Do you have a minor injury or insect bite that is really painful? Maybe it's a minor burn? At times like these, your doctor may tell you to use a pad containing a drug called Lidocaine. When you see this, you may be thinking, "What is this? Will this really reduce pain? Is it something you should be afraid to use?" Don't worry about anything. Today, we'll talk about everything about these Lidocaine pads, very simply.
Simply put, what is Lidocaine?
Lidocaine is a numbing agent. Medically speaking, it is an anesthetic. Think of it like a small wire (nerve) that carries pain messages from your skin to your brain. What Lidocaine does is temporarily block those nerves in the area. Then you don't feel pain or itching.
That's why this medicine is used for things like:
- Minor burns
- Scratches and minor injuries
- Pain and itching caused by insect bites
- Pain or itching caused by other skin conditions
This can be purchased from pharmacies under various brand names, but they all contain the same drug, Lidocaine.
Things you need to tell your doctor before using this medicine
As with any medication, it is important to inform your doctor about your medical history before using Lidocaine. Be sure to tell them about any of the conditions below.
| Health status | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| Allergy to lidocaine or other anesthetics | If you have had an allergic reaction to this type of medication before, you may have a severe reaction again. |
| Heart Disease | Caution should be exercised when using Lidocaine in certain heart conditions. |
| Liver or Kidney Disease | Because these organs are involved in the process of removing drugs from the body, if their function is impaired, drugs can accumulate in the body. |
| G6PD Deficiency | This is a hereditary blood condition. Some medications may be harmful to people with this condition. |
| Burns or wounds on a large area of skin | If you apply these to a large area of broken skin, more of the medicine can be absorbed into the body. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or are a breastfeeding mother | During these times, it is imperative to consult a doctor before using any medication. |
Okay, now let's see how to use this exactly.
This is very simple, but it's important to do it right.
1. Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before handling the belt and after you have finished applying it.
2. Clean the skin: Keep the area where the medicine will be applied clean and dry.
3. Apply the bandage: Apply the bandage to the appropriate area according to the instructions on the package or as directed by your doctor.
4. Do not let it get into your eyes: This is very harmful to your eyes. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, immediately rinse your eyes with clean water for several minutes.
5. For external use only: Do not drink this, put it in your mouth, or use it inside any other part of your body. This is a medicine that is only for application to the skin.
6. Don't overdo it: Don't use it more often than the doctor tells you to. Don't go for a long time because you think the pain is too much.
If given to young children: Doctors sometimes recommend this even for children over 2 years old. However, be sure to talk to your pediatrician about it and follow his or her advice.
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 is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take it at the next scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
What if you take too much medicine? (Overdose)
If you think you have taken too much medicine, or if a small child has put it in their mouth, you should take immediate action. Go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) as soon as possible. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Let's also know about the side effects?
Most people do not experience serious side effects, but it is important to be aware of the possible side effects.
If you experience these symptoms, see a doctor immediately!
If you experience any of the symptoms below, stop using the medicine and see a doctor as soon as possible.
| Side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
|---|---|
| Severe Allergic Reactions | Skin rash, hives, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. |
| Methemoglobinemia | This is very important. Difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, blue/gray mouth, lips, or fingernails , extreme tiredness, fainting. |
| Changes in heart rate | Chest pain, dizziness, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat. |
| Other serious symptoms | Vision changes, confusion, seizures, tremors. |
Commonly seen side effects
These are usually not serious, but if they persist or bother you, tell your doctor.
- A slight numbness, burning, or tingling sensation where the medicine was applied.
Be careful with these things when using them.
- Be careful of the numb area: When the medicine is applied and numb, you don't feel any pain in that area. Therefore, there is a high chance of accidentally injuring, cutting, or burning that area. So be careful of that.
- Does Lidocaine cream interact with other medications?: Lidocaine creams generally do not cause any major problems with other medications. However, tell your doctor about all medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies). Do not apply any other creams or ointments to the area where Lidocaine is applied without first asking your doctor.
- Medicine storage: Keep out of reach of children and pets. Store at room temperature (between 15-30 Celsius). Discard expired medicine.
Take-Home Message
- Lidocaine is a medicine that temporarily relieves pain and itching on the surface of the skin, causing a tingling sensation.
- This is for external use only. Do not put it in your mouth or drink it for any reason.
- Always tell your doctor about your other illnesses and medications you are taking.
- If your lips or fingernails turn blue/gray after applying the medicine, if you have difficulty breathing, or if you develop a severe allergic reaction, seek medical advice immediately.
- Be careful not to injure the sensitive skin. Keep it safe and out of reach of children.
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