Lidocaine/Prilocaine Cream

What is Lidocaine/Prilocaine Cream?

Lidocaine/Prilocaine cream is a local anaesthetic.  This means that you apply it to the skin and it will numb the area. This makes it an effective treatment for premature ejaculation. The reduced sensation into the skin of the penis, should help to reduce sexual stimulation and therefore delay ejaculation. 

How does Lidocaine/Prilocaine Cream work?

Lidocaine/Prilocaine (EMLA) cream works by numbing the local area to which it is applied, by affecting the flow of sodium into the neurons. It works within 5-10 minutes of application and lasts 15-20 minutes.

What is Lidocaine/Prilocaine Cream used for?

Lidocaine/Prilocaine Cream can be used to treat premature ejaculation. It is also used to numb the skin before dermatologic procedures.

Active ingredients

Lidocaine/Prilocaine Cream (EMLA) contains the following active ingredients:

• 25mg lidocaine
• 25mg prilocaine

Both lidocaine and prilocaine are anaesthetics that help to numb the skin. 

Inactive ingredients

Lidocaine/Prilocaine Cream also contains the following inactive ingredients: polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters (as emulsifiers), carboxypolymethylene (as a thickening agent), sodium hydroxide to adjust to a pH approximating 9, and purified water to 1 gram. 

Please note that the inactive ingredients may vary between manufacturers. The ingredients listed above are found in the EMLA brand of Lidocaine/Prilocaine Cream.

Dosage

A small amount of EMLA cream may be applied to the penis 5 minutes before intercourse. For external use only. Do not apply to open wounds, near the eyes or ears. Squeeze a narrow strip from the tube. A small amount will be systemically absorbed, but in studies this was not enough to be significant.

How should I use Lidocaine/Prilocaine Cream?

Use as directed by your doctor. For premature ejaculation, apply a small amount of cream to the head of the penis at least 5 minutes (but ideally less than 20 minutes) before intercourse. Wipe off any excess cream to avoid numbing or causing irritation to your partner. Lidocaine/Prilocaine cream can weaken latex condoms, increasing the risk of tearing, therefore you should use polyurethane condoms instead.

Side effects

The most common side effects include:

• Local skin pallor
• Redness to the application site
• Mild burning to the application site

Rare side effects include:

• Change in temperature sensation
• Swelling or itching of the application site

Rarely, people may have an allergic reaction ranging from itching, stinging, blistering and anaphylaxis. This has been rarely reported.   

Precautions

Lidocaine/Prilocaine cream should not be applied to open wounds, near the eyes, or in the ears. Allergic reactions may occur.

Drug Interactions

There is a  low risk of drug interactions when a small amount of lidocaine is applied topically. However, caution should be used if you are taking anti-arrhythmic drugs (such as tocainide or mexiletine).

Contraindications

Allergy to local anesthetics (such as procaine, tetracaine, benzocaine, lidocaine) or any other ingredients in EMLA.

Is Lidocaine/Prilocaine Cream safe in pregnancy?

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Lidocaine/Prilocaine Cream should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor.

Is Lidocaine/Prilocaine Cream safe during breastfeeding?

Avoid using  Lidocaine/Prilocaine Cream while breastfeeding, as a small amount may be present in breast-milk.