Lidocaine is a common medicine used for pain relief in various forms including gels, sprays and ointments. One widely used presentation of lidocaine is lidocaine ointment, which provides effective topical relief from minor aches and pains. Let's take a deeper look at lidocaine ointment and its uses.
What is Lidocaine Ointment?
Lidocaine ointment is a topical numbing medication made of 5% lidocaine that comes in a cream or gel form. Lidocaine works by blocking sodium channels in nerve cells, which interrupts the ability of nerves to send pain signals to the brain. When applied topically as an ointment, lidocaine creates a numbing sensation on the skin to relieve pain at the application site.
Lidocaine was first synthesized in 1943 and was approved by the FDA for use as a local anesthetic. Today, lidocaine ointment is considered very safe when used as directed for temporary pain relief of minor conditions affecting the skin or mucous membranes.
Uses of Lidocaine Ointment
Some common uses of lidocaine ointment include:
- Minor burns - Lidocaine ointment helps reduce pain from minor burns, sunburns, and other mild thermal injuries affecting the skin.
- Herpes lesions - The numbing effect of lidocaine provides soothing relief from the pain of herpes sores, especially during outbreaks.
- Shingles - Pain associated with shingles rashes can be diminished with regular application of lidocaine ointment.
- Minor procedures - Doctors sometimes apply lidocaine ointment before minor medical procedures like injections or wound dressings to reduce discomfort.
- Postpartum pain - New mothers sometimes find relief from perineal pain after childbirth by using lidocaine ointment as directed by their doctor.
- Diaper rash - Soothing numbing sensation from lidocaine can momentarily relieve pain from diaper rash in babies and children.
- Minor skin irritations - Conditions like poison ivy, minor cuts, abrasions, and more respond well to lidocaine ointment treatment.
How to Use Lidocaine Ointment
When using lidocaine ointment, it's important to follow instructions carefully for best results and safety. Here are some tips for proper lidocaine ointment use:
- Wash hands before and after application. Keep ointment away from eyes and mouth.
- Apply a thin layer to the affected area 2-3 times daily and as needed for pain relief.
- Gently rub into skin until fully absorbed. Don't cover with bandage unless directed.
- Use just enough to coat the painful area - a little goes a long way with lidocaine ointment.
- Contact doctor if pain is severe or doesn't improve after 1-2 days of treatment.
- Store at room temperature and replace ointment if it changes color or consistency.
- Avoid applying to broken skin unless instructed by a medical provider.
Safety and Side Effects
Overall, lidocaine ointment is very well-tolerated for most individuals when used as directed for short periods. However, some potential side effects with extended use or misuse may include:
- Skin rash or irritation at application site - Using too much ointment or applying over large areas could potentially cause this mild reaction.
- Allergic reaction - True allergies to lidocaine are very rare but possible in sensitive individuals. Signs may include hives, swelling, or redness.
- Dizziness - Ingesting or getting lidocaine ointment in eyes or mouth could potentially cause lightheadedness in some cases. Again, this is not common with proper use.
- Interactions - Lidocaine could potentially interact with medications like cardiac drugs or calcium channel blockers. Always consult a doctor about potential for interactions.
When used appropriately for minor, temporary pain relief, lidocaine ointment presents an effective topical treatment option for many individuals. Always consult a healthcare provider with any concerns or questions about lidocaine ointment safety or side effects.
Conclusion
In summary, lidocaine ointment provides soothing numbing relief from minor aches and pains affecting the skin through its temporary nerve blocking ability. Boasting a strong safety profile when taken as directed, this affordable topical analgesic remains a trusted option for conditions like burns, shingles, trauma wounds and more. Combining proper application technique with awareness of potential interactions and misuse risks helps ensure lidocaine ointment's pain-relieving benefits can be enjoyed by many.
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