Lidocaine 5% medicated plaster (Versatis®)* is licensed for the symptomatic relief of neuropathic pain associated with previous herpes zoster (shingles) infection known as post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) in adults. 

The HSE Medicines Management Programme (MMP) has reviewed the evidence available to support the use of lidocaine 5% medicated plaster (Versatis®). (A further review was conducted in 2021 to update clinical evidence relevant to the use of lidocaine medicated plaster.)

MMP Prescribing and Cost Guidance report on lidocaine 5% medicated plaster (PDF, 720 KB, 21 pages)

Following this review and based on best practice recommendations, the Primary Care Reimbursement Service (PCRS) introduced changes to the reimbursement of lidocaine 5% medicated plaster from 1 September 2017. This process supports appropriate use of this medication while ensuring those with an indication of PHN continue to have access to this treatment.

Prescribing “Tips and Tools” are available to guide appropriate use of lidocaine 5% medicated plaster and offer topical treatment alternatives for both PHN and other types of pain.

Prescribing “Tips and Tools” for lidocaine 5% medicated plaster (PDF, 467 KB, 2 pages)

Questions and Answers for healthcare professionals are available to explain the reimbursement process for new and existing patients on lidocaine 5% medicated plaster.

Questions and Answers for healthcare professionals (PDF, 230 KB, 4 pages)

Information for patients is also available to explain the changes in relation to lidocaine 5% medicated plaster.

Information for patients Lidocaine 5%.pdf (PDF, 225.8 KB, 2 pages)

Letter from Medicines Management Programme to Prescribers

Letter from MMP in relation to lidocaine 5% medicated plaster (PDF, 211 KB, 1 page)

*The brand name of this product has now been changed to Versatis 700mg medicated plaster.

An average of 1,731 patients were accessing lidocaine medicated plasters each month under the Community Drug Schemes in 2023. Click here for more information.