- What is lidocaine patch-topical, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
- Is lidocaine patch-topical available as a generic drug?
- Do I need a prescription for lidocaine patch-topical?
- What are the uses for lidocaine patch-topical?
- What are the side effects of lidocaine patch-topical?
- What is the dosage for lidocaine patch-topical?
- Which drugs or supplements interact with lidocaine patch-topical?
- Is lidocaine patch-topical safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
- What else should I know about lidocaine patch-topical?
What is lidocaine patch-topical, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Lidocaine is an amide-type, local anesthetic medication available in a patch form. Lidocaine, like other local anesthetics causes a loss of sensation by reducing the flow of sodium in and out nerves to decrease the initiation and transfer of nerve signals. The FDA approved lidocaine patch in March 1999.
What are the uses for lidocaine patch-topical?
Lidocaine patches are prescribed for relief of pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia.
What are the side effects of lidocaine patch-topical?
Common side effects of lidocaine patches include:
- local burning,
- bruising,
- blisters,
- itching,
- irritation,
- lightheadedness,
- dizziness,
- nausea,
- nervousness,
- blurred vision, and
- low blood pressure.
What is the dosage for lidocaine patch-topical?
The recommended dose for lidocaine patches is to apply up to three patches, for up to 12 hours within a 24-hour period. Apply patches to intact skin to cover the most painful area; apply to intact skin, not over blisters or other skin that is not intact.
Which drugs or supplements interact with lidocaine patch-topical?
Lidocaine patches should be used with caution with anti-arrhythmia medications like:
- amiodarone (Cordarone),
- propafenone (Rhythmol),
- sotalol (Betapace),
- tocainide (Tonocard) and
- mexiletine (Mexitil).
Such combinations can affect heart rate and rhythm and cause other additive side effects.
SLIDESHOW
See SlideshowIs lidocaine patch-topical safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
There are no adequate studies done on lidocaine patches to determine safe and effective use in pregnant women.
Lidocaine may enter breast milk in trace amounts; therefore, it is best to be cautious before using it in nursing mothers.
What else should I know about lidocaine patch-topical?
What preparations of lidocaine patch-topical are available?
Lidocaine patch: 5%
How should I keep lidocaine patch-topical stored?
Store lidocaine patches between temperatures of 15 C to 30 C (59 F to 86 F).
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Summary
Lidocaine (Lidoderm) is a local anesthetic drug used to relieve pain associated with postherpetic neuralgia. Side effects, drug interactions, dosage, storage, and pregnancy safety information should be reviewed prior to using this medicaiton.
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Treatment & Diagnosis
Medications & Supplements
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
REFERENCE:
FDA Prescribing Information