Lidocaine/Lidocaine Combinations Topical

What is lidocaine/lidocaine combinations topical?

Lidocaine/lidocaine combinations topical are local anesthetics that provide anesthesia (a numbing effect) to the skin in cats, dogs, and other animals. Combination products may contain other local anesthetics, antibiotics or antimicrobials, steroids, antihistamines, and/or cleansing agents.

Lidocaine/lidocaine combinations topical are local anesthetics that provide anesthesia (a numbing effect) to the skin in cats, dogs, and other animals. Combination products may contain other local anesthetics, antibiotics or antimicrobials, steroids, antihistamines, and/or cleansing agents. 

Its use may be off label (extra label) depending on the formulation, condition(s) being treated, and species. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How do I give my pet lidocaine/lidocaine combinations topical?

Lidocaine/lidocaine combinations topical comes in topical cream, gel, ointment, liquid solution, and spray forms. Combination products may be specially compounded.

• All forms are applied topically, directly to the skin. 
• Clean the affected area as directed by your veterinarian before applying the medication. 
• Wear gloves when applying and wash your hands after application. 
• Avoid contact with eyes.
• Do not allow pets to groom or lick application site for at least 30 minutes after applying this medication.
• Give this medication to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears that your pet is feeling better.

This medication will take effect quickly, within 1 hour, but outward signs may not be noticeable.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss an application, give it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled application, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects from lidocaine/lidocaine combinations topical?

Lidocaine/lidocaine combinations topical may cause the following side effects:

• mild irritation at site of application
• other side effects with combination products, depending on medications used

The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:

• an allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses, but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within a few hours, though effects may be prolonged in pets with kidney or liver disease or in combination products.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

This medication should NOT BE USED in animals who: 

• are allergic to any of the components

This medication should be USED WITH CAUTION in animals who:

• have a small body size
• need a large area treated
• have open wounds
• are taking antiarrhythmic drugs

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Certain medications should be USED WITH CAUTION when given with lidocaine/lidocaine combinations topical, including: 

• oral antiarrhythmic drugs (e.g., oral lidocaine)
• other topical anesthetics (e.g., prilocaine)

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian may schedule a follow-up visit after the course of medication is complete to ensure the condition has been cleared and/or do additional testing to ensure this is the right medication for the condition present. In this case, follow your veterinarian’s directions.
• At home, monitor for any abnormal changes. If these occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store lidocaine/lidocaine combinations topical?

• Store the medication in its original container, protected from light, at room temperature.
• Keep the cap tightly closed.
• If your veterinarian or pharmacist has made a special (compounded) formulation for your pet, follow the storage recommendations and expiration date for the product.
• Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Adverse effects should also be reported to the FDA or Health Canada.