Growing popularity of topiceuticals

In 2017 topiceuticals, topical formulations, are increasingly referred to in pain medicine. In a recent state of the art review by Peter Paisley and Michael Serpell the following was highlighted: ‘Topiceuticals should be considered in a diagnosis of LNP, particularly in the frail and elderly population.’ and ‘The role of other topiceuticals has yet to be fully evaluated but small numbered trials have shown promise.’

The authors stressed the important fact that in around half of cancer patients with neuropathic pain consistent and circumscribed area of maximum pain have been described, as ‘localized neuropathic pain” (LNP). LNP forms the basis for using topiceuticals in cancer-related pain. The authors stipulate the use of topiceuticals in localized neuropathic pain associated with malignancy as a valuable option with many advantages over systemic treatments.

Reference
Paisley P, Serpell M. The role of topiceuticals in cancer pain. Curr Opin Support Palliat Care. 2017 Jun;11(2):93-98.