Drug Information
What is Emla Cream used for?
This medicine is used for pain relief (topical analgesia) of normal intact skin. It should not be used on mucous membranes or open wounds.
When should Emla Cream not be taken?
Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to any ingredient in this medicine or to similar medications if you have broken or irritated skin
What precautions should I follow when taking Emla Cream?
Before using this medicine, tell your health care provider about any of the following: if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription medicine or dietary supplements if you have the blood disorder methemogloblinemia if you have severe liver disease if you have any other medical condition if you are taking any of the following medications: sulfonamides, benzocaine, chloroquine, acetaminophen, nitrofurantoin, nitroprusside, pamaquine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primaquine, or quinine
What special warning(s) should I be aware of when taking Emla Cream?
Do not apply this medicine to skin surfaces that have open wounds due to trauma. Apply this medicine with caution to areas of skin that have dermatitis, absorption of this medicine might be increased in these areas. Do not apply this medicine to or areas around eyes as it causes corneal irritation.
What are the side effects of Emla Cream?
Most severe: Allergic reaction (hives, rash, breathing problems, shock); convulsions; difficulty breathing; heart problems.
Most common: Pale skin; redness or swelling at the application site; abnormal skin sensations; itching; excitation; depression.
Other: Darkening of the skin; rash; lightheadedness; nervousness; fear; confusion; dizziness; drowsiness; ringing in the ears; blurred or double vision; vomiting; feeling warm, cold, or numb; tremors; exaggerated sense of well-being.
How should I take Emla Cream?
How much medicine you use and how often it is used depends on many factors, including the condition being treated, your age and weight. If you have any questions about the amount and/or frequency of the medicine you are using, talk with your health care provider. Avoid using this medicine near the eyes. Severe irritation can occur. If contact with the eyes occurs, wash out the eye with water or saline at once and protect it until sensation returns. Apply a thick layer of cream to the affected skin and cover with a sterile occlusive dressing unless otherwise directed by your health care provider. This medicine may block all sensations of the treated skin. Do not scratch, rub, or expose the treated area to extreme hot or cold temperatures until complete sensation has returned. This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Use caution while driving or performing other tasks requiring alertness, coordination, or physical dexterity. Do not take any over-the-counter or prescription medications or dietary supplements without talking with your health care provider. Patients with other medical conditions should talk with their health care provider before taking this medicine. Do not use more medicine than prescribed unless advised to do so by your health care provider.
How should Emla Cream be stored?
Store at controlled room temperature (between 59 and 86 degrees F).
General Information:
If you have any questions about your medicine, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider. This medicine is only to be used by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not give it to others. This information is advisory only. It does not contain all information about this medicine. If you have any questions about your medicine, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
