Topical lidocaine is a medicine that numbs the skin and relieves pain and itching. It comes in many forms, including creams, gels, liquids, and sprays.
Like all medicines, topical lidocaine can cause side effects. Most people experience only mild side effects, if any.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the possible side effects of lidocaine cream, from common to serious. Knowing the potential side effects of topical lidocaine can help you use it safely and effectively. With the right information, you can make smart decisions about your health and know when to seek medical attention.
What is topical lidocaine used for?
Topical lidocaine is a medication that’s applied directly to the skin to relieve pain and itching, similar to how glans sensitivity creams work. It’s commonly found in over-the-counter creams, gels, and patches.
Common Uses
- Pain Relief: You can use topical lidocaine to alleviate pain from minor burns, cuts, and scrapes, but it’s not a suitable remedy for a burning sensation after urinating. It’s also a good option for sunburn or itchy bug bites.
- Itching Relief: Lidocaine can soothe itching caused by skin irritations.
- Hemorrhoid Treatment: It can help reduce the pain and itching associated with hemorrhoids.
How it Works
Topical lidocaine works by blocking nerve signals in the area where it’s applied. This produces a numbing effect that reduces sensations such as pain and itching.
Common Side Effects of Topical Lidocaine
Like any medication, lidocaine cream can cause side effects. Most of these are mild and temporary, but it’s good to know what to expect.
- Local Skin Reactions: You might see some redness, swelling, or a burning feeling where you put the cream. Usually, this goes away on its own.
- Skin Irritation: Some people get dry or peeling skin. Moisturizer can help, and it’s usually temporary.
- Changes in Sensation: Numbness or tingling is supposed to happen! That’s how lidocaine works. But tell your doctor if you have any weird or long-lasting changes in feeling.
- Itching or Rash: Even though lidocaine can stop itching, some people get a rash or start itching more. This could mean you’re having a mild allergic reaction or are sensitive to the cream.
Remember, these side effects are usually no big deal and don’t last long. But if they bother you or get worse, talk to your doctor.
Serious side effects of topical lidocaine
Though rare, some serious side effects can occur when using lidocaine cream. Contact a healthcare provider immediately if you develop any of the following:
Allergic reactions
It’s possible to be allergic to lidocaine or one of the other ingredients in the cream. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Rapid heartbeat or chest pain
Systemic effects
Systemic side effects are rare when lidocaine is applied topically. However, they can occur if large amounts of the medication are absorbed into the bloodstream. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Blurred vision
- Ringing in the ears
- Seizures or loss of consciousness (rare)
Methemoglobinemia
Methemoglobinemia is a rare but serious condition in which your blood can’t carry oxygen effectively. It’s more common in infants and people with certain medical conditions.
Symptoms of methemoglobinemia include:
- Pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, and nail beds
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Headache
Methemoglobinemia requires immediate medical treatment.
Warnings and Precautions
Like any medication, topical lidocaine isn’t for everyone. Here’s what to keep in mind before you reach for that tube of numbing cream:
Who Should Not Use Topical Lidocaine?
- People with broken or irritated skin: Avoid putting lidocaine on open wounds, large areas of damaged skin, or places where you’re already experiencing significant irritation.
- People with allergies: Don’t use lidocaine if you know you’re allergic to it or to any other local anesthetics.
Important Considerations Before Use
Talk to your doctor before using lidocaine if any of these apply to you:
- Medical Conditions: If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have liver or kidney disease, it’s important to get medical advice before using lidocaine.
- Other Medications: Make sure your doctor knows about all the medications and supplements you’re taking, as well as any pre-existing health conditions you have.
- Application Area: Be careful to avoid getting lidocaine in your eyes, and don’t apply it inside your rectum.
General Precautions
Here are a few more essential safety tips:
- External Use Only: Lidocaine cream is meant to be used only on the outside of your body.
- Children: Keep lidocaine out of reach of children.
- Heat: Don’t apply heat to the area where you’ve used lidocaine.
Overdose and missed dose
Overdose
If you use too much lidocaine cream, you might experience side effects like:
- dizziness
- drowsiness
- confusion
- seizures
- slowed breathing
- irregular heartbeat
If you think you’ve used too much of this medication, get medical help right away.
Missed dose
If you forget to apply lidocaine cream at the scheduled time, put it on as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and just apply the cream at the next scheduled time.
Don’t apply twice as much cream to make up for a missed dose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use lidocaine cream every day?
It depends. Daily use of lidocaine cream should be determined by your healthcare provider. Overuse can lead to increased side effects and reduced effectiveness over time. Always follow the prescribed instructions carefully.
Can you leave numbing cream on too long?
Yes, you absolutely can. Leaving numbing cream on for an extended period can increase the risk of side effects like skin irritation, changes in skin color, and even systemic absorption of the lidocaine, which can be dangerous. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding application time.
What organ does lidocaine affect?
While topical lidocaine is designed for local effect, if absorbed into the bloodstream, it can affect the cardiovascular system and the central nervous system. Overuse or application to broken skin increases the risk of systemic effects.
What is the major drawback of topical lidocaine?
A major drawback is the potential for systemic absorption, leading to adverse effects if used improperly. Also, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation at the application site. The limited duration of its numbing effect is another consideration.
Are you supposed to rub in lidocaine cream?
Generally, no. You typically apply a thin layer of lidocaine cream to the affected area without rubbing it in vigorously. Follow the specific instructions provided with the product or by your healthcare provider.
To Conclude
Lidocaine cream can be a great way to manage pain in a specific area, but it comes with the risk of side effects, both common and serious.
Before you use lidocaine cream, talk with your healthcare provider, especially if you have other health conditions or take other medications. They can help you decide if it’s right for you and how to use it safely.
If you have a serious allergic reaction or any systemic side effects, seek immediate medical attention. It’s always better to be safe when it comes to your health.