Lidocaine skin cream is generally very safe. Many people do not have any side effects at all, or only mild ones.
Common side effects
These common side effects of lidocaine skin cream may happen in up to 1 in 10 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:
Itching or tingling where you used the cream
If this becomes too uncomfortable, take the cream off. Tell the doctor or nurse that you took the cream off early, as your skin may not be numb enough to have the procedure. If possible, contact them as soon as possible for advice.
Paler than usual skin, redness or mild swelling where you used the cream
Paler skin or redness may be less noticeable on brown or black skin. This should go away once you take the cream off. If it is still bothering you 24 hours later, contact your doctor.
Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if the advice on how to cope does not help and a side effect is still bothering you or does not go away.
Serious allergic reaction
It's extremely rare to have an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to lidocaine skin cream.
Immediate action required: Call 999 now if:
- your lips, mouth, throat or tongue suddenly become swollen
- you're breathing very fast or struggling to breathe (you may become very wheezy or feel like you're choking or gasping for air)
- your throat feels tight or you're struggling to swallow
- your skin, tongue or lips turn blue, grey or pale (if you have black or brown skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of your hands or soles of your feet)
- you suddenly become very confused, drowsy or dizzy
- someone faints and cannot be woken up
- a child is limp, floppy or not responding like they normally do (their head may fall to the side, backwards or forwards, or they may find it difficult to lift their head or focus on your face)
You or the person who's unwell may also have a rash that's swollen, raised, itchy, blistered or peeling.
These can be signs of a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.
Do not drive yourself to A&E.
The person you speak to at 999 will give you advice about what to do.
Other side effects
These are not all the side effects of lidocaine skin cream. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicine packet.
Reporting side effects
You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.
Visit the Yellow Card website for more information about reporting side effects.