Benefits of Diclofenac sodium patch in patients with low back pain

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Created On: 27/04/2023

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess the effectiveness and safety of the Diclofenac sodium (NSAID) patch to control low back pain.

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Key take away

Diclofenac sodium patch 75 mg and 150 mg given once daily for two weeks is well-tolerated and has an adequate analgesic effect in people with low back pain.

Background

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess the effectiveness and safety of the Diclofenac sodium (NSAID) patch to control low back pain.

Method

Diclofenac sodium patch dosages of 75 mg, 150 mg, or placebo were administered randomly to eligible patients once a day for two weeks. The pain intensity estimated by visual analogue scale (VAS) was the major endpoint ascertained.

Result

Regarding absolute alteration from baseline in mean three-day VAS score after two weeks of treatment, both 150 mg and 75 mg doses of Diclofenac sodium patch were superior to the placebo. The mean difference between active and placebo therapies in this variable was -5.67 mm in the 150 mg arm and -5.68 mm in the 75 mg arm. Most adverse events were minor. With the Diclofenac sodium patch, there were no significant safety concerns like skin irritation or gastrointestinal toxicity.

Conclusion

Diclofenac sodium patch has a good tolerability profile and is effective for low back pain management. This patch does not always need to be applied to the target site, unlike locally acting formulations. Hence, dosing is easy and the burden is not on 1 area of the skin.