Emla (Lidocaine + Prilocaine)
What is EMLA (Lidocaine + Prilocaine)?
Emla (Lidocaine + Prilocaine) is a topical anesthetic cream designed to numb the skin before various medical procedures. This powerful combination of lidocaine and prilocaine works by blocking nerve signals in the skin, providing effective local anesthesia. This cream is commonly used for minor surgical procedures, needle insertions such as blood draws and vaccinations, laser treatments, and tattoo applications and removals. The primary benefit of using Emla is its ability to significantly reduce pain and discomfort, making these procedures more tolerable for patients.
In addition to its numbing properties, the cream is favored for its fast-acting and long-lasting effects. The cream typically begins to work within 30 to 60 minutes of application, ensuring that the area is adequately anesthetized before the procedure begins. This reduces anxiety and improves the overall patient experience. Emla’s versatility and effectiveness make it a valuable tool in both medical and cosmetic settings, offering a reliable solution for pain management and enhancing patient comfort.
Where to Buy Emla (Lidocaine + Prilocaine) Cream Online
If you’re in need of a cream for effective numbing or pain relief, finding the best price can greatly affect your treatment expenses. EMLA, available in a 5g tube, is a trusted topical anesthetic for reducing pain during various procedures. To help you get the most value, here’s a price comparison from different online pharmacies:
| Pharmacy Name | Price per Tube |
|---|---|
| Canadian Pharmacy | $24.99 |
| HealthMart Pharmacy | $29.50 |
| Good Neighbor Pharmacy | $31.00 |
| Thrifty White Pharmacy | $32.75 |
| Kinney Drugs | $34.00 |
Canadian Pharmacy offers EMLA cream at $24.99 per 5g tube, making it the most affordable option among these choices. This price point is ideal for those looking to manage their costs while benefiting from effective numbing.
To make the most of your purchase, explore various online pharmacies and take advantage of any available discount codes or promotional offers. Many pharmacies provide special deals that can further reduce your expenses. By comparing prices and seeking out discounts, you can ensure you receive the best deal for your EMLA cream while achieving effective pain relief.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Emla used for?
Emla (Lidocaine + Prilocaine) cream is widely used for numbing the skin before various medical procedures. It is particularly effective for:
- Minor surgical procedures
- Needle insertions (e.g., blood draws, vaccinations)
- Laser treatments
- Tattoo applications and removals
- Skin grafts
By providing effective local anesthesia, the product helps minimize pain and discomfort during these procedures, making it a popular choice for both medical professionals and patients.
What does EMLA cream do?
EMLA cream numbs the skin by blocking nerve signals, significantly reducing pain and discomfort during various medical procedures. It is commonly used for needle insertions, minor surgeries, laser treatments, and tattoo applications. By providing effective local anesthesia, the cream helps patients undergo these procedures with minimal discomfort. Its dual-active ingredients, lidocaine and prilocaine, ensure thorough and long-lasting numbing effects, making it a preferred choice for both healthcare professionals and patients.
How long does it take for EMLA to take effect?
EMLA cream typically takes between 30 to 60 minutes to take effect. For optimal results, it’s crucial to apply the cream at least one hour before the procedure to ensure the area is adequately numbed. The effectiveness of the product depends on the thickness of the applied layer and the duration it is left on the skin. Proper application and timing are essential to achieving maximum numbing and minimizing pain during medical procedures.
Do you need a prescription for EMLA cream?
In many locations, you can buy EMLA cream over the counter without a prescription. However, the availability of the product may vary based on local regulations and pharmacy policies. It’s important to check with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider to confirm whether a prescription is required in your area. Even if it is available OTC, consulting with a healthcare professional before use ensures that this cream is suitable for your specific needs and helps you receive guidance on proper application.
What is the Generic Name of EMLA Cream?
The generic name of EMLA cream is a combination of lidocaine and prilocaine. This dual-component formulation provides effective numbing for various procedures. Lidocaine and prilocaine are the active ingredients that make this cream a popular choice for local anesthesia. By referring to the product by its generic components, lidocaine and prilocaine, you can better understand its composition and benefits for pain relief during medical and cosmetic treatments.
Is EMLA better than lidocaine?
EMLA cream, which combines lidocaine and prilocaine, often provides a more effective numbing experience than lidocaine alone. This dual-action formula enhances the depth and duration of anesthesia, making EMLA particularly suitable for procedures requiring prolonged or more intense numbing. While lidocaine is effective on its own, the addition of prilocaine increases its overall efficacy and is beneficial for deeper or larger areas of the skin.
Here’s a comparison to highlight the differences:
| Feature | EMLA Cream | Lidocaine Alone |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredients | Lidocaine + Prilocaine | Lidocaine |
| Numbing Depth | Deeper and longer-lasting | Shallow and shorter duration |
| Best For | Prolonged procedures, larger areas | Minor procedures, smaller areas |
| Application Areas | Suitable for various procedures | Often used for localized numbing |
Overall, EMLA cream’s combination of lidocaine and prilocaine makes it a superior choice for more extensive or invasive procedures where enhanced numbing is required.
How do you use EMLA cream for circumcision?
- Apply a thick layer of the cream to the genital area.
- Cover with an occlusive dressing to enhance absorption.
- Leave the cream on for at least 60 minutes before the procedure.
- Remove the dressing and cream just before the circumcision.
How deep does EMLA cream go?
EMLA cream provides effective numbing to a depth of approximately 5 millimeters. This makes it particularly suitable for superficial procedures where shallow local anesthesia is required. The cream’s ability to penetrate this depth ensures that it can effectively numb the skin for minor surgeries, needle insertions, and cosmetic procedures. For deeper or more invasive procedures, additional methods of anesthesia may be needed, but the product is highly effective for most superficial treatments.
Is EMLA a good numbing cream?
Yes, this cream is widely regarded as a highly effective numbing cream due to its combination of lidocaine and prilocaine. Studies show that EMLA provides effective pain relief in approximately 80-90% of patients, making it a reliable choice for various medical and cosmetic procedures. Its dual-action formula ensures thorough and long-lasting anesthesia, which is crucial for procedures such as needle insertions, minor surgeries, and laser treatments. The cream’s ability to offer significant pain reduction for up to 2 hours has earned it high praise from both healthcare professionals and patients, making this product a top choice for effective and versatile numbing.
How long does EMLA cream take to work?
EMLA cream generally begins to take effect within 30 to 60 minutes after application. For optimal results, it is recommended to apply the cream at least one hour before the procedure. This allows sufficient time for the cream to fully penetrate and numb the skin. The duration of its numbing effect can last up to 2 hours, depending on the thickness of the layer applied and the specific area treated. Ensuring proper application and timing helps maximize the effectiveness of the cream, providing reliable pain relief during various medical and cosmetic procedures.
How to use EMLA cream for tattoo?
- Apply a thick layer of the cream to the tattoo area.
- Cover with plastic wrap or an occlusive dressing.
- Leave on for at least 60 minutes before starting the tattoo.
- Wipe off the cream just before the tattooing begins.
How much lidocaine is in EMLA cream?
EMLA cream contains 2.5% lidocaine, which is combined with 2.5% prilocaine to enhance its numbing effect. This balanced formulation ensures effective local anesthesia for a range of medical and cosmetic procedures. The combination of these two anesthetics provides deeper and more prolonged numbing compared to lidocaine alone. This makes the cream particularly effective for reducing pain during needle insertions, minor surgeries, and other procedures requiring local anesthesia.
What are EMLA cream ingredients?
The primary active ingredients in EMLA cream are lidocaine (2.5%) and prilocaine (2.5%). These two anesthetics work together to provide effective numbing of the skin. In addition to these active ingredients, the cream includes several inactive components that assist with absorption, stability, and overall effectiveness. These additional ingredients ensure the cream applies smoothly and remains effective during use, contributing to its reliable performance in pain management.
How to use EMLA cream for ear piercing?
- Apply a generous amount of the cream to the earlobes.
- Cover with a small piece of plastic wrap or occlusive dressing.
- Wait for about 60 minutes before the piercing.
- Remove the covering and cream just before piercing.
Can I buy Emla cream online?
Yes, you can buy Emla (Lidocaine + Prilocaine) online. Many trusted online pharmacies provide this medication, allowing you to get it conveniently from home. To ensure you receive an authentic product, select reputable pharmacies with positive customer feedback and proper accreditation. Additionally, comparing prices across various platforms can help you find the best deal. Look out for discounts and promotional offers to further enhance your savings.
Can I buy Emla over-the-counter (OTC)?
Yes, Emla (Lidocaine + Prilocaine) can be purchased over-the-counter (OTC) at some pharmacies. This topical anesthetic is available both in-store and online without needing a prescription. However, availability and regulations may differ based on your location, so it’s essential to verify the specific requirements in your area. If you are thinking about using this cream for numbing or pain relief, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider to confirm it’s the right choice for your needs.
Where can I find more info?
For more information on Emla (Lidocaine + Prilocaine), you can find details here. If you have specific questions, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Disclaimer: The content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional with any questions regarding your health or medical condition. This information is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk. Always verify details and consult with your healthcare provider before making any healthcare decisions.
Written by: Thersa C. Gardner
Medically Reviewed by: Walter Chan, MD, MPH
Last Update: July 26, 2024