Versatis (local anaesthetic) patch

What is a Versatis patch?

Versatis is the brand name of a medicated patch which contains lidocaine. Lidocaine belongs to a group of medicines known as local anaesthetics, which work by temporarily blocking the pathways of pain signals along the nerves.

What is it used for?

For the relief of localised pain caused by damage to, or irritation of the nerves. Nerve or neuropathic pain is often described as a burning, shooting or stabbing pain.

How does the patch work?

In nerve or neuropathic pain the nerves are sending scrambled or amplified messages to the brain. When nerve damage or irritation is localised to one area, applying a Versatis patch containing lidocaine can help. The lidocaine (pain killer) seeps through the skin into the damaged or irritated nerves and reduces the number of scrambled or amplified messages sent to the brain.

You will notice by looking at the patch that it is quite well padded. If you have very sensitive skin, which is painful to touch or changes in temperature, the Versatis patch can help protect this sensitive skin. The lidocaine medication provides sustained long term pain relief and there is the cooling effect from the hydrogel patch.

How do I use the patches?

The patches should be used on unbroken, clean and dry skin. Do not use any creams or lotions before applying the patch.

If the painful area of skin has hair on it, you can cut the hairs using scissors. Do not shave the hairs as it may irritate the skin and make the pain worse.

Do not use straight after a bath or shower; allow the skin to cool off before applying the patch.

Press the patch onto the skin and hold for at least 10 seconds to make sure the patch sticks firmly. Make sure that all of it sticks to your skin, including the edges.

Wear the patch for a maximum of 12 hours on and 12 hours off.

When should I use the patches?

Use the patch when the pain is at its worst. Iif the pain is worse at night then you may find that this is the best time to use the patch.

How long will it take for the patch to work?

It is important to remember that nerve pain ‘builds up’, so it may take time to feel like it is working. You may need to continue treatment with Versatis for at least 2 to 4 weeks before any benefit is felt because it takes time for the body to respond.

Can this medication affect other medicines I take?

It is important to tell your doctor what medication you are taking including herbal medicines or those bought without prescription. Because Versatis is a treatment is applied to the skin, very little of the active ingredient (lidocaine) gets into the blood stream, therefore Versatis can be used alongside other treatments that relieve nerve pain.

Are there any side effects?

Medications affect individual people in different ways. Most people using this medication will experience no side effects. Some side effects may include:

• rash
• itching
• burning
• blisters
• irritation
• allergic reaction
• skin injury

Frequently asked questions

How do I remove the patch?

Remove the pack slowly and gently. If it is difficult to remove, soak with warm water for a few minutes. Fold the used patch in half, with the sticky sides together and throw them away so that they are out of the reach of children and pets.

What if I forget to remove the patch after 12 hours?

As soon as you remember then remove the old patch. Do not reapply again until 12 hours from removal.

What if I forget to use the patch?

If you have forgotten then as soon as you remember stick on a new patch.

Can I cut the patch?

Yes it is possible to cut the patch to shape without losing the beneficial effects.

What if the patch comes off?

The patch should not come off, but if it does try sticking it back on the same area. If it does not stay on, remove it and put a new patch in the same area remembering to remove it as though it were the old patch.