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Patient instructions

Transdermal Pain Cream Pump Patient Instructions

These instructions are for compounded transdermal pain gels and creams dispensed in a metered pump. The mixture may contain one drug or several, and delivers medication through the skin so the treated area gets a higher concentration than an oral dose would give it. Prescribed for nerve pain such as diabetic neuropathy, trigeminal neuralgia, and post-herpetic neuralgia, as well as fibromyalgia, arthritic pain, and allodynia. Available by prescription only.

Prime it once

The first time you use a new pump, press it until cream comes out. After that, each press dispenses a measured dose.

Gentle, then 60 seconds more

Rub gently until the cream disappears, then keep going for another minute. Gentle contact — not pressure — is what helps absorption.

External use only

Wash your hands before and after, keep the site dry for an hour, and never apply to broken skin unless your prescriber has said to.

How to Use

  1. 1Wash your hands before using. You may want to wear a disposable glove to apply.
  2. 2Take the cap off the pump. On first use, prime the pump by pressing it as many times as needed until cream comes out.
  3. 3Dispense the prescribed number of pumps onto the affected area or onto your hand.
  4. 4Rub it in gently until the gel or cream is no longer visible, then keep rubbing gently for another 60 seconds — this helps the medication penetrate deeper.
  5. 5Do not press hard. Heavy pressure can make pain worse, and gentle rubbing works just as well.
  6. 6Replace the cap and wash your hands well.
  7. 7Keep the application site dry for at least 1 hour. You do not need to cover the area with a dressing or bandage.

If You Miss a Dose

  • If you use the cream on a schedule and miss an application, apply it when you remember.
  • If it is nearly time for the next application, skip the missed one — do not apply extra pumps to catch up.
  • If your cream is prescribed as needed, missed doses are not an issue.

Side Effects

Topical delivery keeps most of the medication at the treated area, so side effects are limited for most people. You may notice:

  • Redness or irritation where the cream is applied.
  • Fatigue, nausea, lightheadedness, dizziness, or mood changes are possible but rare — these can happen when some medication is absorbed into the bloodstream.
  • If any of these occur, contact your physician or the pharmacy.

Serious Allergic Reaction

A very serious allergic reaction to this medication is rare. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following:

  • Rash
  • Itching or swelling, especially of the face, tongue, or throat
  • Severe dizziness
  • Trouble breathing

Storage

Keep the pump at room temperature, away from extreme heat or cold, bright light, and excessive moisture. If the product changes colour or separates, contact the pharmacy before using it again.

When to Call the Pharmacy

  • The cream changes colour or separates — bring it in or call before using it again.
  • You are not sure how many pumps your dose is, or where it should be applied.
  • Side effects are bothering you or are not settling.
  • You are running low — compounded pain creams are prepared to order, so plan refills a few days ahead.