Prilocaine/Lignocaine

What is Prilocaine/Lignocaine for?

This medication contains two topical anaesthetics, lignocaine and prilocaine. When applied to the skin, it causes temporary numbing of the skin (short term loss of sensation to the skin area) 

How should I take or use Prilocaine/Lignocaine?

• Squeeze out the prescribed quantity of the cream on the area of the skin where the procedure or injection is to be done. Do not rub EMLA cream into the skin. 
• Take one of the occlusive dressings provided, and remove the cut-out piece in the middle 
• Peel the paper liner from the framed dressing. 
• Cover the EMLA cream with this dressing so that you get a thick layer of cream between your skin and the dressing. Do not spread out the cream. Press down on the sides of the dressing carefully to avoid leakages. It is important to cover EMLA cream with an air-tight dressing to ensure that the cream enters the skin properly and numbs the skin 
• Remove the frame of the dressing. Write down the time the cream was applied, directly on the dressing. 
• Wash your hands immediately after using EMLA. 
• Remove the dressing and wipe off the cream after the recommended duration of application in the table below or as advised by your doctor. 

Your doctor may use EMLA cream for specialized procedures. Follow your doctor's instructions for use.

What should I do if I forget to take or use Prilocaine/Lignocaine?

EMLA 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 medication later than directed, tell your health care professional before starting the procedure.

What precautions should I take when taking or using Prilocaine/Lignocaine?

• Inform your healthcare professional if you have: 
• Allergy to prilocaine, lignocaine/lidocaine, local anaesthetics, or any of the other ingredients of this medication 
• Dermatitis or any other skin problems 
• Severe liver conditions 
• Severe heart rhythm conditions 
• Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. 
• Methaemoglobinaemia (a blood disorder that causes the skin, especially around lips and nails, to turn brownish or greyish) 
• Infection, skin rash or broken skin at, or near the area where you want to apply EMLA cream 
• Plans to become pregnant, are pregnant or breastfeeding 
• The skin on which EMLA cream is applied may stay numb for up to several hours after the cream is removed. For this reason, you should be careful to avoid accidental injury to the treated area, such as scratching, rubbing or exposure to extreme temperatures, until complete sensation returns. 
• Avoid getting EMLA cream in your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you get EMLA in your eyes, rinse them with plenty of water. If the medication is swallowed, call a doctor immediately. 
• Do not apply to ruptured eardrum, anus, or children’s genital areas. 
• Children should be closely observed during and after use of EMLA cream, as they are at greater risk than adults for serious side effects, such as methaemoglobinemia.

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use Prilocaine/Lignocaine?

Inform your doctor if you are taking 

What are some common side effects of Prilocaine/Lignocaine?

Common side effects include: 

How should I store Prilocaine/Lignocaine?

• Keep away from children
• Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight
• Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.

How do I throw away Prilocaine/Lignocaine safely?