Topical anesthetic (On the skin)

Introduction:

Treats pain in a certain body area. Also used to numb (decrease feeling in) an area before a procedure.

Brand Name(s):

Lidoderm, AnaMantle HC, LidaZone HC, Emla, Lida Mantle HC, Lida Mantle Hc, Caladryl Clear, Orajel Baby, Pontocaine HCl, Pontocaine, Phenol EZ Swabs, Bactine, Xylocaine, Ulcerease, Dobell's Solution

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

Do not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to any numbing medicine in the past, such as lidocaine or benzocaine. You should not take this medicine if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the ingredients in the medicine you are using.

How to Use This Medicine:

Spray, Ointment, Gel/Jelly, Cream, Liquid, Lotion, Swab, Dressing, Pad, Patch

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
  • The medicine may come with patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
  • Do not get this medicine in your eyes, nose, or ears. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away. Some forms of this medicine should not be used on broken skin or inside the vagina or rectum. If you are not sure of the body areas where you can use this medicine, ask your pharmacist.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine. Follow your doctor's instructions about how to clean and care for your skin before and after you use this medicine.
  • For the cream, lotion, or ointment: Apply a thin layer to the affected area. Rub it in gently. You may need to shake the bottle of liquid, spray, or lotion before using it.
  • This medicine may come with a special applicator (a tool for applying the medicine), or with a special dressing to go over the medicine. Make sure you understand how to use the applicator or dressing. If you are not sure, ask your pharmacist.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you are using this medicine on a regular schedule: If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, apply it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to apply the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not put in the refrigerator, and do not freeze.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine container and any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Topical anesthetic medicines have different ingredients, depending on the type and brand of medicine it is. The drugs or food you may need to avoid depends on the specific topical anesthetic medicine you are using. Make sure your doctor knows about all other medicines you are using.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • If you are pregnant or breast feeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
  • Some forms of this medicine should not be used in children under the age of 2 years old, unless a doctor says it is OK.
  • Do not use this medicine for more than 7 days unless your doctor or dentist tells you to.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Blurred or double vision.
  • Confusion, dizziness, lightheadedness, or drowsiness.
  • Chest pain, or an uneven heartbeat.
  • Skin rash.
  • Swelling in the area where this medicine is applied.
  • Trembling (shaking).

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Skin irritation, itching, redness, or pain.
  • Symptoms that do not improve in 7 days, or symptoms that get worse.
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