Last Updated on January 6, 2026 by Analgesia team
Pain relief patches are becoming a popular alternative to tablets for people living with chronic pain, nerve pain, arthritis, and long‑term back issues. This guide breaks down the exact prescription patches available in the UK, how they work, and which brands doctors actually prescribe.
What Are Pain Relief Patches on Prescription?
Pain relief patches on prescription are medicated adhesive patches that deliver pain‑relieving drugs through the skin over several hours or days. In the UK, they’re prescribed for chronic pain, nerve pain, arthritis, and cases where oral medication isn’t suitable.
They’re medicated patches that release pain‑relief drugs through the skin for long‑lasting relief.
Explanation:
Pain patches are part of a group called transdermal medications. They’re used when:
- Tablets cause stomach irritation
- Pain is constant and long‑term
- A steady dose is needed
- Patients struggle to swallow pills
In our experience, patients who switch to patches often report steadier pain control with fewer stomach‑related side effects.
How Do Pain Relief Patches Work?
Pain patches work by releasing medication through the skin into the bloodstream, providing slow, consistent pain relief without the spikes and crashes of oral painkillers.
They deliver a controlled dose directly into the bloodstream for long‑lasting relief.
Explanation:
Transdermal patches:
- Release medication gradually
- Avoid the digestive system
- Maintain stable blood levels
- Reduce the need for frequent dosing
This makes them ideal for chronic pain conditions.
What Types of Pain Relief Patches Are Available on Prescription in the UK?
The main prescription pain patches in the UK include opioid patches (buprenorphine, fentanyl), lidocaine patches, capsaicin patches, and NSAID patches for arthritis.
UK doctors prescribe opioid, nerve‑pain, and anti‑inflammatory patches depending on the condition.
1. Opioid Pain Relief Patches (for severe chronic pain)
Brands:
- Buprenorphine patches: Butec, BuTrans, Reletrans
- Fentanyl patches: Durogesic, Matrifen, Mezolar, Fentalis
Used for:
- Chronic back pain
- Cancer pain
- Severe arthritis
- Long‑term musculoskeletal pain
In our experience, buprenorphine patches are the most commonly prescribed opioid patches in the UK due to their safety profile.
2. Lidocaine Patches (for nerve pain)
Brand:
- Versatis 5% Lidocaine Patch
Used for:
- Sciatica
- Nerve pain
- Post‑herpetic neuralgia
- Localised neuropathic pain
These patches numb the affected area and are often the first choice for nerve‑related pain.
3. Capsaicin Patches (for long‑term nerve pain)
Brand:
- Qutenza 8% Patch
Used for:
- Severe nerve pain
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Post‑shingles nerve pain
Hospitals often apply Qutenza because it requires professional supervision.
4. NSAID Patches (for arthritis and inflammation)
Brand:
- Flector (Diclofenac Patch)
Used for:
- Osteoarthritis
- Joint inflammation
- Localised muscle pain
These are less common on the NHS but available privately.
What Is the Most Effective Pain Relief Patch?
The most effective patch depends on the type of pain: buprenorphine or fentanyl for severe chronic pain, lidocaine for nerve pain, and NSAID patches for arthritis.
There’s no single “best” patch — effectiveness depends on the condition.
Pain Relief Patches for Back Pain: What Do Doctors Prescribe?
Doctors prescribe buprenorphine, fentanyl, or lidocaine patches depending on whether the back pain is muscular, arthritic, or nerve‑related.
Opioid patches for severe pain, lidocaine for nerve‑related back pain.
Brands commonly used:
- Buprenorphine: Butec, BuTrans
- Fentanyl: Durogesic
- Lidocaine: Versatis
Sciatica patients often respond best to Versatis.
Pain Patches for Arthritis on Prescription
Doctors prescribe NSAID patches or low‑dose opioid patches when arthritis pain is persistent, and tablets aren’t suitable.
Arthritis patches reduce inflammation or provide long‑term pain control.
Brands:
- Flector (NSAID)
- Butec / BuTrans (opioid)
Pain Patches for Nerve Pain (Neuropathic Pain)
Lidocaine (Versatis) and capsaicin (Qutenza) patches are the most effective prescription options for nerve pain.
Lidocaine = fast relief. Capsaicin = long‑term nerve desensitisation.
Brands:
- Versatis
- Qutenza
Hospitals often use Qutenza for severe cases.
How to Apply and Remove a Pain Relief Patch Safely
Apply patches to clean, dry skin and remove them by gently peeling from the edge; wash the area afterwards to remove residue.
Clean skin, firm placement, gentle removal.
Steps:
- Clean and dry the skin
- Apply the patch firmly
- Avoid heat sources
- Rotate patch sites
- Remove gently
- Dispose safely
In our experience, rotating sites prevents irritation.
Side Effects and Safety Considerations
Common side effects include skin irritation, drowsiness, and nausea; opioid patches require strict medical supervision due to overdose risk.
Most patches are safe, but opioid patches need careful monitoring.
Can You Get Pain Relief Patches on Prescription in the UK?
Yes — pain relief patches are available on the NHS and private prescription, depending on your condition and clinical need.
Yes, but eligibility depends on diagnosis and severity.
FAQs
Buprenorphine, fentanyl, lidocaine, capsaicin, and NSAID patches, depending on the pain type.
Yes — through the NHS or privately.
Buprenorphine is potent but works differently; strength depends on dose and condition.
Buprenorphine for chronic pain, Versatis for nerve pain, Flector for arthritis.
Lidocaine (Versatis) for fast relief; Qutenza for long‑term improvement.
Versatis is the most commonly prescribed option for sciatic pain
Hospitals frequently use Qutenza and high‑strength opioid patches for severe cases.
Final Thoughts
Pain relief patches offer a powerful alternative to tablets, especially for chronic or nerve‑related pain. Understanding the brands, types, and prescribing rules helps you make informed decisions and speak confidently with your GP or pain specialist.