PRODUCT DETAILS

Composition

• Active ingredient: Lidocaine  2% w/w
• Class: Local anaesthetic (amide type)
• Other ingredients: gel base (water, thickening agents, preservatives—varies by brand)

Indication / Use

Used for temporary numbness (pain relief) on skin or mucous membranes:

• Minor burns and skin irritation
• Painful cuts or abrasions
• Insect bites
• Mouth ulcers (if oral lidocaine gel formulation)
• Minor medical procedures (e.g., catheter insertion, minor dermatology procedures)
• Local pain relief before dressing wounds

It does not treat infection or healing, only blocks pain sensation temporarily.

Direction of Use

• Apply a thin layer to affected area
• Use 1–3 times daily (or as directed)
• For oral use (if applicable): apply small amount directly to ulcer area
• Wash hands before and after use
• Avoid covering large areas unless advised

Side Effects

Common:

• Mild burning or stinging at application site
• Temporary redness
• Numbness (expected effect)

Less common:

• Skin irritation or rash
• Allergic reaction (itching, swelling)

Rare (if overused or absorbed in large amounts):

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Tingling around mouth (systemic absorption)
• Irregular heartbeat (very rare, overdose situation)

Warnings

• Do NOT use:
• On large areas of broken skin unless prescribed
• Deep wounds
• Severe infections
• Avoid contact with:
• Eyes (can cause numb cornea and injury)
• Do not overuse → risk of lidocaine toxicity
• Use cautiously in:
• Liver disease (slower drug breakdown)
• Elderly or children (higher absorption risk)

Interactions

• Minimal with topical use, but caution with:
• Other local anaesthetics (risk of additive toxicity)
• Antiarrhythmic drugs (if significant absorption occurs)
• Alcohol or sedatives may increase systemic side effects if overused

Caution

• Numb area can be easily injured without noticing (burns, cuts)
• Do not eat or drink hot food immediately after oral application (risk of burns)
• Avoid repeated high-dose application
• Stop use if:
• Rash or swelling develops
• No improvement in pain
• If pain persists, underlying cause should be evaluated rather than masking symptoms