Emla Cream With Dressings

About Emla Cream With Dressings

Emla Cream With Dressings contains two active ingredients, lidocaine and prilocaine, which are local anaesthetics. This topical numbing cream works by temporarily blocking pain signals in the skin’s nerve endings. It is widely used to numb the skin before medical procedures involving needles, such as blood tests, vaccinations, or the insertion of an IV cannula, as well as minor skin operations. Emla Cream With Dressings is suitable for adults, adolescents, and children. It is available in various pack sizes to suit different treatment needs:

• Emla Cream – 5g tube with 2 dressings
• Emla Cream – 5 x 5g tubes with 12 dressings (Multipack)

What Is Emla Cream With Dressings Used For?

Emla Cream is used to provide “dermal anaesthesia,” which means it numbs the surface of the skin. It is primarily used to prevent pain during needle insertions (like injections or blood samples) and minor surgical procedures such as the removal of warts or mollusca. In adults, it can also be used under medical supervision for cleansing leg ulcers.

Who Is Emla Cream Suitable For?

Emla is suitable for adults and children, including newborn infants. However, specific dosing and application limits apply to different age groups. Do not use Emla Cream if you:

• Are allergic to lidocaine, prilocaine, or any other ingredients listed
• Are allergic to other local anaesthetics of the “amide” type

Speak to a healthcare professional before use if you:

• Have a rare blood disorder called G6PD deficiency
• Have a problem with blood pigment levels called methaemoglobinaemia
• Have atopic dermatitis (eczema); a shorter application time (15–30 mins) may be required
• Are taking medications for heart rhythm (anti-arrhythmics)

How to Use Emla Cream With Dressings

1. Squeeze a thick layer of cream onto the area of skin to be numbed.
2. Do not rub the cream in; it must remain as a thick layer.
3. Peel the centre flap from the dressing and apply it over the cream.
4. Remove the paper frame and press the edges of the dressing down firmly to prevent leaking.
5. Write the time of application on the dressing. Leave for at least 60 minutes.
6. Just before the procedure, remove the dressing and wipe off the excess cream.

Do not apply to broken skin, cuts, rashes, or near the eyes, ears, or mouth.

Possible Side Effects of Emla Cream

Common side effects at the application site:

• Transient paleness (skin turning white)
• Redness or slight swelling
• Initial mild burning, itching, or warmth

Rare side effects:

• Allergic reactions (rash or swelling)
• Methaemoglobinaemia (blue-grey skin due to blood oxygen levels)
• Small red dots (purpura) at the site, especially in children with eczema

Warnings and Precautions

• Do not exceed the maximum dose or application time for the user’s age.
• Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, rinse immediately with water.
• Should not be used on the genitals of children.
• Consult a doctor before using on newborn infants under 3 months.

Storage Instructions

• Store below 30°C.
• Do not freeze.
• Keep the tube tightly closed.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.