What is Lidocaine?
Numbing for skin, mouth and procedures; in pain creams and mouthwashes.
At Pharmacy on the Park, Lidocaine is compounded in our pharmacy from a prescription, in the strength and form your prescriber orders.
How does it work?
Blocks sodium channels in nerves to stop pain signals temporarily.
What is it used for?
Numbing for skin, mouth and procedures; in pain creams and mouthwashes. Your prescriber determines the use, dose and monitoring.
How is it used?
- Cream. Creams are applied to the area your prescriber directs. Metered dispensers such as Topi-CLICK® deliver the same amount each time. Wash your hands after applying.
- Ointment. Ointments are applied in a thin layer to the area directed.
- Mouthwash. Mouthwash is swished and then spit out or swallowed, exactly as directed.
- Oral liquid. Oral liquids are shaken well and measured with the oral syringe we provide.
- Vaginal preparation. Vaginal preparations are inserted with an applicator or dispenser, usually at bedtime, as directed.
- Nasal spray. Nasal sprays are primed before first use and sprayed into each nostril as directed.
- Suppository. Suppositories are inserted as directed. If one softens, chill it briefly before use.
Follow the directions on your label. The strength, amount and schedule are set by your prescriber.
Side effects and safety
Commonly reported: Temporary numbness, local irritation. Use only as directed on large areas. Call your prescriber or us about any reaction that concerns you.
Who should use caution?
Applying to large areas, broken skin or under wraps unless directed. Too much can affect the heart and nervous system. Share your full medical history and medication list with your prescriber.
How should it be stored?
Check your label: some liquids are refrigerated. Shake well before each dose. Keep suppositories cool; many are refrigerated. Always follow the storage directions and beyond-use date on your label, and keep medications out of reach of children and pets.
Why is it compounded?
Compounding lets us prepare Lidocaine in the exact strength your prescriber orders, in forms such as cream, ointment, mouthwash. Flavoring helps pets and people take it more easily. We can also leave out dyes, fillers or allergens when needed.
Lidocaine is also prepared in combination with Tetracaine, Benzocaine, Gabapentin, Baclofen. See combination preparations in our library.