How Topical Lidocaine works on Arthritis:

Lidocaine is a local anesthetic (numbing medication). It works by blocking nerve signals in your body. Topical lidocaine acts as an anesthetic which reduces the sensation of pain or makes the affected area numb. The American Pain Society reported that Lidoderm patch containing lidocaine results in at least 30% improvement in knee pain on those patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis. The Lidoderm patch used in the study was used once daily for 12 weeks.

Side Effects and Precautions of Topical Lidocaine:

Inform your doctor of any of these symptoms develop: stinging, burning, redness, tenderness, swelling, rash. Do not use this medication on areas with bacterial infection or on top of open wounds.

Forms, Dosage and Brand Names of Topical Lidocaine:

Lidoderm arthritis patch.

Adults: Topical lidocaine is formulated in patches at 5% concentration. The patch sticks to the affected area and replaced after a few hours.

Pregnant Women: Generally safe

Children: There is no available information comparing the use of topical lidocaine in children with use in other age groups.

References about Topical Lidocaine and Arthritis:

Evaluation of eutectic lidocaine/prilocaine cream (EMLA) for steroid joint injection in children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis: a double blind, randomized, placebo controlled trial. [2003.03]

Page last updated: May 02, 2008