Topical Pain Relief: The Good, the Bad & the Burn
Summary
Dr. Priyanka Wali and Hari Kondabolu discuss over-the-counter topical pain relievers, breaking down how diclofenac gel, lidocaine, menthol, camphor, and capsaicin work. They explain the mechanisms of these ingredients, such as blocking nerve signals or tricking heat receptors, and compare their safety profiles to oral NSAIDs. The episode highlights the benefits of localized treatment for conditions like arthritis and post-herpetic neuralgia while warning against misuse on broken skin or in children.
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