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Compare Lidoderm vs. Hydrocortisone

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

Key takeaways

Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm) and hydrocortisone cream (Locoid, Pandel) are both used to treat skin-related conditions, but they belong to different medication classes. Lidoderm is a local anesthetic used to numb nerve pain from shingles, while hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Lidoderm is a prescription-only patch that's applied once daily for up to 12 hours in a 24-hour period. Hydrocortisone cream is available both over-the-counter and by prescription, with application frequency varying by formulation. Lidoderm patches can cause skin irritation and have potential interactions with other medications, while hydrocortisone may lead to skin thinning and irritation if used long-term. Both medications should be used as directed to minimize side effects and interactions.

  • Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)
    Topical hydrocortisone
  • Lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm)
    Topical hydrocortisone

  • Summary of Lidoderm vs. Hydrocortisone

    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

    Topical hydrocortisone is a steroid medication used to treat different skin conditions, such as eczema. It's available in many different formulations, including cream, ointment, lotion, and solution. Some strengths are found over the counter (e.g., hydrocortisone 1%), while you need a prescription for others (e.g., hydrocortisone 2.5%). In general, most people experience few to no side effects while using topical hydrocortisone as directed. Rarely, topical hydrocortisone might cause topical steroid withdrawal (TSW). Watch out for skin rashes and irritations that get worse after stopping this medication.

  • Indications of Lidoderm vs. Hydrocortisone

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

    Short-term relief of skin irritations (e.g., itching) due to:

    •Skin inflammation
    •Skin rashes
    •Eczema
    •Psoriasis
    •Insect bites
    •Poison ivy or oak
    •Skin allergies
    •Dry scalp
    •Genital or rectal irritation

  • Pros and Cons of Lidoderm vs. Hydrocortisone

    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
    •Available over the counter
    •Many formulations to choose from, such as ointment, cream, and solution
    Cons
    •Short-term use only, otherwise it might cause skin thinning and high blood sugar
    •Applied multiple times a day
    •Might affect your body's ability to fight off infections

  • Common Side Effects of Lidoderm vs. Hydrocortisone

    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
    •Burning
    •Itching
    •Skin irritation
    •Dry skin
    •Inflamed hair follicles

  • Warnings of Lidoderm vs. Hydrocortisone

    Common Side Effects for
    •Blood problem (methemoglobinemia)
    •Absorbing too much medication
    •Accidental poisoning in children or pets
    Common Side Effects for
    •Hormone problems and withdrawal
    •High blood sugar
    •New or worsened skin infection
    •Skin problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Lidoderm vs. Hydrocortisone

    Learn more about Lidocaine 5% patch
    Learn more about Topical hydrocortisone

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