Information about Emla Cream (Lidocaine)
Emla cream is a topical anesthetic that combines two active ingredients: lidocaine and prilocaine. It works by numbing the skin and underlying tissues to prevent pain or discomfort during minor medical procedures, such as needle insertions, minor surgeries, or certain dermatological treatments. When applied to the skin, it blocks nerve signals in the area, providing temporary relief from pain.
Product Highlights
- Emla is commonly used to numb the skin before procedures like injections (e.g., vaccinations, blood draws), IV insertions, tattooing, and laser treatments.
- It's used to alleviate pain from conditions like sunburn, insect bites, and minor burns.
- It can be applied prior to minor dermatological procedures, such as the removal of warts or stitches.
- In some cases, Emla is used to numb the skin prior to circumcision in both infants and adults.
- It's also used to reduce discomfort associated with dermatological conditions that involve pain on the skin’s surface.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Emla provides localized numbness, allowing patients to undergo minor medical procedures or skin treatments without experiencing significant discomfort.
- Being a topical cream, it avoids the need for injections or systemic medications, making it a safe option for many patients.
- Emla generally begins to numb the area within 1 hour of application, making it suitable for a wide range of outpatient procedures.
- The cream is designed for local use, and when used as directed, it results in minimal systemic absorption, lowering the risk of widespread side effects.
Direction of Use
- Clean and dry the area of skin where the cream will be applied.
- Apply a thick layer (about 1-2 mm) of Emla cream to the affected area. The exact amount and area depend on the procedure being performed.
- After applying the cream, cover the area with an occlusive dressing (e.g., plastic wrap or dressing) to ensure the cream stays in place and enhances its absorption.
- Allow the cream to stay on the skin for at least 1 hour (for most procedures). For certain conditions or more extensive areas, a longer duration may be required.
- For minor procedures like needle insertions or small dermatological treatments, 1 hour is usually sufficient.
- For more invasive procedures, like skin grafts, it may be used for up to 2 hours.
- After the required time, remove the dressing and wash off any excess cream.
- Follow the specific aftercare instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
Safety Concerns
- Although rare, some people may be allergic to lidocaine or prilocaine. Signs of an allergic reaction can include rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Prolonged or improper use of Emla cream may lead to skin irritation, redness, or a burning sensation.
- If the cream is used excessively or over large areas of broken or irritated skin, there may be an increased risk of systemic absorption, leading to side effects such as dizziness, confusion, or even more severe reactions like seizures or irregular heart rhythms.
- Rarely, prilocaine can cause methemoglobinemia, a condition where oxygen delivery to tissues is impaired. Symptoms include cyanosis (bluish color of the skin, lips, or nails), shortness of breath, and fatigue. This risk is higher in infants and those with specific genetic conditions.
Avoid Emla Cream (Lidocaine) If
- Do not use Emla cream if you have a known allergy to lidocaine, prilocaine, or other similar anesthetics.
- Individuals with severe liver disease should avoid using Emla cream, as lidocaine is metabolized by the liver, and impaired liver function can lead to toxicity.
- Do not apply Emla to broken or infected skin, as increased absorption may lead to systemic side effects.
- If you or someone in your family has a history of methemoglobinemia, Emla should be avoided as it may exacerbate the condition.
- While Emla can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before use to ensure it’s appropriate for your individual situation.
- Emla is not recommended for use in infants under 3 months, especially for larger surface areas, due to the risk of methemoglobinemia.
