Have you ever used a cream or spray to quickly relieve the pain of a minor cut, burn, or insect bite? Sometimes doctors use this to numb the area before a minor medical procedure, such as stitching up a small cut in the skin. Lidocaine is a drug that temporarily numbs the skin and relieves pain. Today, we'll talk about Lidocaine in more detail, because it's very important to use it correctly.
What kind of medicine is `(Lidocaine)`?
Simply put, Lidocaine is a local anesthetic . This means that when this medicine is applied, it numbs the skin and surrounding tissues. More precisely, it temporarily stops the nerves in that area from sending pain messages to the brain. This is why we don't feel pain.
This is mainly used for:
- Prevent pain before minor medical procedures.
- Reduce the pain and itching caused by minor skin burns, scrapes, and insect bites.
Sometimes, doctors may use this medicine for other things as well. So if you have any questions, it's best to ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Imagine, your little one gets a little scratched while playing, or is bitten by an ant and is crying a lot. At that time, if a doctor recommends, applying a little bit of this `(Lidocaine)` cream will reduce the pain. That's how it works.
Some brand names available in the market:
This medicine `(Lidocaine)` can come under different trade names. For example, you may have heard of `(Xylocaine Topical Solution)`, `(ALOCANE)`, `(Aspercreme with Lidocaine)`. But no matter what name it comes under, the main ingredient is `(Lidocaine)`, and the action is the same.
What should I tell the doctor before using this medicine?
Before you are prescribed `(Lidocaine)`, there are a few things your medical team should be aware of. It is very important to tell them this, because it will ensure your safety.
- If you have heart disease .
- If you have any infected, injured, or broken areas on your skin (it is not advisable to apply to such areas).
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction or unusual reaction to Lidocaine, other anesthetics, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives.
- If you are pregnant , or trying to get pregnant.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
Once you have these facts, your doctor can advise you on whether this medication is right for you or not, and how to use it safely.
How should I use `(Lidocaine)`?
This medicine is usually only meant to be applied to the skin . However, in some special cases, in a hospital or clinic, a healthcare professional may apply it to the mouth, nose, or throat (for example, to numb the throat before a test such as an endoscopy).
If you are using it at home, be sure to follow the directions on the prescription or package label exactly. Apply only the prescribed amount at the prescribed time. Never use more than your doctor tells you to.
Regarding use in young children:
If you are using this medicine on your child, you should talk to your pediatrician about it. Although it can be prescribed to children in some selected cases, there are special precautions. Do not give these to young children without a doctor's advice.
Overdosage:
If you think you have taken more of this medicine than you should, call a poison control center or the nearest emergency room immediately. This is very important.
Please note: This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with anyone else. What works for you may not work for someone else, and may even be harmful to them.
What to do if you miss a dose?
This is not a medication that is usually taken at the same time every day. Since it is used only when needed, the term "missing a dose" does not apply to this.
What other things can interact with this medicine? (`Interactions`)
There are some medications that can interact with `(Lidocaine)`. Specifically:
- Medicines to control heart rhythm
This list does not include all possible interactions. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (prescribed or over-the-counter), herbal products, vitamins, and dietary supplements you are taking. You should also tell your doctor if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some of these things can interact with your medication.
Things to keep in mind when using this medicine
This is very important. Since the area is numbed when the lidocaine is applied, you will not feel any pain. Therefore, you must be careful not to injure or injure the area.
- For example, if you apply this to your arm or leg, you could accidentally bump it somewhere, causing a bruise or cut. So be mindful of that.
- If you have used this medicine in your mouth or throat, do not chew gum or eat for at least an hour. Because the area is numb, you may not be able to swallow properly and may choke, or your tongue or cheek may bite.
- Also, hot food and drinks can burn your mouth, because you don't feel the heat. So be careful about that too.
What are the possible side effects of `(Lidocaine)`?
Like any medicine, Lidocaine can cause some side effects. Some of these are serious, while others are usually not serious.
Side effects that should be reported to your doctor or healthcare professional immediately:
- Allergic reactions: Skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. If you notice anything like this, you should see a doctor immediately.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Vision changes (like blurred vision).
- Feeling cold and feverish.
- Confusion, excessive agitation, restlessness, restless behavior.
- Dizziness, drowsiness.
- Headache.
- Irregular heartbeat.
- Nausea, vomiting.
- Seizures ( fit-like).
- Tremors.
If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the medicine and tell a doctor as soon as possible.
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (but should be reported to your doctor if they persist or are bothersome):
- Numbness where the medicine was applied. (This is to be expected, but it can be a little uncomfortable for some people).
This list may not include all side effects. If you notice anything different, ask your doctor about it. You can also report side effects to the FDA (in the US, 1-800-FDA-1088). In Sri Lanka, you can report them to your doctor or the Drug Regulatory Authority.
How should I store my medicine?
This is also very important.
- Keep them out of the reach of children. It can be dangerous if small children put these in their mouths or chew on them.
- Store at room temperature (between 15 and 30 degrees Celsius / 59 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit). Do not store in extremely hot or cold places.
- Throw away any unused medicine that has passed its expiration date. Using expired medicine will do no good, and may even cause harm.
Finally, what to remember (Take-Home Message)
Lidocaine is a very useful medication that temporarily relieves pain and numbness in the skin. However, it is essential to use it properly and responsibly.
- Always follow your doctor's instructions. Do not use more than the recommended amount or frequency.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about any other illnesses you have, any other medications you take, and any allergies you have.
- Take care of the numb area after applying the medicine.
- If you notice any unusual side effects, tell your doctor immediately.
- Store medicines properly, out of the reach of children.
This leaflet is only a summary. It may not contain all the information. If you have any further questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. They will be able to help you. Stay healthy!
` Lidocaine, Lidocaine, Skin pain, Numbness, Local Anesthetic, Local Anesthetic, Side effects
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