How many lidocaine (local anesthetic) patches are in a standard box?

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Last updated: December 7, 2025View editorial policy

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Lidocaine Patch Box Quantity

Standard lidocaine patch boxes typically contain 30 patches, though some manufacturers package them in boxes of 5,10, or 15 patches depending on the formulation and intended use.

Standard Packaging Configurations

The most common commercial packaging for prescription lidocaine patches includes:

  • 30-patch boxes: This is the standard quantity for most 5% lidocaine patch prescriptions, providing a one-month supply when using up to 3 patches daily with the recommended 12-hour on/12-hour off schedule 1, 2

  • Smaller quantities: Some manufacturers offer boxes of 5,10, or 15 patches for trial periods or short-term use 3

Clinical Context for Prescribing

Understanding box quantities is important for appropriate prescribing:

  • Daily usage: Up to 3-4 patches may be applied simultaneously to cover larger painful areas, with each patch covering approximately 140 cm² (10 x 14 cm) 4, 3

  • Application schedule: The standard protocol is 12 hours on, followed by 12 hours off, regardless of the number of patches used 1

  • Monthly supply calculation: If a patient uses 3 patches daily, a 30-patch box provides a 10-day supply; if using 1 patch daily, it provides a 30-day supply 1, 2

Practical Prescribing Considerations

When writing prescriptions, consider:

  • Coverage area: Each patch is 10 x 14 cm (140 cm²), and up to 3 patches can cover a maximum of 420 cm² 4

  • Cost-effectiveness: The 1.8% topical lidocaine system (approved 2018) offers bioequivalent delivery with only 36 mg drug load versus 700 mg in 5% patches, though packaging quantities may vary 5

References

Guideline

Lidocaine Patch Use Guidelines

Praxis Medical Insights: Practical Summaries of Clinical Guidelines, 2025

Guideline

Lidocaine Cream and Patch for Back Pain Management

Praxis Medical Insights: Practical Summaries of Clinical Guidelines, 2025

Research

Lidocaine patch 5%.

Drugs, 2000

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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