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This measure supports cost saving work in hospitals.
This measure supports work to reduce low value prescribing in hospitals.
Total lidocaine plasters issued
We display the total number of lidocaine plasters issued
NHS England guidance identifies a number of items which provide low value when prescribed. This guidance has mainly been aimed at primary care but we think it is important to also monitor a selection of these in hospitals - read more about why in our blog.
NHS England guidance states:
Lidocaine plasters are licensed for symptomatic relief of neuropathic pain associated with previous herpes zoster infection (PHN) in adults.
NICE guidance on chronic pain does not recommend lidocaine plasters for treating neuropathic pain.
The Specialist Pharmacy Service carried out an evidence review on behalf of NHS England to inform the joint clinical working group’s recommendations. Based on this review, lidocaine plasters can be prescribed only for patients who are intolerant of first-line systemic therapies for PHN or where these therapies have been ineffective.
Lidocaine plasters are not an alternative to an opioid-based medicine when concerned about dependence and withdrawal.
NHS England recommend that GPs:
For guidance on when prescribing may be appropriate in some exceptional circumstances, please see the full NHS England guidance document.
Trusts are only included in this measure if they have issued any products included in the denominator for this measure.
For this measure, 217/227 Trusts are included. A full list of Trusts included is available on the Submission History page.