The health service are asking people who use the patches to consider requesting a review.
The NHS advise that these patches are deemed unsuitable for long-term pain.(Image: NHS GGC)
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde have issued an appeal for people who are currently prescribed lidocaine patches, which are usually prescribed under common names such as Ralvo or Versatis, to consider requesting a review.
They issued a similar request around one year ago in aims to reduce the inappropriate use of the patches and deal with the significant costs associated with them.
These patches offer short term pain relief but they are only effective in a very small number of conditions. Despite this, their use has greatly increased in recent years.
Lidocaine patches are only meant to be used for the short-term treatment of nerve pain following shingles. They are considered ineffective for long-term use or for other types of pain, such as back pain or hip pain.
Many people who use these patches could get an alternative which would be better suited to their needs. Last years appeal had a significant impact but Jane Hall, Deputy Director of Pharmacy at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, has asked patients and members of the public to help NHSGGC to reduce the use of lidocaine patches further.
She said: “Lidocaine patches are an effective medicine for shingles, and they will continue to be prescribed to patients when they are effective.
“However, there are some patients who receive these patches where they may not be beneficial, and we are keen to review their use to establish ongoing need.
“Our appeal last year had a significant impact on the number of these patches prescribed, but if we can make further reductions, it will benefit our patients as well as freeing up precious resources to help in other areas.
“We would encourage anyone who is currently prescribed these patches to ask for a review by the GP practice pharmacy team, so that you can ensure that your prescription is right for you.
“We would also ask people to speak to a friend or loved one who uses these patches and encourage them to seek a review of their prescription.”