What is lidocaine and prilocaine gel?
Lidocaine and prilocaine is a topical anesthetic that’s applied to the skin to relieve pain or numb the area before a procedure. Similar products, like delay cream for men, also utilize topical anesthetics. It contains two active ingredients: lidocaine and prilocaine. Both are local anesthetics that block nerve signals in your body.
Doctors and other healthcare providers use lidocaine and prilocaine gel to numb the skin before certain medical procedures, such as inserting an IV or taking a skin biopsy. You can also use it to relieve pain from skin conditions like minor burns, insect bites, and scrapes.
Though you can buy some formulations of lidocaine and prilocaine gel over the counter, it’s important to talk with a healthcare provider before using it. It can cause side effects and interact with other medications. In this article, we’ll explore the uses, risks, and precautions associated with lidocaine and prilocaine gel.
WHAT IS LIDOCAINE/PRILOCAINE GEL?
Composition and Classification
Lidocaine and prilocaine are local anesthetics. Both belong to a class of drugs called amides. They work by blocking nerve signals in your body.
These gels typically contain 2.5% lidocaine and 2.5% prilocaine.
How it Works (Mechanism of Action)
Lidocaine and prilocaine block sodium channels. Sodium channels are essential for the transmission of nerve signals. By blocking these channels, lidocaine and prilocaine, similar to some delay sprays, prevent nerves from sending pain signals to the brain.
This results in a numbing effect. Topical anesthetics numb the area where they are applied, which is why lidocaine and prilocaine gel is often used to reduce pain before procedures like IV insertions, vaccinations, or minor skin surgeries.
Uses of lidocaine/prilocaine gel
Lidocaine/prilocaine gel has a variety of uses, including:
Medical Procedures
- Numbing the skin before a needle is inserted. This can include starting an IV or drawing blood.
- Preparing the skin before minor surgery, like mole removal.
- Preparing the skin before cosmetic procedures, like laser hair removal, tattoo application, or tattoo removal.
Pain Relief
- Relieving the pain of post-herpetic neuralgia, which can happen after a shingles outbreak.
- Managing the pain of minor burns and scrapes. (This is considered an off-label use, which means the FDA has approved the drug, but not specifically for this purpose.)
Specific Applications
- Anesthetizing genital mucous membranes before procedures like superficial surgery or infiltration anesthesia.
Talk with your doctor or other healthcare provider about whether lidocaine/prilocaine gel is right for you.
Dosage and administration
It’s important to use lidocaine and prilocaine gel exactly as directed. Here are some guidelines:
Application guidelines
- Apply a thick layer of the gel to the affected area. Use the dosing card provided with your prescription to make sure you’re using the correct amount.
- Cover the area with an occlusive dressing, if your healthcare provider recommends it.
- The length of time you leave the gel on your skin depends on the procedure or condition you’re treating.
Dosage considerations
- The dosage you’ll need depends on the area being treated, your age, and your overall health.
- Don’t apply more of the gel than your doctor has prescribed.
- Be careful not to exceed the maximum recommended dose.
Important reminders
- Wash your hands thoroughly after applying the gel.
- Be careful to avoid getting the gel in your eyes.
- Don’t apply the gel to open wounds or inside your ears.
Side effects of lidocaine/prilocaine gel
Like all medications, lidocaine and prilocaine gel can cause side effects. Most of these are mild and go away on their own, but some can be serious.
Common side effects
The most common side effects include temporary skin discoloration, redness, swelling, and a burning or itching sensation at the application site, similar to some experiences reported with products like delay wipes for men.
Serious side effects
Although rare, some people experience more serious side effects, such as:
- Methemoglobinemia: This condition affects the way your blood carries oxygen. Symptoms include pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, and nail beds; headache; lightheadedness; shortness of breath; fatigue; and rapid heart rate.
- Allergic reactions: Symptoms may include rash, hives, itching, swelling, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.
- Cardiovascular or neurological effects: In very rare cases, people have experienced seizures or coma.
What to do if side effects occur
If you experience any of the following, seek immediate medical attention:
- Symptoms of methemoglobinemia
- Signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling, trouble breathing, or hives
- Seizures or loss of consciousness
For mild side effects, such as redness or itching, contact your healthcare provider. They can assess your symptoms and determine if you should continue using the gel or if an alternative treatment is necessary.
Warnings and Precautions
Like all medications, lidocaine and prilocaine gel comes with warnings and precautions. Here’s what you need to know:
Contraindications
Don’t use this product if:
- You’re allergic to lidocaine, prilocaine, or other similar local anesthetics.
- You have a history of methemoglobinemia (a blood disorder).
Special Populations
Talk to your doctor before using this gel if:
- You have G6PD deficiency (a genetic disorder).
- You have severe liver or kidney problems.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding. It’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
General Precautions
Keep these points in mind when using lidocaine and prilocaine gel:
- Avoid using it on broken or inflamed skin unless your doctor tells you to.
- Use only the smallest amount necessary to get the numbing effect you need.
Drug Interactions
It’s important to be aware of potential drug interactions when using lidocaine and prilocaine gel. Certain medications can increase the risk of methemoglobinemia, a condition where your blood can’t carry oxygen properly. These include:
- Nitrates and nitrites
- Certain antimalarial drugs
- Some anticonvulsants
Using other local anesthetics at the same time could increase the risk of systemic toxicity. Also, PABA derivatives may interfere with how well the gel works.
How should I store lidocaine and prilocaine gel?
Keep lidocaine and prilocaine gel at room temperature (between 68°F and 77°F). Protect it from light and moisture. And, like all medications, keep it safely out of the reach of children and pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is stronger, lidocaine or prilocaine?
Lidocaine and prilocaine are both local anesthetics with similar potency. However, some studies suggest that lidocaine may have a slightly faster onset of action, while prilocaine might have a slightly longer duration. When combined in a gel, their effects are often synergistic.
What are the disadvantages of Manforce gel?
Manforce gel typically contains lidocaine or a similar local anesthetic. Potential disadvantages include temporary reduced sensation, which might affect sexual experience for some users. Some individuals may also experience mild skin irritation or allergic reactions. Consult a doctor if you have concerns or experience adverse effects.
Can I rub lidocaine on my gums?
Lidocaine is sometimes used topically on the gums to relieve pain, such as during teething or for minor dental procedures. However, it’s essential to use a product specifically formulated for oral use and to follow the instructions carefully to avoid swallowing too much, which could lead to adverse effects.
What is lidocaine and prilocaine gel used for?
Lidocaine and prilocaine gel, like EMLA, is primarily used as a topical anesthetic to numb the skin before procedures such as injections, IV insertions, minor surgeries, or tattoo application. It reduces pain and discomfort by blocking nerve signals in the treated area.
What STD is lidocaine used for?
Lidocaine is not directly used to treat STDs. It may be used topically to alleviate pain or discomfort associated with certain STDs that cause sores or lesions, such as herpes. However, it does not treat the underlying infection. Consult a healthcare professional for appropriate STD treatment.
In conclusion
Lidocaine/prilocaine gel offers real benefits for easing pain before certain procedures, but it can come with risks. Before using it, talk to your healthcare provider. During use, pay close attention to what your body’s telling you. And always, always follow the instructions. If you do, you’ll be more likely to get the benefits you’re looking for — safely.