Mint pain killer could save the NHS millions

Published on Monday 2 February 2009 08:52

RESEARCH being carried out at Edinburgh University has suggested that a pain-killing cream containing mint could save the NHS millions of pounds.

Tens of thousands of people across Scotland are believed to suffer from neuropathic pain which is caused by damage to the nerve endings.

However early findings from the Capital's researchers suggest that a cream containing a small amount of mint could relieve this pain more effectively than many drugs currently available.

The cream could cost just 10 a month – compared to several hundred pounds spent per month for current medications.

The researchers hope to recruit around 40 patients to take part in the new study, particularly those undergoing cancer treatment which can cause neuropathic pain.

It is hoped that the cream, if successful, could be widely available within the next two years.