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Phenol vs. Lidoderm

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

Key takeaways

Phenol spray (Chloraseptic Sore Throat) and lidocaine 5% patch (Lidoderm) are both local anesthetics used to relieve pain, but they differ in their specific uses and forms. Phenol spray is available over the counter and is used to temporarily relieve sore throat and minor mouth pain by numbing the area. It is sprayed topically every two hours as needed. In contrast, Lidoderm is a prescription patch used to relieve nerve pain from shingles, known as postherpetic neuralgia. You apply the patch to the skin once a day for up to 12 hours. in a 24-hour period While phenol spray is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects, Lidoderm can cause skin irritation and has more potential side effects.

Phenol spray

(Chloraseptic Sore Throat)

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Lidocaine 5% patch

(Lidoderm)

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Summary for Phenol

Over-the-counter

Phenol spray (Chloraseptic Sore Throat) is a local anesthetic. It eases sore throat and mouth irritation by numbing the area. This medication is available over the counter and can be used by adults and children. Phenol spray (Chloraseptic Sore Throat) is sprayed directly into the mouth and throat once every 2 hours as needed. After each spray, you hold this medication in your mouth for about 15 seconds, then spit it out. Phenol spray (Chloraseptic Sore Throat) comes in different flavors, as well as sugar-free options. It doesn't have many side effects when used as directed.

Indications for Phenol

  • Temporarily relieves sore throat and minor pain and irritation in the mouth

Pros and Cons for Phenol

Pros

  • Conveniently available over the counter
  • Can be sprayed directly to the sore area in the mouth
  • Available in different flavors
  • Works within 5 to 10 minutes to relieve sore throat or mouth

Cons

  • Might need to use multiple times per day
  • Might not be recommended for children under 3 years old
  • Only meant to be used short-term
  • Unknown if safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding

Common Side Effects for Phenol

This medication doesn't typically cause side effects when used as directed.

Warnings for Phenol

  • Severe sore throat

Summary for Lidoderm

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.

Indications for Lidoderm

Pros and Cons for Lidoderm

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

Common Side Effects for Lidoderm

  • 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

Warnings for Lidoderm

  • Blood problem (methemoglobinemia)
  • Absorbing too much medication
  • Accidental poisoning in children or pets

Prices with our coupons for Phenol vs. Lidoderm

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Phenol1 bottle / 177ml of 1.4%
$12.02-
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Lidocaine30 patches / 5%
$60.19$131.34
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