Sometimes, when you have a small wound, skin inflammation, or other minor pain, your doctor may have prescribed a numbing cream to the area. Lidocaine is a popular medication that is often prescribed at such times. It comes in the form of a cream as well as an ointment. So today, let's talk about this Lidocaine cream, how to use it, and what precautions you should take.
What kind of medicine is Lidocaine?
Simply put, Lidocaine is a medicine that temporarily numbs the area of your skin where you feel pain. When it's applied, it stops the nerves in that area from sending pain messages to your brain. Just like a doctor numbs your gums before extracting a tooth, this cream blocks the sensation of pain in your skin. In medical terms, we call these 'local anesthetics.'
This medicine may come under different brand names. Also, sometimes doctors may prescribe it for other uses as well. So if you have any questions, ask your doctor.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Okay, now this is the most important part. Before you use this cream, there are a few things you should definitely tell your doctor about. Because using this medicine with certain medical conditions can be dangerous.
| Illness or condition | Why should you inform the doctor? |
|---|---|
| G6PD deficiency | This is a condition that some people are born with. This medicine can cause problems. |
| Increased levels of methemoglobin in the blood | This is a blood-related condition, and Lidocaine can make it more serious. |
| Heart disease | If you have any heart condition, it is essential to seek medical advice before using this medicine. |
| Large areas of burned or damaged skin | When the skin is damaged, the medicine is absorbed into the body more quickly, increasing the risk of side effects. |
| Lung diseases | It is important to inform your doctor if you have any lung-related conditions. |
| Allergies to Lidocaine or other medications/foods | Be sure to tell us if you have had any previous allergies to any medicine, food, or dye. |
| Being pregnant or expecting a baby | Medical advice should be sought before using any medication during pregnancy. |
| Breastfeeding the baby | Talk to your doctor about whether the medicine can pass to your baby through breast milk. |
How do you use Lidocaine cream correctly?
This is very simple to use, but it is very important to do it correctly.
- First, wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after applying the medicine.
- Apply the medicine only to the area you want to apply it to, using your fingertips or a clean cotton ball .
- Just use it as directed by the doctor, and only as often as directed. Never use too much at any time.
- Do not apply this in the eyes, inside the nose, inside the mouth, or on cuts.
If you are using this for small children...
Children require special care when using this medicine. Therefore, be sure to consult a pediatrician before using this on a child.
Warning: Overdose
If you suspect that you or someone else has taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Do not take this lightly.
Also, remember, this medicine is for you only. Do not share your medicine with others, even if someone else has the same symptoms as you.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take it at the next scheduled time. Never take a double dose at once.
Are there other things that could interact with this medication?
Since this cream is usually applied directly to the skin, it is unlikely to cause any major problems with other medications. However, it is safest to tell your doctor about any other medications, vitamins, traditional medicines, or Ayurvedic remedies you are taking. Also, tell your doctor if you smoke or drink alcohol.
Things to be careful about when using the medicine
The biggest thing about this is that when you apply this cream, the area will feel numb. That means you won't feel the pain in that area. Therefore, when that area is numb, there is a greater chance of getting injured, cut, or burned. Because you won't feel it. Imagine if you apply this on your hand and touch something hot with that same hand, you won't feel the burn. So you have to be very careful.
If your symptoms do not improve, or if they worsen, be sure to see your doctor again.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, Lidocaine can cause side effects in some people. Some of them are serious, while others are mild.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips, face, tongue or throat. |
| Symptoms of Methemoglobinemia | Headache, extreme fatigue, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, blue skin or lips. This is a serious condition. |
| Changes in heart rate | Fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, feeling faint, chest pain, difficulty breathing. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Minor skin changes | Mild burning, redness, or dryness of the skin where the medicine was applied. Tell your doctor if these persist or are bothersome. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience any other unusual symptoms, talk to your doctor.
How to protect and remove the medicine?
- Keep this out of the reach of small children and pets .
- It is best to store it at room temperature (between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius).
- Expired medications should be disposed of. Do not throw them in the trash. It is best to ask your doctor for advice on how to dispose of them safely.
Take-Home Message
- Always use Lidocaine cream as prescribed by your doctor, in the prescribed amount and for the prescribed number of times.
- Tell your doctor about all other medical conditions you have and all other medications you are taking.
- Since the area where the cream was applied is numb, be sure to protect the area from burns, cuts, or other injuries.
- If you experience a serious side effect such as an allergic reaction, difficulty breathing, or a change in your heart rate, go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
- Keep this medicine out of the reach of small children and pets.
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