Lidocaine 5% Plaster

What is Lidocaine 5% Plaster for?

Lidocaine in the form of plaster, is used to relieve nerve pain caused by surgery, infection (such as shingles) or nerve injury. It relieves pain by stopping the nerves from sending pain signals.

How should I take or use Lidocaine 5% Plaster?

• Do not stop using your medication without checking with your healthcare professional
• Apply the plaster to the painful area only. You may wear the plaster for up to 12 hours continuously per day. After removing the plaster, wait at least another 12 hours before applying another plaster if needed.
• Do not use more than 3 plasters at the same time. Follow the instructions on the medication label to know the number of plasters needed for effective treatment
• Plaster may be cut into smaller sizes before removing the release liner
• Plaster must be applied to the skin immediately after it is taken out of the sachet and the release liner is removed from the gel surface
• The plaster must be applied to unbroken, dry, non-irritated skin (after healing of the shingles)
• Hairs in the affected area must be cut off with a pair of scissors, not shaved
• Avoid exposing application site to external heat sources (e.g. heating pad, electric blanket) as this may increase the medication levels
• The plaster must not be applied to inflamed or injured skin such as active shingle areas, red and itchy skin or on open wounds
• The plaster should not be applied to mucous membranes such as the mouth and eye
• Wash your hands after handling the patch

What should I do if I forget to take or use Lidocaine 5% Plaster?

If you forget to apply the medication, apply it as soon as you remember. Then apply your next dose at the usual time. Do not apply two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What precautions should I take when taking or using Lidocaine 5% Plaster?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
• You are taking any other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.
• You have a medical condition such as heart, kidney, , lung or liver disease, atopic dermatitis (red and itchy skin condition), Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, methemoglobinemia (blood disorder)

What are some common side effects of Lidocaine 5% Plaster?

• Mild and temporary irritation at the application site (for example redness, itching)
  • Remove immediately if burning sensation or irritation occurs

What are some rare but serious side effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately

Rare side effects that require immediate medical attention:

• Blurred vision
• Confusion
• Severe dizziness and drowsiness
• Respiratory Depression (difficulty breathing)
• Seizures
• Tremor
• Bradycardia (Low Heart Rate)
• Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure)
• Methemoglobinemia (signs and symptoms such as cyanosis {pale, gray or blue skin}, headache, fatigue, shortness of breath and tachycardia {fast heart rate})

How should I store Lidocaine 5% Plaster?

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep this medication away from children.

How do I throw away Lidocaine 5% Plaster safely?

Used plasters still contain active substances and they should be folded into half, with the sticky side inwards so that the sticky layer is not exposed. Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing it into the rubbish chute or bin.