Use during pregnancy

Lidocaine-based ointments prevent the transmission of stimuli in the nerve fibers and thus prevent pain from being transmitted to the central nervous system. The experience with Lidocaine ointments in pregnancy and lactation is very high. So far, according to studies, no increased risk of malformation of the child has been observed in the first four months of pregnancy.

Local anesthetics in ointment form are generally well tolerated. Which medications are allowed during pregnancy? – Read about them here.

Duration of the effect

Lidocaine ointment contains lidocaine, a local anaesthetic of the acid amide type, which causes a temporary anaesthetic of the skin or mucous membrane after application of the ointment. The onset of action is rapid within 30 seconds – 5 minutes. In case of systemic intravenous administration the effect starts immediately.

Lidocaine has a half-life of 1.5 to 2 hours with external application. The duration depends on the type of local anesthetic. As with other local anesthetics, the correct dose and application are important for effective use.

It is therefore essential that you follow your doctor’s instructions! If Lidocaine ointment is used in larger quantities or more frequently than recommended by your doctor, dangerous blood levels can be reached. For pain and discomfort in hemorrhoids, 1-5 g of ointment can be applied.

Effect of the Lidocaine Ointment

Local anesthetics such as lidocaine reversibly prevent the influx of sodium into the nerve cells and inhibit the formation and transmission of excitation to the nerve membrane. This results in the elimination of pain. All nerve fibers (sensitive, motor and sensory) are blocked.

The fibers of the autonomic nervous system (sympathetic nerve blockade) are the first to be blocked. This leads to an expansion of the vessels and a feeling of warmth. Next, the sensory fibers that influence the sensation of temperature and pain are inhibited.

Then the fibers of the touch and pressure sensors are switched off and finally the motor fibers. The extent and strength of the effect depends on the concentration of the local anesthetic and the nature of the nerve fibers. In addition, the Lidocaine ointment contains a low concentration of the anesthetic, so that the sensation of pain is also eliminated.