to stay on even with tape.
I will keep using these (despite the cost) as long as they work because I no longer need epidurals or pain meds (except for the Ultram for total body arthritis relief and I may even try getting off that). So 5 starts to Flector!

Flector Patches
 

I started using Flector patches for severe pain in my neck after the doctor decided not to do surgery for a ruptured disc. I have severe osteoporosis, which has caused ruptured and bugling disc up and down my spine. The last time he did surgery he had to use a plate and screws. When he put the screws in my bones was very soft. Anyway......... The flector patches have been a godsend!!! I can't take any kind of arthritis meds because they cause acid reflux and ulcers in my stomach and throat. I was concerned to start with but I haven't had a problem so far. Thank God!!!! Did you guys know you can cut the patches up and place anywhere they are needed?? My doctor said I don't have to use the whole patch on one spot. Just cut them up and use them where ever I need them. I end up paying 5 cents a patch because I have Medicaid. Thank God for Medicaid!!!!! I hope everyone has as much luck as I do with the flector patches!!!!

Annborden

Useful info
 

Hi Everyone -

I was prescribed the Flector patch from my Dr for a herniated disc in my lower back. I understand that these patches are VERY expensive, however it seems to be a great alternative for me as I don't tolerate oral anti-inflammatory meds. **

If you read the instructions, it does state not to wear it in the shower. Shower in between changing the patches.

new warning on this drug for topical use:
 

There is a new warning about Voltaren (diclofenac) used topically or orally and this would include Flector patches:

http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/S.../ucm193047.htm

And this link discusses why Voltaren and all other NSAIDs (except for naproxen) raise risk of heart attack sustantially:
http://www.scienceblog.com/cms/aleve...eam-13085.html

Fibromyalgia
 

After Celebrex became dangerous to my kidneys, having lost 40 percent of my output function, my pain physician gave me Flector patches, which treats both my fibromyalgia and my arthritis discomforts well. I have malformations in my neck and spine, from the arthritis.

However, my insurance will no longer cover the medication, saying it is only for "acute pains due to sprains, etc."

Except it works, allowing me to stand for the six hours a day that I have to each day for work. Without it I'm incapacitated, unable to think for the severity of the pain.

I truly believe it is a great drug; and, as I have hyper-sensitivities to many allergens and didn't have any problems with this drug, nor did it negatively affect my kidneys, I hope you have a similar positive experience.

And, I pray that the Insurance Gods will allow me to get my needed medications again.

flector patch
 

I use a patch I got from korea it is awesome and much less medicine 30 mg and I have bad knees and wow it makes them work again. I'm 65 and still playing softball because of these patches.

Flector patch for low back pain
 

The doctor just prescribed flector patch for my low back pain caused by sacroiliitis. My concern is all the warnings concerning heart related side effects. 6 months ago I had a block artery with a stent placement. Can't anyone elaborate on the seriousness of the heart side effects. Should I worry???? Stop usage?

Three things with diclofenac:
 

There are 3 types of things to watch for:

1) cardiac effects (basically for all NSAIDs used over long periods)

2) GI bleeding effects (the bleeding effects are centrally done thru the blood stream and occur with swallowing this drug or absorbing thru a patch)

3) Liver toxicity--- recently this warning was put out;

black boxed warning here:
http://www.rxlist.com/flector_patch-drug.htm

http://www.arthritistoday.org/news/d...-damage025.php

My doctor would not give me this patch, therefore.

I use OTC Salonpas with some success.

There is also a new OTC very strong rub, called Precise by
the makers of Tylenol.

Flector isn't going to help much with plantar fasciitis. The only two things that really help are stretching exercises (basically for the rest of your life) and special silicone heel cups (the brand is Bauerfeind and you can get them on amazon - select Health and Beauty section, then enter silicone heel cups). Mine always comes back within about three weeks of slacking off or quitting my exercises, so keep at it.

Plantar fasciitis has nothing to do with tendons - if it did, your doc would be crazy for giving you cortisone shots because they are absolutely verboten for tendon problems (they can cause the tendon to rupture). Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation/shortening of the fascia.

If the patch won't stay on, try sports tape (stretchy and only sticks to itself) or netting. Don't get it wet.

Flector Patch for MCL tear
 

This post appears to have been a while ago, but I wondered how long it has been since your knee was healed...I did the same thing to my knee four months ago...cannot take anesthesia, so no operation...my physician gave me a couple of boxes of the patches...loved it the first time I used it, but the cost will keep me from getting them...loss of insurance (and job) has now dictated what procedures and medicines I can take...this will not be on that list of few aids...stinks without insurance! Oh, well! It is life!