Lidocaine
Is It Right for You?
A complete guide to Lidocaine — what it treats, how it works, dosages, side effects, and when a clinician may prescribe it following an online consultation.
What Is Lidocaine?
Lidocaine is a local anaesthetic that numbs a specific area of the body. In topical and suppository forms it is used to relieve pain, itching, and discomfort of the skin and the anorectal area, such as with haemorrhoids.
It is found in creams, ointments, gels, sprays, patches, and suppositories, often combined with other ingredients such as zinc oxide for a soothing, protective effect. It is available generically and in many branded products.
Stronger lidocaine preparations are prescription-only medications in the UK, while some lower-strength products are available from pharmacies. A licensed clinician can review your symptoms through a telehealth consultation and prescribe where appropriate.
What Conditions Is Lidocaine Used For?
Topical lidocaine is used to relieve:
numbing pain and easing itching and discomfort around the back passage, often in combination products.
providing local pain relief for sore, irritated anorectal skin.
numbing small areas of painful or itchy skin.
providing surface numbing before some minor skin procedures.
Applying too much lidocaine, or using it on large or broken areas, can lead to too much being absorbed and cause serious effects. Use only the amount and frequency directed, and never exceed it.
How Does Lidocaine Work?
Lidocaine is a local anaesthetic. It works by blocking sodium channels in nerve endings, which stops the nerves in the treated area from sending pain and itch signals to the brain.
Because it acts only where it is applied, it numbs that specific area without affecting sensation elsewhere. The numbing effect begins within minutes and lasts for a limited time before wearing off.
In combination products, soothing or protective ingredients such as zinc oxide may be added to calm and shield irritated skin while the lidocaine relieves pain and itch.
Dosages & Administration
The correct dose depends on the type and severity of infection, age, weight, and kidney function. Always follow your clinician's instructions. The table below is for general reference only.
Administration Tips
Use the smallest effective amount for the shortest time, and do not apply more often than directed.
For anorectal products, clean and dry the area first; wash your hands before and after use and follow the specific product instructions.
Side Effects of Lidocaine
Most side effects are local and mild. Serious effects are rare and usually relate to too much being absorbed.
- Temporary numbness in the treated area
- Mild stinging, burning, or irritation on application
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin sensitivity at the site
- Signs of too much absorption - dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, ringing in the ears
- Numbness or tingling around the mouth
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Severe allergic reaction - swelling, difficulty breathing
- Blue-tinged skin or lips
Because lidocaine removes sensation, it can mask pain that is a warning sign of another problem. If symptoms persist, worsen, or you notice bleeding, do not simply keep numbing the area - seek medical advice.
Drug Interactions
Always disclose all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements to your clinician or pharmacist before starting lidocaine.
Using lidocaine with other anaesthetic products adds to the total amount absorbed and the risk of side effects.
If significant lidocaine is absorbed, it can add to the effects of some antiarrhythmic drugs. Tell your clinician about your medicines.
Some drugs can add to the small risk of a blood disorder called methaemoglobinaemia with local anaesthetics.
Other products on the same area can alter absorption or cause irritation; space them as advised.
Important Warnings
Lidocaine is absorbed more through broken, inflamed, or large areas of skin, increasing the risk of side effects. Use only as directed and avoid applying to extensively damaged skin.
Children are more sensitive to absorbed lidocaine. Use in children only as specifically directed and with appropriate, lower-strength products.
Topical lidocaine relieves symptoms but does not treat the underlying cause. If pain, itching, or bleeding continues, seek medical review rather than relying on continued use.
Topical lidocaine is generally low risk when used as directed, but use only if needed. Tell your clinician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding so appropriate advice can be given.
Speak to a Clinician About Treatment
Getting advice no longer means sitting in a waiting room. Through The GP Service, you can consult with a licensed clinician in minutes — from home, on your lunch break, or wherever works for you. If treatment is clinically appropriate, your clinician can issue a prescription during the consultation. A consultation does not guarantee a prescription.
The treatment you need, when you need it.
Lidocaine FAQs
Yes. A licensed clinician can review your symptoms through a telehealth consultation and prescribe a suitable lidocaine preparation where appropriate; some lower-strength products are also available from pharmacies.
Topical lidocaine usually begins to numb the area within a few minutes, with the effect lasting for a limited time before gradually wearing off.
Yes. Lidocaine is commonly used, often in combination products, to relieve the pain and itching of haemorrhoids. Follow the product instructions and seek review if bleeding occurs.
No. Using more than directed, or on large or broken areas, can lead to too much being absorbed and cause serious effects. Always stick to the recommended amount.
Topical lidocaine used as directed is unlikely to interact significantly with alcohol, but if you notice dizziness or drowsiness, avoid alcohol and seek advice.
Lidocaine eases symptoms but does not treat the cause. If pain, itching, or bleeding persists or worsens, see a clinician for proper assessment.