EMLA

EMLA cream

EMLA is a brand name for a topical anesthetic cream that contains two local anesthetic medications: lidocaine and prilocaine. It works by numbing a small area of skin, making it less sensitive to pain. EMLA is typically applied to the skin 30 to 60 minutes before a procedure, such as:

  • Injections (including blood tests)
  • Minor skin surgery (such as wart removal or mole removal)
  • Laser treatment

EMLA is available by prescription only and comes in a tube or disc form.

Here are some important things to know about EMLA:

  • It should not be applied to broken or irritated skin.
  • It may cause some side effects, such as redness, itching, or burning at the application site.
  • It is important to tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking before using EMLA, as it can interact with some other drugs.

EMLA is a safe and effective medication when used as directed. It can help to reduce pain during a variety of medical procedures.