What Is It?: This is a topical product that may contain one or more of the following anesthetics; benzocaine, lidocaine or tetracaine. It is mixed in a special base that helps the ingredients penetrate into the skin. Anesthetics cause a numbing of the skin where applied.

How To Use: The gel or cream is applied to an area of skin where your doctor is planning to do some procedure that may be uncomfortable or painful. These anesthetics can reduce your sensitivity to pain. It is common to apply a thin coat of the gel 30 to 60 minutes before the scheduled procedure. Apply to only the area that will be worked on. Covering a larger area will not offer any benefit. This gives the anesthetics time to penetrate and become effective. Pain relief will probably last beyond the time of the procedure. Wash your hands thoroughly after applying.

Sometimes your doctor may tell you to cover the area with plastic wrap (i.e. Saran) after applying the gel. This is usually the case when the procedure is on your arms or legs. Be careful to NOT apply more than needed and don’t apply the wrap too tightly.

Possible Side Effects: There are very few side effects when this compound is used correctly. The cream or gel base acts to push the anesthetics into the skin where they cause a numbing sensation. Side effects are rare when used according to the instructions. An overdose can cause drowsiness, blurred vision, shakiness, irregular heartbeat, seizures or convulsions, ringing in the ears, severe itching or burning.

Warning:  Do not apply too heavily and do not cover more than the area that will be worked on at your appointment. Contact your doctor if you experience any of the side effects mentioned above.

Storage: Keep this compound in the container it came in, tightly closed and out of the reach of children and pets. Store at room temperature away from excessive heat and moisture (NOT in the bathroom.)