Emla

lidocaine + prilocaine

Brand(s):

• Prilox

Manufacturer:

• NEON Laboratories Limited

Disease(s):

• Surgery On Genitals / Surgery On Vagina / Surgery On Penis / Minor Surgery

Lidocaine and Prilocaine Topical: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Lidocaine and Prilocaine Topical?

Lidocaine and prilocaine topical is a combination of two local anesthetics—lidocaine and prilocaine. These medications work by temporarily blocking nerve signals, creating a numbing effect on the skin. This topical cream is specifically used to numb the skin of the penis or vagina, preparing patients for minor surgical procedures or medical examinations in these areas. It's important to note that this medication is only for external use and should not be ingested.

Important Information for Your Healthcare Professional

Before using lidocaine and prilocaine topical, it's crucial to inform your doctor about your medical history. This medication should be avoided if you have a known allergy to any type of numbing medicine.

Serious complications, even death, have been reported in cases where numbing medicines were used improperly, especially outside of a medically supervised setting such as in some cosmetic procedures (e.g., laser hair removal) or even during medical procedures like mammograms. Always ensure your procedure is performed by a qualified medical professional.

It's vital to disclose the following information to your doctor before starting treatment:

• A history of methemoglobinemia (a blood disorder).

• Any existing liver disease.

• A diagnosis of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency.

• Family history of methemoglobinemia or any genetic enzyme deficiencies.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also consult their doctors before using lidocaine and prilocaine topical. While it's categorized as FDA pregnancy category B (meaning it's not expected to harm the fetus), it's essential to discuss the risks and benefits with your physician. The medication can pass into breast milk and may pose a risk to nursing infants.

How to Use Lidocaine and Prilocaine Topical

Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions carefully. Never exceed the recommended dosage. Application typically occurs at home, several hours before a procedure. The precise amount and application time will be determined by your doctor. Ask for clarification if you are unsure about any aspect of the instructions.

Use only the minimum amount necessary to achieve adequate numbing. Overuse, application to large skin areas, or applying heat, bandages, or plastic wrap to treated areas increases the risk of absorption and potential overdose. Damaged or irritated skin absorbs topical medication more readily than healthy skin.

Covering the treated area may be necessary to maintain the numbing effect, but only do so if your doctor explicitly instructs you to. Children require careful dosing based on their weight, and adult supervision is essential when administering the medication to a child.

Potential Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Certain medications may interact with lidocaine and prilocaine topical, potentially leading to adverse effects. Specifically, mention the use of any of the following:

• Chloroquine, dapsone, nitrofurantoin, isosorbide dinitrate, nitroglycerin, nitroprusside, quinine.

• Heart rhythm medications (e.g., amiodarone, dofetilide, dronedarone, mexiletine, sotalol, tocainide).

• Seizure medications (e.g., phenobarbital, phenytoin, primaquine).

• Sulfa drugs (e.g., Bactrim, Septra, SMX-TMP or SMZ-TMP).

This is not an exhaustive list of potential interactions; discuss all medications with your healthcare provider.

Monitoring for Adverse Effects

A lidocaine and prilocaine topical overdose can have life-threatening consequences if excessive amounts are absorbed through the skin. Symptoms include irregular heartbeat, seizures, coma, slowed breathing, and respiratory failure. Always adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage. Avoid excessive application and covering the treated area with bandages or plastic wrap unless specifically instructed by your doctor.

Keep the cream away from your eyes. Rinse with water immediately if accidental contact occurs. Do not ingest. The medication is solely for external skin application. Avoid injuring numbed skin areas, and be cautious around extreme temperatures (very hot or very cold surfaces).

Missed Dose and Overdose

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor immediately for instructions. A lidocaine and prilocaine topical overdose may cause serious complications, including irregular heartbeat, seizures, slowed breathing, coma, and respiratory failure. While unlikely with proper application, an overdose is more probable with excessive use.

Side Effects

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction: hives, breathing difficulties, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Contact your doctor promptly if you notice:

• Severe burning, stinging, or irritation at the application site.

• Swelling or redness.

• Sudden dizziness or drowsiness after application.

• Confusion, blurred vision, or tinnitus (ringing in the ears).

• Bruising or purplish discoloration of the skin.

• Unusual temperature sensations.

Common side effects include mild burning at the application site, itching, rash, and changes in skin color.

This is not a complete list of all potential side effects.

Storage

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Avoid freezing.