lidocaine patch - topical, Lidoderm
GENERIC NAME: LIDOCAINE PATCH - TOPICAL (LIE-doh-cane)
BRAND NAME(S): Lidoderm
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects |
Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes |
Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to relieve nerve pain after shingles (infection with the herpes zoster virus). This type of pain is called post-herpetic neuralgia. Lidocaine helps to reduce sharp/burning/aching pain as well as discomfort caused by skin areas that are overly sensitive to touch. Lidocaine belongs to a class of drugs known as local anesthetics. It works by causing a temporary loss of feeling in the area where you apply the patch.
HOW TO USE: This product should only be applied to healthy, normal skin. Do not apply to skin that is broken or irritated. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.Remove the protective liner and apply the patch to the skin area that is most painful. Apply the prescribed number of patches, usually only once a day for up to 12 hours or as directed by your doctor. Do not apply more than 3 patches once a day or leave any patch on for longer than 12 hours in any 24-hour period. If a smaller patch is needed, it may be cut with scissors before the liner is removed.Wash your hands well after each application. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes or mucous membranes (e.g., nose, mouth). If contact with the eyes accidentally occurs, wash your eyes immediately with water and protect them until normal feeling returns.Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.Used patches still contain some medication. However, do not reuse them. Fold the used patch with the sticky sides together and discard it out of the reach of children and pets to prevent accidental swallowing or application.
SIDE EFFECTS: Redness, swelling, blisters, or changes in skin color at the site of application may occur. These effects usually disappear within a few minutes or hours. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.If irritation or a burning feeling occurs, remove the patch(es) and do not reapply until the irritation is gone.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: blurred vision, mental/mood changes (e.g., nervousness, confusion), drowsiness, dizziness, unusually slow heartbeat.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
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.
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