Who can use lidocaine for mouth and throat
Most adults and young people aged 16 years and over can use lidocaine for mouth and throat. There are also lidocaine treatments that are suitable for children and babies.
Teething treatments are for babies from the age of 5 or 6 months, depending on the brand. Always check the packaging and instructions before giving lidocaine to a baby.
Lidocaine treatments can look very similar. Some are only suitable for people aged 16 years and over. This is because they contain choline salicylate (an ingredient related to aspirin). Check the packet or ask a pharmacist for advice.
Important
Do not give medicines containing choline salicylate to children under 16 years. It's linked to a rare condition called Reye's syndrome, which can be fatal.
Who may not be able to use lidocaine for mouth and throat
Lidocaine treatments are not suitable for some people. To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you or your child:
- have ever had an allergic reaction to lidocaine or any other medicine
- are very sensitive (hypersensitive) to any of the ingredients
Some lidocaine treatments for mouth and throat contain very small amounts of alcohol. If this is a problem for you, check with a pharmacist.