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Printable Version EMLA Cream

Active Ingredients: Lidocaine and Prilocaine
Other Names: EMLA Cream
Drug Class: Topical Anesthetics
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:

What is/are EMLA Cream?
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
How should I use this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What may interact with this medicine?
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Where should I keep this medicine?

What is/are EMLA Cream? (Back to top)
LIDOCAINE; PRILOCAINE is a topical anesthetic that causes loss of feeling in the skin and surrounding tissues. It is used to numb the skin before procedures or injections. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.


What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • glucose-6-phosphate deficiencies
  • heart disease
  • kidney or liver disease
  • methemoglobinemia
  • an unusual or allergic reaction to lidocaine, prilocaine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
This medicine is for external use only on the skin. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Do not use more or leave in contact with the skin longer than directed. Do not apply to eyes or open wounds. It can cause irritation and blurred or temporary loss of vision. If this medicine comes in contact with your eyes, immediately rinse the eye with water. Do not touch or rub the eye. Contact your health care provider right away.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this medicine may be prescribed for children for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.


What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
This medicine is usually only applied once prior to each procedure. It must be in contact with the skin for a period of time for it to work. If you applied this medicine later than directed, tell your health care professional before starting the procedure.


What may interact with this medicine? (Back to top)

  • acetaminophen
  • chloroquine
  • dapsone
  • medicines to control heart rhythm
  • nitrates like nitroglycerin and nitroprusside
  • other ointments, creams, or sprays that may contain anesthetic medicine
  • phenobarbital
  • phenytoin
  • quinine
  • sulfonamides like sulfacetamide, sulfamethoxazole, sulfasalazine and others

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.


What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • blurred vision
  • chest pain
  • difficulty breathing
  • dizziness
  • drowsiness
  • fast or irregular heartbeat
  • skin rash or itching
  • swelling of your throat, lips, or face
  • trembling

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
  • changes in ability to feel hot or cold
  • redness and swelling at the application site

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Be careful to avoid injury to the treated area while it is numb and you are not aware of pain. Avoid scratching, rubbing, or exposing the treated area to hot or cold temperatures until complete sensation has returned. The numb feeling will wear off a few hours after applying the cream.


Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.


Last Updated:March 22, 2006

COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company


Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.

  Additional Information

  Check Drug Interactions with EMLA Cream

  Test Yourself! If you currently take EMLA Cream, do you know everything that you need to know?

  Make your own printable Medication / Emergency Contact Card



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