Lidoderm (Generic)

This product is used to help reduce itching and pain from certain skin conditions (such as scrapes, minor skin irritations, insect bites). It may also be used to help relieve nerve pain after shingles (infection with herpes zoster virus). Lidocaine belongs to a class of drugs known as local anesthetics. It works by causing a temporary loss of feeling in the area where you apply the patch.

If you are using the over-the-counter product to self-treat, read and follow all directions on the product package before using this medication. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, use it as directed.

This product should only be applied to normal intact skin. Do not apply to skin that is broken or irritated. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Remove the protective liner and apply the patch to the skin area that is most painful. Apply the prescribed number of patches, usually only once a day for up to 12 hours or as directed by your doctor. Do not apply more than 3 patches once a day or leave any patch on for longer than 12 hours in any 24-hour period. If a smaller patch is needed, it may be cut with scissors before the liner is removed. Avoid getting the patch wet since it may not stick to the skin.

Wash your hands well after each application. Avoid getting this medication in your eyes or mucous membranes (e.g., nose, mouth). If contact with the eyes accidentally occurs, wash your eyes right away with water and protect them until normal feeling returns.

If your condition does not get better, or if it gets worse, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Used patches still contain some medication. However, do not reuse them. Fold the used patch with the sticky sides together and discard it out of the reach of children and pets to prevent accidental swallowing or application.

Redness, swelling, blisters, or changes in skin color at the site of application may occur. These effects usually disappear within a few minutes or hours. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If irritation or a burning feeling occurs, remove the patch(es) and do not reapply until the irritation is gone.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: blurred vision, mental/mood changes (e.g., nervousness, confusion), drowsiness, dizziness, unusually slow heartbeat.

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: pale/bluish/gray skin, unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, fast heartbeat.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using lidocaine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other local anesthetics; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, a certain blood disorder (methemoglobinemia).

While wearing your patch, avoid exposing it to direct heat sources such as heating pads, electric blankets, heat lamps, saunas, hot tubs, heated waterbeds, or prolonged direct sunlight. Heat may cause more drug to be released into your body, increasing the chance of side effects.

If you are going to have an MRI test, tell testing personnel that you are using this patch. Some patches may contain metals that can cause serious burns during an MRI. Ask your doctor whether you will need to remove your patch before the test and apply a new patch afterward, and how to do so properly.

This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This medication passes into breast milk. While there have been no reports of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep the patch sealed in its protective envelope until ready to use. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed (See How to Use section).

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

This medication patch may be harmful if chewed or swallowed. If someone has overdosed, remove the patch if possible. For serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness, seizures, slowed breathing, slow/fast/irregular heartbeat.

If you are using this product on a regular schedule and miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Keep all regular medical and lab appointments.