Introduction

Lidocaine is a local anesthetic agent commonly used for local and topical anesthesia, but it also has antiarrhythmic and analgesic uses and can be used as an adjunct to tracheal intubation. It is a tertiary amine class Ib antiarrhythmic agent on the Vaughan-Williams classification. This product is available in the following dosage forms:

Spray

Cream

Patch, Extended Release

Gel/Jelly

Ointment 

Lotion 

Pad

Swab

Powder

Solution

Mode of action

Lidocaine can relieve many different types of pain by blocking pain signals sent from nerves in the skin. When the nerves are blocked, it creates a numbing sensation or a temporary loss of feeling.

Unlike orally ingested pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (TYLENOL?), you can control how topical lidocaine targets your pain. When applied to your skin, it gives you pain relief only in the area that you apply it.

Uses

This medication is used on the skin to stop itching and pain from certain skin conditions (such as scrapes, minor burns, eczema, and insect bites) and to treat minor discomfort and itching caused by hemorrhoids and certain other problems of the genital/anal area (such as anal fissures, itching around the vagina/rectum). Some forms of this medication are also used to decrease discomfort or pain during certain medical procedures/exams (such as sigmoidoscopy and cystoscopy). Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that works by causing temporary numbness/loss of feeling in the skin and mucous membranes.

Side effects

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
breathing problems
changes in vision
chills, fever
confused, excitable, nervous, restless
dizzy, drowsy
headache
irregular heartbeat
nausea, vomiting
seizures
tremors

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention :
lighter or redder skin colors where used
numb area