Uses
This medication is used on the skin to stop itching and pain from certain skin conditions (such as scrapes, minor burns, eczema, insect bites) and to treat minor discomfort and itching caused by hemorrhoids and certain other problems of the genital/anal area (such as anal fissures, itching around the vagina/rectum). Some forms of this medication are also used to decrease discomfort or pain during certain medical procedures/exams (such as sigmoidoscopy, cystoscopy). Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that works by causing temporary numbness/loss of feeling in the skin and mucous membranes.
How to use Aspercreme (Lidocaine) 4 % Topical
If you are using the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read and follow all directions on the product package before using this medication. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, use it as directed.
Before use on the skin, clean and dry the affected area as directed. Apply a thin layer of medication to the affected area of skin, usually 2 to 3 times a day or as directed.
If you are using the spray, shake the canister well before using. While holding the canister 3-5 inches (8-13 centimeters) from the affected area, spray until wet. If the affected area is on the face, spray the medication onto your hand and apply to the face. Do not spray near your eyes, nose, or mouth.
If you are using the foam, shake the canister well before using. Spray the foam onto your hand and apply to the affected area.
Do not use on large areas of the body, cover the area with waterproof bandages or plastic, or apply heat unless directed to do so by your doctor. These may increase the risk of serious side effects.
Wash hands immediately after use unless you are treating an area on the hands. Avoid getting the product in eyes, nose, or ears. If the medication gets in these areas, rinse the area immediately with clean water.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not use more of this product, use it more often, or keep using it longer than directed. If there is an infection or sore in the area to be treated, do not use this medication without consulting your doctor first.
If your condition lasts or gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.
Side Effects
Temporary redness, stinging, and a little bit of swelling may occur at the application site. If these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor right away.
If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor 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.
Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: slow/shallow breathing, seizures, pale/bluish/gray skin, unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: new/worsening rash, new or worsening 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 any 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 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using lidocaine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other amide type anesthetics (such as bupivacaine, prilocaine); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: broken skin/infection in the area where lidocaine is to be used, heart disease, liver disease, a certain blood disorder (methemoglobinemia).
If you are going to have an MRI test, tell testing personnel that you are using this product. Some brands of this medication may contain metals that can cause serious burns during an MRI and should not be used before MRI imaging. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for questions about your particular brand.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This medication passes into breast milk, but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Overdose
This medicine may be harmful if inhaled or swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669. Symptoms of overdose may include: drowsiness, irregular heartbeat, seizures.
Keep all regular medical and lab appointments.
If you are using this product on a regular schedule and miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Store at room temperature. Do not freeze. Do not store the gel or the foam or spray canisters near high heat, and do not store or use it near open flame. Because the foam or spray canisters are under pressure, do not puncture or burn the container. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Images
Aspercreme (lidocaine HCl) 4 % topical
Color: Shape: Imprint:This medicine is a cream
Aspercreme (lidocaine HCl) 4 % topical liquid roll-on
Color: whiteShape: Imprint:This medicine is a cream
Aspercreme (lidocaine HCl) 4 % topical
Color: whiteShape: Imprint:This medicine is a cream
Aspercreme (lidocaine HCl) 4 % topical liquid roll-on
Color: whiteShape: Imprint:This medicine is a cream
Aspercreme (lidocaine HCl) 4 % topical
Color: whiteShape: Imprint:This medicine is a cream
Aspercreme (lidocaine HCl) 4 % topical
Color: whiteShape: Imprint:This medicine is a cream
Aspercreme (lidocaine HCl) 4 % topical liquid roll-on
Color: whiteShape: Imprint:This medicine is a cream
Aspercreme (lidocaine HCl) 4 % topical
Color: whiteShape: Imprint:This medicine is a cream
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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.