Let's learn more about topical anesthetics.

Have you ever been bitten by an ant or had a small wound and the area was very painful and itchy, and you bought a cream from a pharmacy and applied it? Once you apply it, the pain and itching disappear in a short time, right? We call such medicines that are applied to the surface of the skin and temporarily numb the area, Topical Anesthetics. These are not injections, but things that are applied to the surface. This is what we are talking about today.

Simply put, what is a topical anesthetic?

A topical anesthetic is a type of local anesthetic that, when applied to the surface of your body, temporarily numbs the area. Simply put, it temporarily numbs the area. This relieves symptoms such as pain and itching. The word 'topical' means "on the surface." This means that it is applied to the surface of the body.

These are used not only on the skin of the body, but also on areas with mucous membranes. For example:

• For your mouth and gums
• Inside the nose, throat, and ears
• For the eyes
• In relation to the anus and vagina

These medications come in a variety of forms. You may have seen these:

• Creams
• Ear drops
• Eye drops
• Gels
• Lotions
• Ointments
• Patches
• Solutions
• Sprays

Are there types of these?

Yes, there are two main types. One is the types that you can buy at a pharmacy without a prescription (Over-the-counter - OTC). The other type is the stronger types that doctors use for various minor medical procedures.

Here are some of the most commonly used types of topical anesthetics:

• Benzocaine
• Dibucaine
• Lidocaine
• Phenol
• Pramoxine
• Prilocaine

These medications often come with other active ingredients. For example, they may contain hydrocortisone to reduce itching, or menthol to provide a cooling sensation . This depends on the purpose for which the medication is formulated.

What do we use these for?

These are used for many things. We use them at home, and doctors use them in hospitals.

Occasions for use at home

Here are some cases where you can buy them from a pharmacy and use them at home:

• Insect bites: For the pain and itching caused by a mosquito bite, a wasp sting, or an ant bite.
• Minor burns: For minor burns, such as those caused by a splash of hot water, and for the pain caused by sunburn.
• Minor cuts and scrapes:The pain that comes with a slight cut on the skin, like a bruise.
• Skin Rashes : For rashes caused by contact with certain plants.
• Hemorrhoids: For the pain and discomfort caused by hemorrhoids.
• Sore throat: Some sprays and lozenges that relieve sore throats contain these.
• Canker sores: Painful sores in the mouth.
• Vaginal yeast infections: Relieve the itching and discomfort caused by these.

Cases used by doctors

Doctors use these for various tests and treatments. Sometimes they use them alone, other times they rub them on the area to numb it before giving an injection.

How does this medicine work?

It's very simple. The nerve endings in your skin or mucosa send signals to your brain about pain, itching, and touch. When you apply this medicine, it temporarily blocks the signals from those nerve endings to your brain. It's like blocking the path that carries the message. Then you don't feel anything in that area, that is, you get numb. But this only happens in the superficial layers of the area where the medicine was applied.

Things to be careful about when using these

Even if you buy an over-the-counter (OTC) medication, you should read the instructions carefully before using it. It will clearly state how much to apply and how often. If in doubt, ask your doctor.

When finished using these medications, store them safely out of the reach of children and pets .

Are there any side effects?

Most of the time, these are safe. But like any medicine, they can have side effects. The risk of side effects is especially high if you use too much or if you ingest them.

If you develop a minor allergic reaction, stop using the medicine. If symptoms persist, see a doctor.

When do you need to see a doctor?

You should definitely see a doctor in the following cases:

• If your condition does not improve after 7 days of taking the medicine or if it gets worse.
• If a skin infection occurs (e.g. pus, excessive redness, warmth).
• If you, especially a child, ingest this medicine , immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Also, see a doctor as soon as possible.

Topical anesthetics are a very useful type of medication that provides temporary relief from minor pain and itching. But like any medication, it is important to use them exactly as directed.