Lidocaine cream is a topical anesthetic widely used to temporarily relieve pain and discomfort. It is commonly applied to the skin to numb areas affected by minor burns, scrapes, insect bites, or skin irritations. This cream is also used before certain medical procedures or injections to reduce associated pain, providing localized relief without affecting consciousness.
How Lidocaine Cream Works
Lidocaine cream functions by directly affecting nerve signals in the treated area of the skin. It belongs to a class of medications called local anesthetics. The active ingredient, lidocaine, works by blocking sodium channels found within the membranes of nerve cells.
When these sodium channels are blocked, sodium ions cannot flow into the nerve cells. This action prevents the generation and transmission of electrical impulses, which are the pain messages that would normally travel from the nerve endings to the brain. By interrupting this process, lidocaine numbs the specific area, preventing pain sensation.
Onset and Duration of Effect
Lidocaine cream typically begins working within a few minutes to about half an hour. For instance, a 5% lidocaine ointment may start to provide local anesthesia within 3 to 5 minutes of application. A topical 4% lidocaine gel has shown significant anesthetic effects within 25-30 minutes, with optimal numbing observed between 35-40 minutes after application.
The duration of the numbing effect from lidocaine cream can vary. Pain relief can last for 30 to 60 minutes. Some formulations, like certain patches, can provide effects up to 12 hours. These timeframes are guidelines, and individual experiences may differ.
Factors Influencing Performance and Safe Use
Several factors can influence how quickly lidocaine cream works and how long its numbing effect lasts. The concentration of lidocaine in the cream plays a role, with higher concentrations leading to more profound and quicker anesthesia. The amount of cream applied and the specific area of application also influence its performance, as thicker skin areas may require more time for the medication to penetrate.
It is important to apply the smallest amount of cream needed to numb the skin or relieve pain. Applying too much, covering large skin areas, or using heat, bandages, or plastic wrap over the treated area can increase the absorption of lidocaine into the body, potentially leading to systemic side effects. Do not apply lidocaine cream to infected, open, or damaged skin, as this can increase the risk of adverse reactions. Always follow the directions on the product label and consult a healthcare provider if you have questions or experience any unusual effects.