From the Research
Lidocaine typically takes around 25-30 minutes to begin numbing the skin, with optimal effects observed between 35-40 minutes after application. This is based on the most recent and highest quality study available, which investigated the onset time of a topical 4% lidocaine gel with a unique drug delivery system 1. The study found that significant anesthetic effect was attained without occlusion in approximately 25-30 minutes, with optimal effects observed between 35-40 minutes after application.
Key Findings
- The onset time of lidocaine can vary depending on the concentration and formulation of the product
- A topical 4% lidocaine gel with a unique drug delivery system has been shown to produce significant anesthesia without occlusion in approximately 25-30 minutes 1
- Optimal effects are observed between 35-40 minutes after application 1
- Other studies have investigated the onset time of different lidocaine formulations, including EMLA cream and 10% lidocaine cream, but the study by 1 provides the most recent and highest quality evidence
Clinical Implications
- When using lidocaine for skin numbing, it is essential to apply the correct amount and wait for the recommended time to ensure optimal effects
- The numbing effect of lidocaine can last for 30-60 minutes, and patients should be advised to avoid eating or drinking during this time to prevent choking
- Lidocaine works by temporarily blocking sodium channels in nerve cell membranes, which prevents the transmission of pain signals 2
- Clinicians should consider local anesthetics, including lidocaine, as part of their multimodal treatments of acute and chronic pain 2