What is ZTlido?
ZTlido is a topical non-opioid patch that treats post-herpetic neuralgia with lidocaine, a medication that numbs pain. ZTlido will be available as a 1.8% (36 mg) lidocaine patch. Patients are directed to apply the ZTlido patch to intact skin, covering the area of their body that is in the most pain.
What is post-herpetic neuralgia?
Post-herpetic neuralgia (PNH) is a complication of shingles that affects the nerve fibers and skin. Symptoms include pain and burning that lasts more than three months in the same area as the rash, and skin sensitivity to touch or temperature.
Are there any other alternatives for post-herpetic neuralgia?
Yes. Post-herpetic neuralgia can be treated with alternatives to ZTlido like Qutenza (capsaicin) and Lidoderm (lidocaine).
ZTlido patches are unique in that they contain a smaller amount of lidocaine but deliver medication to the patient more efficiently. So, even though Lidoderm (lidocaine) patches come with 700 mg of lidocaine and ZTlido patches only have 36 mg, both administer the same amount of lidocaine to the patient. This reduces drug waste and increases safety after drug disposal.
Does ZTlido have any side effects?
Yes. Common side effects of ZTlido include skin blisters, bruising, depigmentation, dermatitis, edema, erosion and flushing. These reactions are generally mild and resolve within a few minutes to hours.
Can I cut my ZTlido patch into smaller pieces?
Yes! While you should not cut most other patches, you can save on ZTlido by cutting it into smaller pieces. It’s also safe to cut Lidoderm (lidocaine), another alternative for post-herpetic neuralgia.
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