Clinical Information
Use as directed by your healthcare provider. Apply a thin layer to clean, intact skin and cover if told to do so. Do not apply to large areas or broken skin unless instructed. If you miss a scheduled application, apply it when you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Never apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Lidocaine and prilocaine block sodium channels in nerve endings. This stops pain signals from reaching your brain, so the area feels numb. You will start to feel numb within 15–30 minutes, and the effect can last 1–2 hours after the ointment is removed. Phenylephrine tightens small blood vessels at the site. This reduces redness, swelling, and bleeding and also keeps the anesthetics in place longer.
Do not use if you are allergic to lidocaine, prilocaine, phenylephrine, other amide-type anesthetics, or any ingredient in this ointment (may cause severe rash or trouble breathing). Do not use on broken or infected skin unless your provider directs you (risk of systemic absorption). Avoid if you have severe heart rhythm problems, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or narrow-angle glaucoma (phenylephrine can worsen these). Do not use in infants younger than 6 months or in anyone with a history of methemoglobinemia or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. Tell your provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before use.
Using other local anesthetics (such as benzocaine sprays or dental gels) at the same time can raise the chance of side effects like numbness spreading or irregular heartbeat. Medicines for irregular heartbeat (for example, mexiletine) may add to lidocaine effects. Phenylephrine may boost blood pressure more if you take MAO inhibitors (Nardil, Parnate) or stimulant drugs (ADHD medicines, decongestants). Beta-blockers (propranolol) and some antidepressants can also raise blood pressure when mixed with phenylephrine. Always list all prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, and herbal supplements (like St. John’s wort or yohimbe) for your provider.
Very common (more than 1 in 10 people): temporary skin whitening, redness, or mild swelling where applied; tingling or burning that fades in minutes. Common (1–10 in 100 people): bruising, small pinpoint bleeding, dizziness, mild headache. Uncommon (1–10 in 1,000 people): increased heart rate or blood pressure, feeling anxious or shaky. Rare but serious: severe allergic reaction with rash, itching, swelling of face or throat, or trouble breathing; methemoglobinemia (skin or lips turn gray-blue, shortness of breath). Most mild skin reactions clear within a few hours after the ointment is wiped off. Seek medical help right away if serious reactions occur.
Store tightly closed at room temperature 68-77°F (20-25°C). Keep away from heat, flame, and direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Avoid storing in the bathroom where humidity is high. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date on the label. Dispose of leftover or expired ointment through a pharmacy take-back program or mix it with coffee grounds in a sealed plastic bag before throwing it in the household trash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:How long before my procedure should I apply the ointment?
A:Most people need to apply it 30–60 minutes before the procedure for full numbness, but follow the exact timing your healthcare provider gives you.
Q:Can I put this ointment on broken or bleeding skin?
A:No. Applying to open wounds or broken skin can let too much medicine into your bloodstream and raise the risk of side effects. Only use on intact skin unless your provider says it’s safe.
Q:What should I do if the area stays numb for a long time?
A:Mild numbness can last up to 2 hours after you wipe the ointment off. If it lasts longer than 3 hours or you lose feeling in a larger area, contact your provider right away.
Q:Is it safe to use this ointment while pregnant or breastfeeding?
A:Tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Small amounts may pass into your bloodstream, so your provider will weigh the benefits and risks before use.
Q:Can I drive after using the ointment?
A:The ointment itself should not affect thinking or coordination, but dizziness is possible in some people. If you feel light-headed, wait until you feel normal before driving.
Q:How should I clean the area after I’m done?
A:Gently wipe off all ointment with a damp cloth and mild soap, then pat the skin dry. Do not scrub hard, as the skin may be sensitive.
Related Products
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