Ulcer patch that works from inside the mouth

THE treatment of painful mouth ulcers could soon be revolutionised with a steroidlaced plaster that is stuck directly over the sores.

At the moment, ulcers are treated with creams, gels or mouthwashes, which can become ineffective because of eating, drinking and saliva.

But the new plaster, which moulds itself to the inside of the patient’s mouth, is made with polymers that can stick to moist surfaces for a long time. It also forms a protective barrier that accelerates healing.

Ulcers can range from 2mm to 10mm in diameter and last from two to six weeks, appearing in

‘Particularly effective’

clusters of up to 30 at a time. Dr Craig Murdoch, who is leading the research at the University of Sheffield, said: ‘Chronic inflammatory conditions that cause erosive and painful oral lesions have a considerable impact on quality of life.

‘Current treatments are often ineffective due to inadequate drug contact times with the lesion.

‘The patch acts like a plaster inside your mouth, which means it is very effective at directly targeting the specific area as well as forming a protective barrier.’

The plaster will soon start phase-two trials in the UK and US.

Dr Murdoch added: ‘Patients who have trialled the patch found it to be very comfortable to wear. The length of adhesion makes it particularly effective and efficient.’