RHINEBECK, N.Y. — Topical BioMedics Inc. has been awarded a patent for Topricin Pain Relief and Healing Cream as a treatment for pain associated with fibromyalgia.

The company said more than 5 million people, mostly women, suffer from fibromyalgia, which is characterized by chronic, widespread pain in muscles, ligaments and tendons; multiple "tender points," fatigue and sleep disturbances. Other symptoms include numbness and tingling, irritable bowel syndrome, palpitations, and tension or migraine headaches. The soft tissue pain of fibromyalgia is described as deep aching, radiating, gnawing, shooting or burning, and it ranges from mild to severe.

A Food and Drug Administration-regulated topical biomedicine, Topricin Pain Relief and Healing Cream is designed to bring a soothing combination of homeopathic medicines to rapidly relieve pain and help the body heal the damage that is causing pain, according to Topical BioMedics. Paraben- and petroleum-free, the natural pain reliever does not have any known side effects, has no contraindications and will not interfere with any other medications, the compay said. It also does not contain any harsh chemicals or irritants, and it is greaseless and odorless, making it safe for even the most sensitive skin.

"Topricin has been effective in resolving pain for the many women suffering with fibromyalgia, with many reporting they have more energy, are staying more active and that it has helped to reduce or eliminate their dependency on oral pain medications," Lou Paradise, Topical BioMedics chief executive officer and product formulator, said in a statement. "This is good news, as commonly prescribed medications include antidepressants, such as Cymbalta, and anti-convulsants, such as Lyrica, which have serious and potentially life-threatening side effects. It is our company mission to provide self-help options that offer safe and effective pain relief."

Topricin is sold at chain pharmacies, food and drug retailers, and natural food and vitamin stores. Besides the Pain Relief and Healing Cream, products in the Topricin line include classic Topricin, Topricin Foot Therapy Cream and Topricin Junior for children.