BRAND NAME(S): EMLA
USES: This medication is an anesthetic used on the skin to prevent pain. It is used before certain procedures such as inserting IV lines, skin grafts or skin laser surgery where numbing of the skin and surrounding area is necessary.
HOW TO USE: This medication is for use on the skin only. Apply to the skin area at the proper time as directed. The length of time for the medication to stay on the skin depends on the type of procedure you will undergo. However, it should be applied for a minimum of 1 hour before the procedure. To apply, squeeze out the prescribed amount of cream directly onto the skin. Do not rub in. Cover with air-tight dressing (e.g., Tegaderm). Remove the paper frame and seal the edges only allowing the cream to remain in a thick layer. Just prior to your medical procedure or when directed, remove the dressing and cream and clean the area thoroughly. Do not use larger amounts than prescribed or leave it in place for longer than directed since the chance for side effects may be increased. Avoid contact with the eyes. Use cautiously near the nose and mouth.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause temporary redness, tingling or lightening of the skin. If these symptoms continue or become worse inform your doctor. Notify your doctor immediately if you develop blistering of the skin where the medication is applied. Also report: breathing trouble, nervousness, dizziness, mental confusion. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: blood disorders, liver disease, allergies (especially to anesthetics). This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication is found in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, including: antibiotics (esp. sulfas and dapsone), nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin), phenytoin, phenobarbital, acetaminophen, benzocaine, chloroquine, phenacetin, quinine, primaquine, pamaquine, nitroprusside, lidocaine-like heart medicines (antiarrhythmics). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as remembered do not use it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double-up the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat. Check the expiration date on the tube and discard any expired medication.
