How to Use Lidoderm

Lidoderm is a prescription local anesthetic worn as a skin patch to ease nerve pain. Lidoderm temporarily numbs feeling in the sensitive skin to relieve burning and aching. The medication is applied directly to the affected skin with an adhesive patch. As with any medication, you should talk to a doctor about the pain relief benefits and potential side effects of Lidoderm before using the product. Side effects may include burning, swelling and blistering. Severe allergic reactions are rare, but may include hives, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and irregular heartbeat.
The patch slowly releases the anesthetic lidocaine.

Things You'll Need

• Lidoderm patches

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Instructions

• 1

  Follow the doctor's directions when using Lipoderm patches. This usually means no more than 3 patches should be worn at a time for no more than 12 hours per day.

• 2

  Peel off the backing on the patch and gently place on the affected area of skin. For smaller areas, cut a patch with scissors to conserve your supply of Lidoderm.

• 3

  Wash hands thoroughly after applying a Lidoderm patch.

• 4

  Talk to your doctor if the pain gets worse or does not improve.