Anesthetic, local (Topical application)
Class Name: anesthetic, local (Topical application route)
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Aloe Vesta 2-N-1 Protective
- Aloe Vesta 2-N-1 Skin Conditioner
- Analpram E
- Aristocort A
- Aveeno Anti-Itch
- Avenova
- Betadine
- Biofreeze
- Curasore
- Emla
- Exactacain
- Frigiderm
- Gebauer's Ethyl Chloride
- LidAll
- LidaMantle HC Relief
- Lidoderm
- Mycocide NS
- Nupercainal
- Pramegel
- Prolida
- Silvera
- Solaraze
- Solarcaine First Aid
- Sting Kill
- Synera
- Ulcerease
- Ultra Mide
- Velma
- Xylocaine
In Canada
- Baby Orajel Nighttime Formula
- Bactine
- Bactine First Aid
- Bengay Ice Extra Strength
- Clear Anti-Itch Lotion
- Dermoplast Maximum Strength
- Lanacane
- Medicated Calamine Lotion With Pramoxine Hcl
- Medicated Foot Powder
- Myoflex Ice Cold Plus
Available Dosage Forms:
- Cream
- Spray
- Pad
- Gel/Jelly
- Ointment
- Patch, Extended Release
- Lotion
- Solution
- Swab
- Liquid
- Soap
Uses for this Medicine
This medicine belongs to a group of medicines known as topical local anesthetics. Topical anesthetics are used to relieve pain and itching caused by conditions such as sunburn or other minor burns, insect bites or stings, poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, and minor cuts and scratches.
Topical anesthetics deaden the nerve endings in the skin. They do not cause unconsciousness as do general anesthetics used for surgery.
Most topical anesthetics are available without a prescription; however, your doctor may have special instructions on the proper use and dose for your medical problem.
Before using this Medicine
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to medicines in this group or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Benzocaine may be absorbed through the skin of young children and cause unwanted effects. There is no specific information comparing use of other topical anesthetics in children with use in other age groups, but it is possible that they may also cause unwanted effects in young children. Check with your doctor before using any product that contains a topical anesthetic for a child younger than 2 years of age.
Geriatric
Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older people. Therefore, it may not be known whether they work exactly the same way they do in younger adults or if they cause different side effects or problems in older people. There is no specific information comparing use of topical anesthetics in the elderly with use in other age groups.
Pregnancy
Although studies on effects in pregnancy have not been done in humans, topical anesthetics have not been reported to cause problems in humans. Lidocaine has not been shown to cause birth defects or other problems in animal studies. Other topical anesthetics have not been studied in animals.
Breast Feeding
Topical anesthetics have not been reported to cause problems in nursing babies.
