In some cases, healthcare providers prescribe compounded topical medications designed to be applied directly to the affected area. Compounding allows pharmacists to adjust medication strengths or combine compatible ingredients when commercial products don't meet a patient's needs.
Providers may choose a topical form for patients who prefer not to take an oral medication or who need application to one area.
Ingredients your provider may combine
Topical pain compounds are built from the prescriber's choice of ingredients and strengths. Common choices include:
- NSAIDs such as ketoprofen, diclofenac and meloxicam
- Local anesthetics such as lidocaine
- Neuropathic agents such as gabapentin and amitriptyline
- Muscle relaxants such as baclofen and cyclobenzaprine
- Other agents such as nifedipine, clonidine or menthol
Each ingredient is chosen by your provider and combined in a topical base chosen for the formula.
Customized topical formulations
- Creams
- Gels
Areas where providers commonly prescribe topical pain compounds
- Neuropathic pain
- Musculoskeletal discomfort
- Joint pain
- Localized nerve pain
Compounded medications require a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider and are not FDA approved. This page is educational and is not medical advice.