Lidocaine cream is a topical anesthetic. It is used to manage pain on the skin by preventing nerves from sending signals of pain to the brain. For this reason, it is used in many dermatological procedures. It is also used in some cosmetic measures that can cause pain on the skin. The effect of lidocaine cream remains on the surface of the skin, so it is not used for pain that is felt below the skin, such as muscle pain. It is vital to wash hands after the application of lidocaine cream and to contact a physician if there are any adverse reactions.
What Exactly Is Lidocaine?
Lidocaine has a long medical history. First on the market in 1949, the versatility of the compound continues to grow each year. Commonly used in many procedures and pain relief medications, topical lidocaine cream is characterized by providing very fast results. Many patients and users are able to feel the relief only a few minutes after application.
The substance actually works to dull the signals sent by the nervous system that emote pain and discomfort. The reduced pain signals also mean less pain is actually felt in the impacted area. The effectiveness can range from many hours to a day or two depending on the severity of the pain and the location.
Typical Clinical Procedures
From the "Journal of Drugs in Dermatology," local anesthetics such as lidocaine cream are used in clinical procedures to control pain on the surface of the skin such as the removal of lesions, skin biopsies and electrocautery.
Injections or IV
According the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, lidocaine cream can be an efficient pretreatment for needle insertions in children. The needle could be from either an injection or an IV. Since children can become afraid of injections and IVs due to the pain associated with needle pricks, the application of lidocaine cream prior to an injection or the insertion of an IV needle can ease the psychological stress felt by a child.
Chemotherapy
According to the Osaka Minami National Hospital, lidocaine cream can aid in the prevention of thermal stress during the hyperthermia those results from chemotherapy.
Cosmetic Surgery
According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, lidocaine is an effective treatment for controlling pain that is associated when lips are injected with filler substances for cosmetic reasons.
Other Uses
Lidocaine cream is used for the handling of some skin conditions that cause pain, itching or discomfort. These conditions comprise minor burns,hemorrhoids, insect bites, scratches and eczema.
