Lidoderm Patch
What is a Lidoderm Patch?
A lidoderm patch is a medication that is used topically. Lidoderm patches are used to treat the pain associated with herpes zoster lesions, otherwise known as shingles. This kind of pain is called post herpetic neuralgia. Lidoderm patches are anesthetics and are used to stop the transmission of painful nerve impulses to the brain from the site. [1, 2]
Lidoderm Interactions
Let your physician know about any of the following:
- Pregnancy or breast feeding
- Medications, over the counter medications, dietary supplements and herbal medications
- Allergies
- Broken or inflamed skin at the site
- Liver, hear or kidney problems
- History of severe allergic reactions
- Poor health
- Use of another kind of anesthetic medicine [1]
Medications that Interfere with the Lidoderm Patch
- Beta blockers like propanolol
- Anti-arrhythmics like amiodarone, mexiletine or tocainide
- Local anesthetics like benzocaine
Not a total list of medications that may interfere with the lidoderm patch. Check with your doctor. [1]
How to Use the Lidoderm Patch?
Only use the lidoderm patch on clean dry skin. Not to apply the lidoderm patch on broken skin. Wash your hands before and after applying the patch. Remove the inner liner of the patch and apply the patch to the painful area. Cover the most painful part of the area. The lidoderm patch can be cut down smaller as needed. Keep discarded pieces away from pets and children. Take the patch off if it causes irritation or burning. You can wear the patch for up to twelve hours in a twenty four hour period. You can wear clothes over the patch. Do not reapply a new patch to the same area for twelve hours. If a dose is missed, you can apply the patch when you remember. Do not use the patch for longer than twelve hours. Do not re-use any patches. [1, 2]
Safety Information
- External use only
- Avoid contact with the eyes, nose and mouth / If it gets into the eyes rinse with cold water
- May cause drowsiness, blurry vision or dizziness (worse with alcohol use)
- Do not operate vehicles or heavy equipment until you know how your body will react to this medication
- Let other health care professionals know you are on this medication if asked
- The patch with numb the area is applied to
- Use the medication as prescribed
- Harmful if chewed or swallowed
- No bathing, swimming or showering while wearing the patch
- Do not apply heat to the patch
- Elderly people may be more sensitive to this medication
- Used cautiously in children
- Let a MRI technician know you are wearing this patch, if you go for a MRI scan as the patch can cause a serious burn
- The lidoderm patch can enter breast milk [1]
Side Effects
Let your doctor know about any side effects that are encountered. Common side effects of lidoderm patch are slight redness, irritation, blisters, burning, skin color changes and numbness to the site.
Severe side effects are severe allergic reactions (swelling, hives, breathing problems or chest tightness), pain, confusion, dizziness, fainting, heat beat changes, mood and mental changes, ringing in the ears, seizures, breathing changes, headaches, tremors, drowsiness, vision changes and vomiting. [1]
General Information
- Store at twenty five degrees celcius
- Keep away from heat, light and moisture
- Direct any questions to your doctor or pharmacist
- Do not share with other people [1]
Dosage
Available strengths: 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 2.5 %, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 0.5 mg, 5% with cleanser. [1]
Common Drugs
Common Drugs Checked when in Use with the Lidoderm Patch
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Reference List:
- Drugs.com, Available from: https://www.drugs.com/cdi/lidoderm-patch.html
- Wed MD, Available from: http://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-17549/lidoderm-topical/details
- RX Resource, Available from: http://www.rxresource.org/prescription-information/LIDODERM-Endo-Pharmaceuticals-Inc.html
- The Luxury Spot, Available from: http://www.theluxuryspot.com/lidoderm-patch-works/