At a glance

QUICK SUMMARY

01 Type of medicine

Topical local anesthetic

02 Generic
03 Active ingredient

Lidocaine

04 Effective within
05 Works by

Temporarily numbing the skin or mucous membranes

06 Side effects

Medication details

Description

LMX Lidocaine 4% Cream

Lidocaine 4% cream is a topical anaesthetic used to relieve pain and discomfort from minor burns, abrasions, insect bites and skin irritations. It numbs the skin temporarily, and is also widely used to take the edge off needle procedures such as blood tests and vaccinations.

How it works

Lidocaine blocks the sodium channels that nerve endings use to generate and transmit a signal. With that signal interrupted, pain messages from the treated patch of skin do not reach the brain, so the area feels numb. The effect is local and temporary, lasting while the medicine remains in the tissue, and it needs time to penetrate the skin before it takes hold.

How to use it

Apply a thin layer to the affected area and rub it in gently, following the pack instructions. For a planned needle procedure, apply it in advance of the appointment with the timing given on the pack, since the cream needs that period to work. Avoid contact with the eyes, nose and mouth, and do not use it on broken skin unless a healthcare professional has directed it. Wash your hands afterwards.

Who it is for

It is for adults and children as stated on the pack. It is not suitable for anyone sensitive to local anaesthetics, and it should not be applied to large areas of skin, to wounds, or under occlusive dressings unless specifically advised.

Safety and when to get advice

Mild redness, paleness or a change in sensation at the site can occur. Applying more than directed, or over a large area, allows more to be absorbed, so stay within the pack guidance. Seek urgent medical help for dizziness, drowsiness, ringing in the ears, numbness around the mouth, an irregular heartbeat or signs of an allergic reaction. See a clinician for a burn larger than the palm of the hand, a bite that becomes hot, swollen or spreading, or a wound that is not healing. Our UK pharmacy team can answer questions about this product before you buy.

Common questions

How long before a blood test should I apply it?
Follow the timing on the pack, since the cream needs time to penetrate before the procedure.

Can I use it on broken skin?
Not unless a healthcare professional has directed it.

How long does the numbness last?
It is temporary and wears off as the medicine clears from the tissue.

Always read the patient information leaflet supplied with the pack before use.

Directions

Apply a thin layer of LMX Lidocaine 4% cream to the affected area. Gently rub in the cream until it is evenly distributed. For procedures, the cream should typically be applied 30 to 60 minutes before the procedure to allow time for the skin to become numb. Cover the area with a bandage if instructed (especially for larger areas). Do not use more than the recommended amount, and avoid using the cream on large areas of skin without medical supervision. Wash your hands thoroughly after application to avoid transferring the cream to other areas, especially the eyes.

Ingredients

Active Ingredient: Lidocaine 4% – The local anesthetic responsible for numbing the skin.

Other Ingredients: Water, propylene glycol, carbomer, and other stabilizers to help in the cream's consistency and effectiveness.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects: Mild skin irritation, redness, or itching at the application site. Tingling or slight burning sensation during application.

Less Common Side Effects: Allergic reactions, including rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing (though rare). Severe skin irritation or blistering.

Systemic Side Effects (rare): If absorbed into the bloodstream, excessive use of lidocaine could lead to symptoms like dizziness, confusion, or drowsiness.

Warnings

Do not apply to broken, irritated, or inflamed skin.

Avoid contact with eyes. If the cream gets into the eyes, rinse immediately with water.

Use only as directed: Overuse of lidocaine or applying it to large areas of skin can lead to systemic side effects like dizziness, heart irregularities, or seizures.

Consult a doctor if you have a history of heart disease, liver disease, or a sensitivity to local anesthetics before using this product.

Keep the cream out of reach of children and do not apply it to children under the age of 2 unless instructed by a doctor.

Not for oral or mucosal use unless specifically instructed by a healthcare provider.

Medically reviewed and published

  • This page was medically reviewed by Dr Sohaib Imtiaz, Clinical Lead on

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FAQs

Please read our FAQs page to find out more.

How long before a procedure should I apply it, and how long does the numbness last?

Apply the cream about 30 to 60 minutes before the procedure for best effect. The numbness typically lasts around one to two hours, though this varies depending on the area treated and how much was applied.

Can I use it on broken skin or near my eyes?

No. Do not apply to broken, irritated or inflamed skin, and avoid the eye area. If the cream accidentally gets into your eyes, rinse with plenty of water straight away.

Is there a limit to how large an area I can cover?

Yes. Applying lidocaine over a large area of skin increases the risk of it being absorbed into the bloodstream, which can cause dizziness, confusion or heart rhythm effects. Use only the amount needed for the area you are treating, and do not cover large areas without advice from a clinician.

Is it safe to use on children?

Do not use on children under 2 years of age unless instructed by a doctor. For older children, use only the amount advised and keep the cream well out of reach, as accidental ingestion of lidocaine can be dangerous.

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