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Lidocaine OTC Coupon - Lidocaine OTC 5 patches of 4% carton

lidocaine

Generic Aspercreme with Lidocaine
Used for Itching, Pain
Used for Itching, Pain

Topical lidocaine products are applied to the surface of the skin. They're commonly used for temporary relief of pain, itching, and burning from certain conditions, such as sunburns, scrapes, and minor cuts or skin irritations. They're also used to ease pain and discomfort in medical or skin procedures. Topical lidocaine come in many different forms, such as topical creams, ointment, gels, and foaming soaps, and most are available over the counter. If used as directed, topical lidocaine shouldn't cause many side effects. But if you apply more than recommended, topical lidocaine can cause dizziness, headache, and confusion.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Connie Zheng, PharmD
reviewer
Ashley Wong, PharmD
Last reviewed on May 14, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Topical lidocaine?

What is Topical lidocaine used for?

Topical lidocaine products come in many forms and strengths. Each can be used for different conditions.

In general, they're used for temporary relief of pain, itching, burning, or discomfort from:

  • Minor burns

  • Sunburns

  • Minor cuts

  • Scrapes

  • Insect bites

  • Minor skin irritations

  • Joint and muscle pain

  • Hemorrhoids and other irritations in the anal area

  • Tattoos, piercings, microblading, and other skin procedures

How Topical lidocaine works

Topical lidocaine products ease pain and skin irritation by numbing the nerves and making them less sensitive to pain or irritation. Lidocaine is a local anesthetic, meaning it only lowers pain in the area of skin closely around or directly in contact with the medication.

Are you looking for information on the lidocaine patch or lidocaine viscous instead?
When does Topical lidocaine start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsLiDORx, BLUE-EMU Numbing Pain Relief Cream, Aspercreme, Icy Hot Max
Drug ClassLocal anesthetic
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription or over-the-counter
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Avg retail price
$69.05(save 92.51%)
GoodRx discount
$5.17
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What are the side effects of Topical lidocaine?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

The side effects below only apply to lidocaine 5% ointment and LiDORx (lidocaine) 3% gel:
  • Lightheadedness
  • Dizziness
  • Feeling sleepy and tired
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Blurry or double vision
  • Vomiting
  • Feeling hot, cold, or numb
  • Twitching, shaking
  • Seizures
  • Coma
  • Trouble breathing
  • Slow heart rate
  • Low blood pressure

Other Side Effects

The side effects below only apply to lidocaine 5% ointment and LiDORx (lidocaine) 3% gel:
  • Nervousness
  • Overwhelming feeling of happiness and joy
  • Feeling confused

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
The side effects below only apply to lidocaine 5% ointment and LiDORx (lidocaine) 3% gel:
  • Blood problems (methemoglobinemia): Seizures, loss of consciousness, fast heart beat, trouble breathing, feeling dizzy or faint, feeling tired, skin color turning blue
  • Too much lidocaine in your body: Drowsiness, confusion, slow heart beat, trouble breathing, difficulty controlling muscle movements
  • Serious allergic reactions: Swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, trouble speaking, throat tightening up, red and itchy rash, lightheadedness, clammy skin

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Rare

Blistering, crusting, irritation, itching, or reddening of the skin

cough

cracked, dry, or scaly skin

fast heartbeat

fever

hives or welts, itching, skin rash

hoarseness

irritation

joint pain, stiffness, or swelling

large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or genitals

noisy breathing

swelling of the eyelids, face, lips, hands, or feet

tightness in the chest

trouble breathing or swallowing

Incidence not known

Blistering, bruising, burning, discoloration, itching, redness, or swelling at the application site

bluish-colored lips, fingernails, or palms

blurred vision

chest pain or discomfort

cold, clammy, or pale skin

confusion

dark urine

dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

drowsiness or dizziness

false or unusual sense of well-being

fear or nervousness

headache

irregular, fast or slow, or shallow breathing

loss of consciousness

no blood pressure or pulse

pale or blue lips, fingernails, or skin

puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

rapid heart rate

seizures

shakiness in the legs, arms, hands, or feet

slow or irregular heartbeat

sore throat

stopping of the heart

trembling or shaking of the hands or feet

twitching

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusual drowsiness, dullness, tiredness, weakness, or feeling of sluggishness

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Incidence not known

Bad, unusual, or unpleasant (after) taste

change in taste

cold or numbness

confusion about identity, place, and time

continuing ringing or buzzing or other unexplained noise in the ears

double vision

hearing loss

heat sensation

lack or loss of strength

metallic taste

sleepiness or unusual drowsiness

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Topical lidocaine

thumbs-up

Pros

Available in many strengths and forms

Most strengths and forms are available over the counter

Most strengths and forms are available as lower-cost generic medications

Can be used as needed

thumbs-down

Cons

Not recommended for use over large areas of injured or blistered skin because of higher risk of side effects

Not recommended for use in young children

Generally not recommended for use for longer than 1 week, unless directed by your doctor

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Topical lidocaine

pharmacist

  • Always wash your hands after applying topical lidocaine. Otherwise, leftover lidocaine on your hands can cause very bothersome irritation if it accidentally gets on sensitive areas of the skin, such as your eyes.

    • Avoid applying topical lidocaine to large areas of your skin, especially if you have blisters or open wounds. This can cause your skin to absorb more medication and lead to serious side effects.

      • If you're using the lidocaine 5% cream for hemorrhoids, only apply the medication to the irritated skin outside the anus. Don't use your finger or applicators to insert the cream inside the anus.

        • Talk with your healthcare provider if your pain lasts more than 7 days, if your condition doesn't get better, or if your symptoms returns after getting better.

          • It's not recommended to use more than one medication that contains lidocaine at the same time. Doing so can lead to skin irritations or more serious side effects, such as seizure, heart rhythm problems, and coma. Topical lidocaine can be found in many over-the-counter pain medications that you apply on your skin. These include pain patches, soaps, gels, and creams. Talk with your pharmacist or healthcare provider if you're not sure whether you're using multiple topical lidocaine products.

            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Topical lidocaine

            How long does topical lidocaine take to work?
            How long it takes for topical lidocaine to relieve pain can differ depending on what kind of product you use (e.g., cream, ointment, or gel) and where you apply the medication. A couple of studies looking at how well a particular lidocaine 4% gel worked in easing pain from cosmetic skin procedure showed that many people experienced pain relief in about 25 to 40 minutes.
            How long does topical lidocaine last?
            How long topical lidocaine relieves pain can differ depending on what kind of product you use (e.g., cream, ointment, or gel) and where you apply the medication. Many over-the-counter topical lidocaine products instruct you to apply them 3 to 4 times daily. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions from your particular product in order to use the product safely. Apply too much topical lidocaine or applying it more often than recommended can lead to serious side effects like drowsiness or confusion.
            Can I apply topical lidocaine directly on my skin for minor skin injuries?
            When possible, first clean your injuries with mild soap and water, and pat dry before applying topical lidocaine products. This will not only help remove dirt from your wounds, but also help prevent infection. After cleaning your injuries, you can apply this medication directly to your skin.
            Can I use topical lidocaine for pain inside my mouth?
            No, topical lidocaine products are for external use only. This means they should only be used outside the body. They shouldn't be applied in areas such as the inside of the mouth, the eyes, and inside the anus. Lidocaine viscous is the only topical lidocaine product approved for use inside the mouth, but it's only available with a prescription. If you have pain inside your body, talk with your healthcare provider to see what are some good treatment options for you.
            What is the difference between the different topical lidocaine products?
            Topical lidocaine products come in different strengths and forms. Depending on what you're using this medication for or depending on personal preference, certain strengths and forms may work better or be more appropriate for you. For example, the lidocaine 4% cream can be used to treat hemorrhoids. The lidocaine 4% foaming soap can be used to both clean and numb the skin during procedures like tattooing or piercing. The lidocaine spray might be more convenient to use if you want to avoid getting the medication on your hands. Each product has specific instructions for use. To make sure you’re using topical lidocaine products correctly, refer to the product’s administration directions and talk to your provider or pharmacist.
            Are all topical lidocaine products available over the counter?
            Most topical lidocaine topical products are available over the counter (OTC). Although there are products that require a prescription, such as LiDORx (lidocaine) gel 3% and Ziloval kit 5%.
            Is topical lidocaine safe to use during pregnancy?
            Topical lidocaine products haven't been well-studied in human pregnancies. But limited reports suggest that they don't raise the risk for birth defects or miscarriages if used during pregnancy. Ask your provider if you've more questions about whether or not you can use topical lidocaine during pregnancy.
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            What are the risks and warnings for Topical lidocaine?

            Topical lidocaine can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

            risk-warning

            Using too much medication

            • Risk factors: Using topical lidocaine more often or at a higher dose than recommended

              Use topical lidocaine only as directed by your healthcare provider. Using it more often or at a higher dose than recommended can cause this medication to build up in your body. Contact your doctor before you apply topical lidocaine on infected wounds or severely damaged skin. These conditions can cause your body to absorb high amounts of lidocaine. Too much lidocaine can lead to serious side effects, such as seizures, trouble breathing, low blood pressure, slow heart rate, and your heart suddenly stopping. Get medical help right away if you experience these symptoms while using topical lidocaine.

              risk-warning

              Blood problem (methemoglobinemia)

              • Risk factors: History of methemoglobinemia | History of low glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) | Heart or lung problems | Age 6 months or younger | Exposure to other oxidizing agents, such as chlorine and hydrogen peroxide

                Lidocaine 5% ointment and LiDORx (lidocaine) 3% gel can cause methemoglobinemia, a serious blood problem where your red blood cells cannot bring enough oxygen to your body. Your risk is higher if you have low G6PD, a condition passed down from parent to child, where your red blood cells tend to burst or break apart. Be careful using topical lidocaine if you're around oxidizing chemicals, such as chlorine and hydrogen peroxide. These chemicals might be present in common household products like cleaning supplies and hair dye. Methemoglobinemia can occur immediately or within hours of using topical lidocaine. Earliest signs include headache, tiredness, and your skin turning blue. Get medical help right away to avoid more serious and life-threatening side effects like seizures, loss of consciousness, and heart rhythm problems (fast heart beat, dizziness, shortness of breath).

                dosage

                Topical lidocaine dosage forms

                The average cost for 6 cartons of 5 patches of 4% of Topical lidocaine is $23.66 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 65.74% off the average retail price of $69.05.
                bottle of spray
                Bottle of spray
                DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                127g of 0.5%1 bottle$8.72$8.72
                carton
                Carton
                DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                5 patches of 4%6 cartons$23.66$3.94
                6 patches of 4%5 cartons$25.45$5.09
                10 patches of 4%3 cartons$27.48$9.16
                30 patches of 4%1 carton$22.03$22.03
                tube of cream
                Tube of cream
                DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                15g of 4%2 tubes$19.77$9.88
                28g of 4%1 tube$15.99$15.99
                30g of 4%1 tube$20.64$20.64
                76.5g of 4%1 tube$11.77$11.77
                113g of 4%1 tube$61.45$61.45
                15g of 5%1 tube$7.97$7.97
                30g of 5%1 tube$15.52$15.52
                tube of ointment
                Tube of ointment
                DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                76.5g of 4%2 tubes$5.17$2.58
                100g of 4%1 tube$8.68$8.68

                Typical dosing for Topical lidocaine

                Each product has specific instructions for use. To make sure you’re using topical lidocaine products correctly, refer to the product’s administration directions and talk to your provider or pharmacist.

                Pain, itching, and burning from hemorrhoids and other irritations in the anal area:

                • The typical dose is to apply lidocaine cream to the affected area(s) up to 6 times a day.

                • If using prescription-strength gel (LiDORx), the typical dose is to apply one to four pumps of gel to the affected area(s) 3 to 4 times a day. Don't use more than 16 pumps in 24 hours.

                Relief of joint and muscle pain:

                • The typical dose is to apply a thin layer of lidocaine ointment to the affected area(s) every 6 to 8 hours. Don't use more than 3 to 4 doses in 24 hours.

                • If using prescription-strength gel (LiDORx), the typical dose is to apply one to four pumps of gel to the affected area(s) 3 to 4 times a day. Don't use more than 16 pumps in 24 hours.

                Sunburns, scrapes, insect bites, and minor cuts or skin irritations:

                • The typical dose is to apply lidocaine gel, lotion, cream, or spray to the affected area(s) 3 to 4 times a day

                • If using lidocaine foaming soap, the typical dose is to apply 2 to 3 pumps and rub into the skin. Leave it on for 5 to 10 minutes. Rinse and air dry. Don't use this medication more than 3 times a day.

                Tattoos, piercings, microblading, and other skin procedures

                • The typical dose is to apply 2 to 3 pumps of lidocaine foaming soap and rub into the skin. Leave it on for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing or wiping off. Use before, during, and after the procedure.

                Medical procedures, vaccines and injections, nerve pain, pruritis, and pruritic eczema

                interactions

                Interactions between Topical lidocaine and other drugs

                Topical lidocaine may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Topical lidocaine. Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                • Dihydroergotamine
                • Dronedarone
                • Saquinavir
                • Vernakalant

                Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                alternatives

                What are alternatives to Topical lidocaine?

                There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Topical lidocaine. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                Topical lidocaine
                Used for:

                Topical lidocaine products come in many forms and strengths. Each can be used for different conditions.

                In general, they're used for temporary relief of pain, itching, burning, or discomfort from:

                • Minor burns

                • Sunburns

                • Minor cuts

                • Scrapes

                • Insect bites

                • Minor skin irritations

                • Joint and muscle pain

                • Hemorrhoids and other irritations in the anal area

                • Tattoos, piercings, microblading, and other skin procedures

                $5.17 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                Dibucaine (Nupercainal)
                Used for:

                • Pain, itching, and burning caused by hemorrhoids or other problems near the anus or rectum

                • Pain and itching caused by sunburns, insect bites, and minor cuts, burns, and skin irritation

                $5.73 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                Lidocaine
                Used for:

                • Nerve pain caused by shingles - 5% and 1.8% patches (by prescription only)

                • Temporary relief of minor pain - 4% patches (OTC)

                $52.10 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                images

                Topical lidocaine images

                This medicine is Colorless, Rectangular Carton.

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                References

                Best studies we found

                Gensco Laboratories. (2022). LIDO RX- lidocaine gel [package insert]. DailyMed.

                Meijer. (2023). MEIJER BURN RELIEF- lidocaine 0.5% spray [package insert]. DailyMed.

                Mother to Baby | Fact Sheets. (2021). Lidocaine.

                View All References (6)

                NFI. (2023). BLUE-EMU LIDOCAINE PAIN RELIEF CREAM- lidocaine cream 4% cream [package insert]. DailyMed.

                Plum Valley Pharma. (2022). ZILOVAL 5%- ziloval 5% [package insert]. DailyMed.

                Poison Control. (n.d.). Lidocaine can cause harmful effects.

                Renu Laboratiories. (2022). ELECTRUM NUMB FOAM- lidocaine hci soap [package insert]. DailyMed.

                Rugby Laboratories. (2021). ANORECTAL LIDOCAINE CREAM- lidocaine cream [package insert]. DailyMed.

                SOLA Pharmaceuticals. (2023). LIDOCAINE 5%- lidocaine 5% cream ointment [package insert]. DailyMed.

                GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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