What it is used for
- Numbing skin or tissue before minor procedures, injections or stitches
- Relieving pain from conditions such as nerve pain (e.g. after shingles) with medicated patches
- Soothing pain from mouth ulcers, sore throat or teething in some products
- Local anaesthesia during dental and medical procedures
How it works
Lidocaine blocks the tiny channels nerves use to send pain signals, temporarily numbing the treated area so pain is not felt.
How it is taken
Available as creams, gels, sprays, ointments, medicated patches, lozenges and solutions, and as an injection used by clinicians. Apply or use it exactly as your doctor, pharmacist or the label directs — apply only to the area needed and do not use more or for longer than instructed, as too much can be absorbed into the body.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Temporary numbness, tingling or mild stinging at the site
- Mild skin redness or irritation
- Altered taste with mouth products
Serious effects — get help
- Serious allergic reaction (swelling, rash, difficulty breathing)
- Signs of too much absorption (dizziness, drowsiness, ringing in the ears, twitching, confusion, irregular heartbeat or seizures)
- A rare blood condition (methaemoglobinaemia) causing bluish lips or skin and breathlessness
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Other local anaesthetics or numbing products (added effect)
- Certain heart-rhythm medicines
- Some medicines that can cause methaemoglobinaemia
- Medicines that affect how lidocaine is processed in higher-dose use
Who should take care
- Use only on the area directed and do not exceed the recommended amount, as excess can cause serious effects
- Take care using numbing throat or mouth products, as reduced sensation can affect swallowing
- Tell your doctor about heart problems, liver disease, or any allergy to local anaesthetics
- Keep products away from the eyes unless specifically made for eye use
- Seek urgent care for dizziness, irregular heartbeat, seizures or bluish skin