Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This cream contains two medicines, called 'lidocaine' and 'prilocaine'. This cream numbs the skin before procedures and reduces pain during the procedure.

Your doctor or nurse will apply the cream to the skin, and may place a protective cover over it. Sometimes, parents apply this medicine to their child at home. This lets it start working before the medical appointment. If you are applying this medicine at home, you should apply it exactly as the doctor tells you to. Also, you should read the 'Instructions for Use'. If you still have any questions, your doctor or pharmacist can help.

The amount of time that the cream needs to be on the skin depends on the planned procedure. Your doctor will decide how long to use the cream. It is important not to leave it on for longer than instructed.

This cream should only be used on skin that is intact. Be careful to never apply the cream near the eyes or to open skin, such as scrapes or wounds. Parents will need to watch young children closely, to make sure they do not accidentally get the cream or the cover in their eyes or mouth. 

Most people tolerate this medicine very well. If side effects occur, they will likely happen at the application site. If you notice redness, swelling, or burning, you should wipe the cream off and call the doctor.

As with any medicine, rare but serious side effects could occur. With this cream, symptoms include dizziness and excessive sleepiness. It could also cause the face or lips to turn dusky or blue. If you notice any of these effects, you should remove the cream and contact the doctor at once.

For best results with this cream, use it exactly as directed.