From the Guidelines
Lidocaine 4% patches should be applied for up to 12 to 24 hours, with up to 3 patches worn at a time, as needed, and for no more than 24 hours, as supported by the most recent study 1. When using lidocaine 4% patches, it is essential to follow the recommended application guidelines to minimize the risk of side effects and maximize efficacy.
- Apply the patch to intact, clean, dry skin over the affected area, such as the feet or hands.
- Leave the patch in place for up to 12 to 24 hours, as the study suggests this duration is effective for pain management 1.
- After removing the patch, leave the skin patch-free for at least 12 hours before applying a new one to avoid skin irritation.
- Wash your hands after handling the patch and avoid touching your eyes to prevent accidental exposure.
- The patch should be applied to skin that is not irritated or broken, as this can increase the risk of adverse effects.
- Lidocaine works as a local anesthetic by temporarily blocking nerve signals in the skin, which helps reduce pain sensations, making it an effective treatment option for conditions like erythromelalgia, as discussed in the study 1. Key considerations when using lidocaine 4% patches include:
- Do not use more patches than prescribed or leave them on for longer than recommended, as this could increase the risk of side effects.
- If you experience skin irritation, redness, or burning at the application site, remove the patch and consult your healthcare provider, as these may be signs of an adverse reaction.
From the FDA Drug Label
Directions Adults and children 2 years and older: apply externally to the affected area up to 3-4 times daily. Children under 2 years of age: consult a physician. You should apply the lidocaine patch 4% up to 3-4 times daily to the affected area, as directed for adults and children 2 years and older 2.
From the Research
Lidocaine Patch Application Frequency
The provided studies do not specifically address the application frequency of a 4% lidocaine patch. However, we can look at the application frequencies mentioned for the 5% lidocaine patch in the context of postherpetic neuralgia treatment:
- A study from 1996 3 applied lidocaine patches for 12 hours, with up to 3 patches used to cover the area of greatest pain.
- A review from 2004 4 mentions that the lidocaine patch 5% is typically applied for up to 24 hours/day, with minimal systemic absorption of lidocaine.
- A study from 2010 5 used a 5% lidocaine medicated plaster, but does not specify the application frequency.
Key Points to Consider
- The application frequency may depend on the specific product and the patient's response to treatment.
- It is essential to follow the recommended usage instructions provided by the manufacturer or healthcare professional.
- The studies suggest that lidocaine patches can be effective in relieving postherpetic neuralgia pain, but the optimal application frequency may vary.
Relevant Studies
- 3: Lidocaine patch: double-blind controlled study of a new treatment method for post-herpetic neuralgia.
- 4: Review of lidocaine patch 5% studies in the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia.
- 5: Post-herpetic neuralgia: 5% lidocaine medicated plaster, pregabalin, or a combination of both? A randomized, open, clinical effectiveness study.