What is Lidocaine Ointment?
Lidocaine ointment is a topical medication used to provide relief from pain associated with minor skin irritations, burns, insect bites, skin abrasions, sunburn, and other conditions causing itching or pain. It belongs to a class of medications known as local anesthetics that work by temporarily numbing the nerve endings in the skin.
How Does it Work?
Lidocaine ointment contains the active ingredient lidocaine, which is classified as an amide-type local anesthetic. When applied to the skin, lidocaine works by blocking sodium channels in nerve cell membranes. This prevents the conduction of electrical signals along nerve cell axons and results in relief from pain impulses being sensed by the brain. The numbing effect of lidocaine typically occurs within 5-10 minutes of application and lasts up to 2-3 hours depending on the severity of the condition and amount of ointment used.
Approved Uses
Lidocaine ointment is approved by the FDA for relief of pain associated with minor burns, sunburn, insect bites, skin abrasions, and other localized skin irritations. Common over-the-counter uses include:
– Sunburn pain relief: Lidocaine provides relief from the stinging and pain caused by sunburn by blocking pain signals from sun damaged skin.
– Shingles pain relief: Shingles causes a painful rash that lidocaine ointment can help numb. It provides temporary relief from the burning, stabbing pains.
– Eczema flare relief: Eczema flare-ups can cause itching and pain that lidocaine helps temper by numbing the irritated skin.
– Hemorrhoid pain: Lidocaine ointment soothes the burning and itching caused by hemorrhoids when applied topically.
– Post-procedural pain: After procedures like laser hair removal or wart removal that cause minor skin trauma, lidocaine soothes resulting pain.
Administration and Usage
Lidocaine ointment is meant for external use on the skin only. It comes in a variety of concentrations from 1-5% lidocaine and is usually sold over-the-counter without a prescription. To use it, clean and dry the affected area before applying a small amount of ointment. Gently rub it in and reapply as needed for pain relief, up to 5 times daily. Wash hands after use. Lidocaine should not be used on broken skin or in body cavities.
Safety and Side Effects
When used as directed for short-term treatment, lidocaine ointment is generally well tolerated. Some potential side effects may include skin redness, itching, rash or skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Lidocaine should not be used on large areas of broken, infected, or burned skin due to increased risk of systemic side effects if absorbed in large amounts. Prolonged use or overuse can potentially cause numbness or tingling in the treated area lasting over 24 hours, which is usually temporary. As with any medication, lidocaine ointment should be stored away from reach of children and pets.
Alternative Analgesic Options
For some conditions, other topical analgesics may provide relief similar to lidocaine but with potentially less risk of side effects:
– Calamine lotion – Contains zinc oxide and helps dry oozing skin conditions while soothing itch and pain.
– Pramoxine cream – A pramoxine hydrochloride analgesic cream that has a similar mechanism of action to lidocaine but is less likely to cause skin reactions.
– Benzocaine cream/gel – Acts as a topical anesthetic like lidocaine but is not recommended for broken skin due to increased risk of methemoglobinemia adverse reactions with benzocaine.
– Topical NSAIDs – Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory gels or creams containing ingredients like ibuprofen or ketoprofen may help reduce pain and inflammation from minor skin injuries or sunburn.
Cost and Availability
Lidocaine ointment is available for purchase without a prescription at most pharmacies and drug stores. Cost varies depending on the concentration and size of the tube or jar, but it typically ranges from $5 to $15 for a 1-2 oz container of 1-5% lidocaine ointment. Most insurance plans do not cover the cost due to it being available OTC. The medication has a shelf life of 1-2 years when unexpired and stored properly sealed at room temperature away from light and moisture.
In Summary
For temporary relief of minor skin pains and irritation, lidocaine ointment provides a safe and effective topical analgesic option available without a prescription. With proper usage as directed on product packaging or by a healthcare provider, lidocaine can numb painful skin conditions quickly and spare sufferers discomfort. Alternatives exist for those preferring creams to ointments or having lidocaine sensitivities as well.
