Topical analgesic agents.

Pain processing and transmission are achieved by a complex interaction of pathways and processes. Those parts of the process with peripheral representation may be amenable to therapeutic intervention by systemic administration to achieve a peripheral effect or by local application, including local topical administration to the skin overlying the painful area. Advantages include high level of patient acceptance, ease of administration, avoidance of systemic side effects, and reduced drug-drug interactions. Those drugs with topical analgesic effects include those with specific topical analgesic indication and others in which no such indication exists but that may offer a chance of pain therapy at reduced risk.