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Compare Lidoderm vs. Cortisone

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Lidoderm (lidocaine 5% patch) and cortisone are both prescription medications that can hep with pain, but they belong to different drug classes and treat different conditions. Lidoderm is a local anesthetic specifically FDA-approved for treating nerve pain from shingles, known as postherpetic neuralgia. It works by numbing the nerves in the skin. Cortisone is a corticosteroid used to treat conditions involving an overactive immune system, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. It help reduce swelling to help with pain and movement problems associated with these conditions. Lidoderm is applied as a 5% patch once a day for up to 12 hours, while cortisone is an oral tablet, and the dosing varies widely based on the condition being treated. Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic. Common side effects of Lidoderm include skin irritation and whereas cortisone can cause fluid retention and insomnia, and may lead to an increased risk of infections and bone weakening with long-term use.

  • Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)
    Cortisone
  • Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)
    Cortisone

  • Summary of Lidoderm vs. Cortisone

    Summary for Local anesthetic
    Prescription only

    Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm) is a prescription medication used to relieve nerve pain caused by a shingles infection, also called postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). It's a local anesthetic that works by numbing your nerves to help reduce pain. You apply the patch directly to the painful area of your skin once a day, and it can be worn for up to 12 hours in a 24-hour period. Common side effects include temporary skin irritation, redness, and a mild burning sensation where the patch is applied.

    Summary for Corticosteroid
    Prescription only

    Cortisone is a short-acting steroid medication used to treat different conditions that involve an overactive immune system. It's taken by mouth, but your dose can differ depending on condition you taking cortisone for. Short-term side effects of cortisone include changes in appetite, mood swings, and trouble sleeping. If you take this medication for a long time, you might experience weight gain or weakening of your bones.

  • Indications of Lidoderm vs. Cortisone

    Indications for
    •Nerve pain caused by shingles (postherpetic neuralgia)
    Indications for

    Cortisone is used for many different medical conditions, including:

    •Conditions affecting certain hormones (e.g., low adrenal hormones)
    •Joint conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
    •Lupus
    •Skin conditions (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome)
    •Allergic reactions
    •Eye inflammation
    •Lung problems
    •Conditions related to blood cells
    •Cancer of blood cells (e.g., leukemia)
    •Gut conditions (e.g., ulcerative colitis)

  • Pros and Cons of Lidoderm vs. Cortisone

    Pros and Const for Local anesthetic
    Pros
    •Works directly on the skin
    •Generally well-tolerated with few side effects
    •Can cut patches to fit the area of pain
    Cons
    •Commonly causes skin irritation
    •Must avoid contact with water wearing the patch
    •Might interact with many medications
    Pros and Const for Corticosteroid
    Pros
    •Available as a lower-cost, generic medication
    •Works well to treat many different conditions involving the immune system
    •Less potent compared to other steroids, which might lead to fewer side effects
    Cons
    •Long-term use might weaken your bones and cause high blood sugar
    •Can slow down growth in children
    •Stopping suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms if you've been taking it for a long time

  • Common Side Effects of Lidoderm vs. Cortisone

    Common Side Effects for
    •Blisters
    •Bruising
    •Burning sensation
    •Changes in skin color
    •Rash or redness
    •Swelling
    •Peeling or flaking skin
    •Itching
    •Small bumps or spots
    •Tiny red or purple dots under the skin
    •Tingling or numbness in the area
    Common Side Effects for
    •Swelling
    •Muscle weakness
    •Stomach pain
    •Bloating
    •Increased appetite
    •Trouble sleeping
    •Weight gain
    •Dizziness
    •Nausea

  • Warnings of Lidoderm vs. Cortisone

    Common Side Effects for
    •Blood problem (methemoglobinemia)
    •Absorbing too much medication
    •Accidental poisoning in children or pets
    Common Side Effects for
    •New or worsened infection
    •Mood and behavior changes
    •Reduced adrenal gland health
    •Changes in heart and kidney function
    •Stomach problems
    •Eye problems with long-term use
    •Bone problems with long-term use
    •High blood sugar

  • Prices with our coupons for Lidoderm vs. Cortisone

    Learn more about Lidocaine 5% patch
    Learn more about Cortisone

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