Emla

Emla is a cream which is a topical anesthetic to decrease pain on normal intact skin and in other areas of the body such as the genital mucous membranes for superficial minor surgery and as pretreatment for anesthesia.

This drug is available as a cream containing lidocaine 25 milligram in 1 gram and prilocaine 25 milligram in 1 gram.

Instructions

You should read the product information leaflet before using this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Your dosage is based on your medical condition and the way you will respond to treatment. Take this drug regularly to experience the most benefits. You should also use this drug at the same time each day.

This drug is to be applied to the skin only. Avoid using it in the face, groin, or underarms, or for diaper rash, unless told so by your doctor.

First, wash and dry your hand before applying. The affected area should be cleansed and dried. The medication should be applied as a thin film to be gently rubbed in, as instructed by your doctor. Avoid covering or wrapping the treated area. Wash your hands after use. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth or mucous membranes. If contact occurs, rinse with plenty of water.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. Continue to use it as prescribed by your doctor or as stated on the package label.

Interactions

Emla may interact with medications such as:

Drugs that may cause methemoglobinemiasuch as acetaminophen, benzocaine, phenobarbital, antimalarials(choroquine, primaquine or quinine), nitrates, sulfonamides, nitrofurantoin or dapsone
Amiodarone, bretylium,mexiletine, phenytoin, sotalol and other similar medications

Side Effects

There are no side effects known aside from a possible allergic reaction in people who have previous or unknown hypersensitivity to the drug.

Watch out for signs of allergic reactions such as:

• Rash
• Itching
• Swelling

Warnings

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have the following:

• Allergy to lidocaine or prilocaine or to any other amide anesthetics such as bupivacaine
• Methemoglobinemia (a blood disorder)
• G6PD deficiency, especially in children
• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Pregnancy or lactation