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.
