By foxnews.com
TRENTON, N.J. — The first pain patch using an anti-inflammatory drug to relieve acute sprains and strains is now available in the U.S. and is intended to produce fewer side effects than similar pills, maker Alpharma Inc. said Wednesday.
The Flector patch contains 180 milligrams of diclofenac, one of the world’s most widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. As a pill, diclofenac is sold under the brand name Voltaren.
The Flector patch, now available by prescription in drugstores across the United States, measures about 4 inches by 5 1/2 inches and is meant for short-term use.
The side effects of anti-inflammatory pills — upset stomach, nausea and potentially dangerous stomach bleeding and ulcers — are reduced with the patch because its puts less pain reliever into bloodstream, Bridgewater, N.J.-based Alpharma Inc. said.
