Lidocaine 2.5% and Prilocaine 2.5% Cream (EMLA® Cream) is used to numb the skin before minor painful procedures, most often needle sticks and minor surgical or dermatological procedures. It should be applied only to intact skin in the amounts and for the time recommended by your healthcare provider.
Uses
Lidocaine 2.5% and Prilocaine 2.5% Cream is used for:
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Numbing the skin before procedures: To prevent pain from needle injections, blood draws, IV placement, vaccinations.
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Before minor skin procedures: Such as laser therapy, minor dermatological surgeries, wart removal, or tattoo procedures.
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Certain cosmetic procedures: Like laser hair removal or dermal filler injections.
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Pediatric uses: Numbing before routine childhood vaccinations or other minor procedures.
How It Works
- Both lidocaine and prilocaine are local anesthetics. They block nerve signals in the skin, making the area temporarily numb to pain.
- The cream is applied to intact (unbroken) skin before the procedure, usually 30–60 minutes in advance, sometimes covered with an occlusive dressing (e.g., plastic wrap) to help absorption.
- The numbing effect lasts for up to 1–2 hours after removal.
Important Information
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Do not apply to large areas, broken or irritated skin, or mucous membranes unless directed by your healthcare provider.
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Use only as directed. Overuse or misuse can cause side effects such as methemoglobinemia (a rare blood disorder, most commonly in infants).
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Keep out of children’s reach unless a doctor suggests its use.
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May cause local skin reactions: Redness, paleness, swelling, or mild irritation at the application site.
Lidocaine 2.5% and Prilocaine 2.5% Cream is a prescription topical numbing cream, commonly known as EMLA, used to temporarily numb healthy skin before minor painful procedures. Always use as instructed by your healthcare provider.
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