Potential Benefits of Topical Creams & Patches for Pain Relief

Topical analgesics are pain-relief medicines that are applied directly to the skin to help relieve muscle and joint pain.

Unlike oral pain relievers that are taken by mouth, topical analgesics are designed to work locally on the skin, right where you apply them.

Some topical analgesics relieve pain by:

• Targeting pain at the site of inflammation

• Targeting pain receptor nerves

Common ingredients in topical analgesics include:¹

• Lidocaine

• Capsaicin

• Menthol

• Camphor

• Diclofenac

• Methyl salicylate

These ingredients are available in different forms, such as creams, ointments, gels, or patches, making topical pain relief easy to use in a way that fits your routine.²

Applying pain relief medication directly to the affected area offers several potential advantages for people looking for localized relief.

1. Targeted pain relief where it hurts

By applying a topical analgesic directly where it hurts, you can get relief right where you need it. This targeted approach focuses pain relief on the affected muscles or joints instead of the whole body.

2. Easy-to-use pain relief

Topical pain relievers are designed to be simple and convenient. You can apply the cream or patch where it’s needed and wait — no water or pills required. This makes topical analgesics easy to keep on hand and use whenever pain hits.

3. Favorable safety profile when used as directed

When used as directed, topical analgesics often have a favorable safety profile. While side effects can occur, they are often localized.

The most common side effect for most topical analgesics is irritation in the place it was applied.² Always read and follow the product label, and talk to your doctor if you have questions about using a topical pain reliever.

4. Pain types topical analgesics can help relieve

Topical analgesics can help relieve several common types of minor aches and pains, including:^{1, 2}

• Back pain

• Muscle pain

• Shoulder pain

• Knee pain

• Wrist pain

• Elbow pain

• Arthritis pain

These benefits make topical analgesics a helpful option for people seeking localized pain relief across a range of everyday pain types.

TYLENOL® PRECISE® delivers targeted pain relief where you need it most. Topical lidocaine (both in most creams and patches) provides relief where you need it.

Rollerball applicator designed for easy targeting and less mess

The rollerball applicator helps you apply the cream evenly and with less mess, making it easier to reach hard-to-reach areas.

Fast pain relief

Topical lidocaine works where you apply it to help provide relief from aches and pains.

Lidocaine active ingredient

Topical lidocaine helps numb pain by blocking nerve cells from sending pain signals to the brain.³

Advanced hydration technology

TYLENOL® PRECISE® contains advanced hydration technology.

Fragrance-free formula

The fragrance-free formula in TYLENOL® PRECISE® Pain Relieving Cream avoids added scents⁴, making it more discreet to use and gentle for those sensitive to fragrance.

Cooling sensation with menthol

Select TYLENOL® PRECISE® formulas include menthol, which provides a cooling sensation.

Learn more about TYLENOL® PRECISE® patches and creams.