LIDOCAINE,PRILOCAINE

Background and Date of Approval

Lidocaine + Prilocaine is a local anesthetic medication developed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and initially approved for local pain relief.

Uses

Lidocaine + Prilocaine is used to treat topically (on the skin) to numb the skin or mucous membranes before certain medical procedures or minor surgeries. They can also reduce pain or discomfort associated with certain skin conditions.

How is it administered?

Lidocaine + Prilocaine should only be used under the supervision of a doctor or nurse. For surface skin procedures, your physician will apply a generous amount of the cream or gel to cover the area. Gently rub or massage it into the skin, and ensure it remains in contact with the skin for the recommended duration.

Side Effects

The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Lidocaine + Prilocaine are skin reactions, allergic reactions, and methemoglobinemia.

Warnings

Do not take Lidocaine + Prilocaine if you are allergic to it, other similar local anesthetics, or any other ingredients in the cream. Avoid getting this cream in your eyes, as it can cause irritation. If this cream accidentally comes into contact with your eye, rinse it thoroughly with lukewarm water or a salt (sodium chloride) solution. Avoid exposing your eye to anything until the sensation returns. Before using this cream, notify your physician if you or your child have a rare inherited illness called 'glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency.' This condition affects blood and may require special consideration when using this cream.

Precautions

Do not use this cream on areas with skin rash, cuts, scrapes, or other open wounds, except for leg ulcers. If any of these issues are present, consult your physician before using the cream. If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby, it's essential to consult your physician before using this cream. Some active substances in Lidocaine + Prilocaine can be passed into breast milk. However, the amount that transfers is very small and generally considered safe for breastfeeding infants.

Word of Advice

While the area is numb, exercise caution to avoid accidental injury or damage to the numbed skin or mucous membranes. For instance, avoid biting your lip or cheek if Lidocaine + Prilocaine is applied inside your mouth. If numbness prevents immediate eating or drinking after a procedure, maintaining hydration remains important. Sipping water regularly helps prevent dehydration. As dehydration can lead to further complications, prioritise hydration even when sensation in your mouth or throat is diminished.

References

AstraZeneca UK Limited, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on Feb 2021] [Accessed on 5th Sep 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.7994.pdf IGI Laboratories Inc., US Food & Drug Administration, [Revised on Nov 2018] [Accessed on 5th Sep 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/019941s021lbl.pdf Stefan Lillieborg, et al., EMLA anaesthetic cream for debridement of burns: a study of plasma concentrations of Lidocaine + Prilocaine and a review of the literature, Int J Burn Trauma 2017, 7(6), 88-97, [Accessed on 5th Sep 2023], http://www.ijbt.org/files/ijbt0065151.pdf L. Peng et al., Local dermal application of a compound lidocaine cream in pain management of cancer wounds, Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research, 2019, 52(11), [Accessed on 5th Sep 2023], https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6853073/pdf/1414-431X-bjmbr-52-11-e8567.pdf KD Tripathi, Local Anaesthetics, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition, 2019, 386-398.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the numbing effect of Lidocaine + Prilocaine last?

The duration of numbness varies but typically lasts for about 1 to 2 hours after application of Lidocaine + Prilocaine. It may vary based on the specific formulation and concentration used.

Can I use Lidocaine + Prilocaine for tattoos or piercings?

Lidocaine + Prilocaine are sometimes used to reduce pain during tattooing or piercing procedures, but it's essential to consult with a physician and follow their guidance for proper application.

How should I apply Lidocaine + Prilocaine?

You should apply a thin layer of the Lidocaine + Prilocaine to the area to be numbed, ensuring that it covers the entire surface. It's important to avoid using excessive amounts. Overuse can lead to complications.

What are Lidocaine + Prilocaine used for?

Lidocaine + Prilocaine is commonly used to numb the skin before procedures such as needle insertion, minor skin surgery, tattoo removal, or laser therapy.

How do Lidocaine + Prilocaine work?

Lidocaine + Prilocaine work by blocking nerve signals in the body. They inhibit the transmission of pain signals from the nerves to the brain, resulting in temporary numbness in the treated area.

Written By: Muskan Patel, M.Pharm

Reviewed By: Dr. Vishwa Patel, MBBS