貼り薬

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: The spelling is 貼り薬, read as はりぐすり. It is a noun for a medicated patch applied to the skin so its active ingredient can work through the covered area.
• Basic usage: Using a prescribed patch appears in 貼り薬を使う, while removing the patch appears in 貼り薬を剥がす.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Difference from 飲み薬
  • It is applied directly to the skin rather than taken by mouth.