Lidocaine + Prilocaine is a local anesthetic drug developed by the U.S. Food And Drug Administration and initially approved for treating local pain relief.

Lidocaine + Prilocaine is used to treat topically (on the skin) to numb the skin or mucous membranes before certain medical procedures or minor surgeries. They can also reduce pain or discomfort associated with certain skin conditions.

Lidocaine + Prilocaine should only be used under the supervision of a doctor or nurse. For surface skin procedures, your physician will apply a generous amount of the cream or gel to cover the area. Gently rub or massage it into the skin, and ensure it remains in contact with the skin for the recommended duration.

The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Lidocaine + Prilocaine are skin reactions, allergic reactions, and methemoglobinemia.

Do not take Lidocaine + Prilocaine if you are allergic to it, other similar local anesthetics, or any other ingredients in the cream. Avoid getting this cream in your eyes, as it can cause irritation. If this cream accidentally comes into contact with your eye, rinse it thoroughly with lukewarm water or a salt (sodium chloride) solution. Avoid exposing your eye to anything until the sensation returns. Before using this cream, notify your physician if you or your child have a rare inherited illness called 'glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency.' This condition affects blood and may require special consideration when using this cream. 

Do not use this cream on areas with skin rash, cuts, scrapes, or other open wounds, except for leg ulcers. If any of these issues are present, consult your physician before using the cream. If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby, it's essential to consult your physician before using this cream. Some active substances in Lidocaine + Prilocaine can be passed into breast milk.  However, the amount that transfers is very small and generally considered safe for breastfeeding infants.

While the area is numb, be cautious to avoid any activities that could lead to accidental injury or damage to the numbed skin or mucous membranes. For example, avoid biting your lip or cheek if the Lidocaine + Prilocaine is applied inside your mouth. If you are unable to eat or drink immediately after a procedure due to numbness, staying hydrated is still essential. Sipping water regularly can help prevent dehydration. Dehydration can lead to other complications, so it's necessary to prioritize hydration even when you can't feel your mouth or throat properly.

1. AstraZeneca UK Limited, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [Revised on Feb 2021] [Accessed on 5th Sep 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.7994.pdf
2. IGI Laboratories Inc., US Food & Drug Administration, [Revised on Nov 2018] [Accessed on 5th Sep 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/019941s021lbl.pdf
3. Stefan Lillieborg, et al., EMLA anaesthetic cream for debridement of burns: a study of plasma concentrations of Lidocaine + Prilocaine and a review of the literature, Int J Burn Trauma 2017, 7(6), 88-97, [Accessed on 5th Sep 2023], http://www.ijbt.org/files/ijbt0065151.pdf
4. L. Peng et al., Local dermal application of a compound lidocaine cream in pain management of cancer wounds, Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research, 2019, 52(11), [Accessed on 5th Sep 2023], https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6853073/pdf/1414-431X-bjmbr-52-11-e8567.pdf
5. KD Tripathi, Local Anaesthetics, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition, 2019, 386-398.

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice; it is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.