Active ingredient and effect

Emla cream typically contains two active ingredients: lidocaine and prilocaine. Both active ingredients are very similar in their effect. They prevent the transmission of nerve signals.

Signals run in nerves as waves of electrical excitation. Nerves have special ion channels for this transmission. Lidocaine and prilocaine inhibit these ion channels.

Since these ion channels are crucial for the transmission of a nerve signal, the nerves are no longer able to transmit signals. Without the transmission of signals from the sensory cells of the skin, the sensation in the corresponding region is impaired. This is perceived as anaesthesia.

Thin nerve endings are more easily reached by the active ingredients than thicker ones. As a result, the small nerve endings of the skin are the first to fail. These are particularly important for coarse sensations such as pain or temperature.

Side effect

Lidocaine and prilocaine, which are contained in Emla Cream, mainly cause side effects when they enter the bloodstream. Other possible adverse effects are mainly local reactions of the skin. These include, for example, reddening or fading of the smeared skin.

It is also possible that the affected skin area swells after application. This is an increase in tissue water, which is known as edema. A slight burning or itching at the beginning of the treatment has also been observed.

The prilocaine contained in Emla Creme can cause a so-called methhemoglobinemia. This causes changes in the red blood pigment, also called haemoglobin. This can no longer efficiently deliver oxygen to the tissue. Especially small children are not able to effectively convert methhemoglobin into normal hemoglobin. Symptoms of methhemoglobinemia include blue lips, restlessness and unspecific complaints such as dizziness or headaches.

When should Emla Creme not be used?

Emla Creme should not be used if there is a hypersensitivity to any of the substances it contains. In addition to the active ingredients contained in the cream, there are other ingredients that are supposed to give the cream its consistency. Hypersensitivity to these may also exist.

As the active ingredients are chemically very similar to other local anesthetics, caution is required even if sensitivity to a related active ingredient is known.In addition, it is not recommended to use in the ear canal, especially if the eardrum is damaged. Care should also be taken in other areas of the body, such as the eyes. As always, a doctor or pharmacist should be consulted in case of doubt.