How does lidocaine work?
Lidocaine is a local anaesthetic, which numbs the area where you've used it.
It works by stopping nerves from sending pain signals to your brain.
Using lidocaine skin cream before a procedure will ease any pain at the site of the procedure, such as pain from a needle being used to take blood.
How long does it take to work?
Lidocaine cream works quite quickly.
Most people will start to feel a numbing effect within 30 to 60 minutes.
Are there other anaesthetic creams to buy at pharmacies?
There are a number of creams for numbing the skin before procedures. They work in the same way as lidocaine and are likely to have a similar effect.
Ask a pharmacist for advice if you're not sure which cream to use.
Will it affect my contraception?
Lidocaine skin cream does not affect any type of contraception, including the combined pill, progestogen-only pill or emergency contraception.
Can I drive or ride a bike?
Yes. Using lidocaine skin cream will not affect your ability to drive or ride a bike.
Can I drink alcohol while using lidocaine skin cream?
Alcohol is generally not recommended before any medical procedure.
However, drinking alcohol is unlikely to have any effect on how the cream works.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
No, using lidocaine cream does not affect what you can eat or drink.
However, if you're having a minor procedure, follow any instructions from your doctor or nurse about eating and drinking beforehand.