LMX4 Topical Anaesthetic Cream 4% (30g) is a topical anaesthetic applied to the external skin before treatment to reduce pain. It also provides a positive, therapeutic experience that leads to a better appearance.

These are the 3 main benefits of LMX4.

• Quick results in as little as 30 minutes
• It is well tolerated and has low side effects
• You can also apply for up to five hours

The context of the box that you receive;

Pack sizes range from 5g to 30g. The packs include either an aluminum tube with an epoxyphenolic or a polyamide-imide internal lacquer. Polyamide-imide interior lacquer with a polyethylene cap.

Keep your temperature below 25°C

What are the various ingredients?

• Benzyl Alcohol
• Carbomers also available
• Cholesterol also
• Phospholipon80H (Hydrogenated Lecithin)
• Polysorbate 80 (Tween80)
• Propylene Glycol
• Trolamine
• Vitamin E Acetate is also available
• Finally, purified water

How should LMX4 managed?

Venipuncture and Venous Cannulation are two of the techniques.

Adults, as well as the elderly, can use it.

To cover an area of 2.5cm x2.5cm (6.25cm2) where venous cannulation (or venipuncture) will take place, apply 1g to 2.5g cream to the skin. Infants under 1 year old should only use 1 g or less of the cream.

One gram of cream equals 5cm of cream squeezed out of the 5g tube, or 3.5cm if taken from the 30g tube.

To prevent external disturbances, the cream can be covered with a covering. After 30 minutes, the desired effects of numbness or euphoria should be apparent.

Are there any precautions to be taken with LMX4 Cream?

Always refer to the label for the complete list of precautions that must be taken when using this cream.

LMX4 Cream should only be used externally. Avoid contact with the eyes. It can also cause severe irritation to the eyes. After applying to the skin, wash your eyes immediately and always wash your hands.

Skin irritation can be caused by propylene glycol. If symptoms persist, discontinue use of propylene glycol.

Avoid applying in large quantities to areas that are raw or blistered.

Increased use of LMX4 may increase blood levels. Although overdose is unlikely, symptoms of toxicity include blurred vision, dizziness, or drowsiness. You may also experience difficulty breathing, trembling or chest pains, as well irregular heartbeats.

Chances of toxicity are heightened when using LMX4 alongside other anaethetics.

A maximum of 2 dosages should only be given every 24 hours.

Can Lidocaine be used alongside other medicines?

Lidocaine should be used with caution in patients receiving Class I anti- arrhythmic drugs (such as tocainide and mexiletine) since the toxic effects are additive and generally synergistic.

Drugs that reduce the clearance of lidocaine (eg cimetidine or betablockers such as propranolol) may cause potentially toxic plasma concentrations when lidocaine is given in repeated high doses over a long period of time.

Can Lidocaine be given to pregnant or lactating women?

Lidocaine can cross the placental barrier and should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely required. It is also secreted during breastfeeding and should be given with precaution to breastfeeding mothers.

There was no indication of any mutagenic effects during studies.