What is a Lidocaine Patch and What are its Uses?

At Performance Pain and Sports Medicine we recommend the use of prescription pain relief patches to help manage your pain at home. A lidocaine patch is a prescription medication that is applied to the skin to reduce pain and discomfort. The prescription lidocaine patch is used to treat a variety of conditions, including the relief of muscle pain, nerve pain, and itching.

What Does a Lidocaine Patch Do?

A lidocaine patch is a prescription medication that is applied to the skin to reduce pain and discomfort. The lidocaine patch can provide relief from muscle pain, nerve pain, itching, joint pain, post-surgical pain, arthritis pain, shingles pain, cancer pain, and diabetic neuropathy. It can also be used to provide relief from itching associated with skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

How Does a Lidocaine Patch Work?

The lidocaine patch works by releasing a low dose of lidocaine into the skin, which is then absorbed into the bloodstream. The lidocaine blocks the nerve signals that cause pain, resulting in a decrease in pain symptoms. The lidocaine patch usually takes about 30 minutes to take effect, although this can vary depending on the individual.

What is a Lidocaine Patch Used For?

The most common lidocaine uses are to treat a variety of conditions, including:

• Muscle pain
• Nerve pain
• Itching
• Joint pain
• Post-surgical pain
• Arthritis pain
• Shingles pain
• Cancer pain
• Diabetic neuropathy

Another one of the common uses for lidocaine patches is to provide relief from itching associated with skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

How to Use a Lidocaine Patch

The lidocaine patch should be used as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. It is important to follow the instructions on the label carefully. Before applying the patch, make sure the area of skin is clean and dry. Then, peel off the backing of the patch and apply it securely to the skin. If the patch becomes loose, remove it and apply a new one. The patch should be worn for up to 8 hours, but it is important not to exceed the recommended time as this may increase the risk of side effects. After 8 hours, the patch should be removed and disposed of properly.

Does a Lidocaine Patch Work?

The lidocaine patch has been proven to be effective in providing relief from pain, itching, and other symptoms associated with various conditions. Studies have found that, when used as an add-on therapy, lidocaine patch 5% was effective in reducing ongoing pain by up to 50% in the 8 hours after application, and the effect was found to last for up to 7 days. You can see the results of this study by clicking here.

Are There Any Side Effects of the Lidocaine Patch?

The most common side effects of the lidocaine patch include skin irritation, redness, itching, and burning. If these side effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor. In rare cases, an allergic reaction to the lidocaine patch can occur. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience these symptoms.

Is a Lidocaine Patch a Controlled Substance?

No, the lidocaine patch is not considered a controlled substance. However, it is important to note that it is a prescription medication and should only be used as directed by your doctor.

Are There Any Drug Interactions with the Lidocaine Patch?

Are there lidocaine patch interactions? Yes, there may be and it is important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medications while using a lidocaine patch.

Is the lidocaine patch an anti inflammatory? No, it is important to note that the lidocaine patch is not an anti-inflammatory and should not be used to treat inflammation.

As a board certified pain doctor, I recommend the use of a lidocaine patch to help manage pain. If you have any questions about the lidocaine patch or its uses, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Author

Dr. Suzanne Manzi Dr. Suzanne Manzi is a board-certified physician specializing in interventional pain management, electrodiagnostic testing, and weight management. She co-founded Performance Pain and Sports Medicine and provides medical evaluations and treatment plans at its Houston and League City locations. Dr. Manzi is an active member of medical societies and has been recognized for her expertise. She aims to continue building her practice and incorporating it as a learning site for medical residents and fellows. In her free time, she enjoys exercise, travel, and spending time with her family.