brand:
EMLA™
manufacturer:
Astra Zeneca
active substances:
LIDOCAINE, PRILOCAINE
strength:
25mg/g Lidocaine, 25mg/g Prilocaine
pack size:
5 x 5mg Tube
accessories:
Package insert
EMLA® is a topical anesthetic cream used to numb the skin for various minor surgical procedures, such as blood sampling, vaccinations, insertion of intravenous catheters, and cleaning of leg ulcers. It is composed of a mixture of two local anesthetics: lignocaine (25 mg/g) and prilocaine (25 mg/g). The cream works by penetrating the skin, blocking the pain signals from reaching the nerves. This allows medical procedures to be carried out with minimal or no pain.
EMLA® is available as both a cream and a patch. The recommended dosage depends on the procedure and the area being treated. For most procedures:
Maximum doses for adults and children are provided in the package insert, and patients are advised not to exceed the recommended dosage.
Patients using EMLA® may experience certain side effects, which are generally mild and resolve quickly. These include:
EMLA® should not be used on open wounds (except leg ulcers), and it is contraindicated for use in premature babies. In addition, patients with methaemoglobinaemia, dermatitis, or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency should consult a doctor before using this product. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use the cream only after consulting with their healthcare provider.
EMLA® has been widely used and studied for its effectiveness in reducing pain for minor medical procedures. Clinical studies have shown that EMLA® significantly reduces pain when applied properly before procedures like vaccinations, venipuncture, and skin grafting. Results from real-world use indicate that EMLA® is particularly helpful for patients with a low pain threshold and for use in children undergoing painful procedures like blood sampling or IV insertion.
Patients using EMLA® should be cautious of potential drug interactions. EMLA® may interact with other local anesthetics, sulfonamide antibiotics, and antiarrhythmic medications like amiodarone. Patients are advised to inform their healthcare providers about any other medications they are taking to avoid complications.
To administer EMLA® effectively:
EMLA® should be stored at temperatures below 30°C for the cream and 25°C for the patch. It should not be frozen. Patients should ensure that the cream or patches are kept in their original packaging until use to maintain effectiveness. To prevent accidental ingestion or misuse, EMLA® should be kept out of reach of children.
Unused EMLA® products should be disposed of properly, as advised by a pharmacist, especially if the product has expired or is no longer needed.