Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
This medication comprises lidocaine and prilocaine, which are amide-type local anesthetics. Its purpose is to prevent pain before specific procedures, such as skin laser surgery, skin grafts, or needle insertion, by applying it to normal, unbroken skin or the outer genital area. Its mechanism of action involves temporarily numbing the skin and its surroundings. In situations where the product alone cannot fully anesthetize the area under treatment, it may be used as a preliminary numbing agent before administering a lidocaine injection.
Uses and Dosage
Only use this medication on normal skin and the genital area. Do not apply to broken, irritated skin or open wounds. Prior to use, wash your hands thoroughly.
Apply the medication to the designated area at the specified time. The duration of time the medication stays on the skin is contingent upon the nature of the procedure being conducted. It is usually applied at least one hour before needle punctures and two hours before minor skin procedures. For specific genital procedures, a healthcare professional may apply the medication. In such cases, remain lying down to keep the medication in place.
To apply, dispense the prescribed amount of cream directly onto the skin. Do not rub the cream in. Cover the area with an airtight dressing or bandage, as instructed by your doctor. Allow the cream to stay on the skin, usually in a thick layer. Remove the dressing and cream and thoroughly cleanse the area shortly before the procedure or as directed by your doctor.
Dosage and duration of application time are based on your age, medical condition, and the procedure being conducted. In children, the dosage may also depend on weight. Do not exceed the prescribed amount. Do not use it on large areas of skin, apply heat, or leave it in place longer than directed, as it may result in serious side effects.
If you are using this medication on a child, make sure the medication stays in place and prevent your child from putting the medication or dressing/bandage in their mouth.
After use, wash your hands immediately, unless you are treating an area on your hands. Avoid getting the product in your eyes, nose, ears, or mouth. If the medication gets in your eyes, immediately rinse the affected eye thoroughly with water or saline. Numbness in the eye can cause injury, as you may not feel particles or other hazards.
The area may remain numb for several hours after the procedure. Be cautious not to bump, rub, scratch, or expose the area to heat or cold until feeling returns. Protect the area from injury.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- burning or itching where medication is applied
- puffiness at application site
- skin tingling
- small red dots or purple spots where medication is applied
- whitening or redness to the skin
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- eye irritation
- abdominal cramps
- difficulty breathing
- nausea and vomiting
- swelling of the face and throat
- brownish or greyish skin colour
- discoloured lips and nail beds
Caution
Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product if you have a known allergy to lidocaine, prilocaine, or any other amide-type local anesthetics such as bupivacaine, or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may also cause allergic reactions or other problems.
Before using this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist of your medical history, especially if you have heart disease (such as irregular heartbeat), kidney disease, liver disease, or a certain blood disorder called methemoglobinemia.
Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of this medication, particularly dizziness.
If you are pregnant, you should only use this medication when absolutely necessary. Talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits.
Lidocaine can pass into breast milk. It is unclear whether prilocaine passes into breast milk as well. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while using this medication.
Form and Strength
Emla Cream is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
Emla Cream cream:
- 25g
-
lidocaine and prilocaine cream:
- 30g
- 60g
- 90g
FAQ
How long does it take for Emla Cream to numb?
The medicine will start to numb the area after 30 minutes. The skin will stay numb for 1 hour after the cream is removed.
What can Emla Cream be used for?
Emla can be used to numb the skin before medical needle procedures, tattoo application or removal, and certain cosmetic procedures involving needles or lasers.
Resources
- https://extapps.childrenshospital.org/EFPEC/Home/Sheet/1761#:~:text=The%20medicine%20will%20start%20to%20numb%20the%20area%20after%2030%20minutes.&text=If%20you%20have%20to%20wait,after%20you%20put%20it%20on.&text=The%20skin%20will%20stay%20numb,after%20the%20cream%20is%20removed
- https://www.emla.co.uk/faq/#:~:text=What%20is%20Emla%20numbing%20cream,%2C%20from%20full%2Dterm%20birth
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/emla#adverseeffects
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-2358-8170/emla-topical/lidocaine-prilocaine-cream-topical/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/lidocaine-and-prilocaine-topical-application-route/side-effects/drg-20062126#
- https://www.drugs.com/emla.html
