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Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Prilocaine Hydrochloride + Felypressin Prilocaine/Lignocaine

Prilocaine/Lignocaine - Dosage and How to Use

How should Prilocaine/Lignocaine be used?

  • Squeeze out the prescribed quantity of the cream on the area of the skin where the procedure or injection is to be done. Do not rub EMLA cream into the skin. 
  • Take one of the occlusive dressings provided, and remove the cut-out piece in the middle 
  • Peel the paper liner from the framed dressing. 
  • Cover the EMLA cream with this dressing so that you get a thick layer of cream between your skin and the dressing. Do not spread out the cream. Press down on the sides of the dressing carefully to avoid leakages. It is important to cover EMLA cream with an air-tight dressing to ensure that the cream enters the skin properly and numbs the skin 
  • Remove the frame of the dressing. Write down the time the cream was applied, directly on the dressing. 
  • Wash your hands immediately after using EMLA. 
  • Remove the dressing and wipe off the cream after the recommended duration of application in the table below or as advised by your doctor. 
​Type of procedures/ injections
Patient group​ Duration of application​
​Minor procedures e.g., putting in needle, removal of molluscum bumps, or other minor skin operations

​ ​
​Infants 0- 12 months old
​1 hour
Children 1- 12 years old​1 hour; maximum 5 hours​

Children with atopic dermatitis or eczema
​30 minutes
12years of age>​​1 hour; maximum 5 hours
​Procedures that require deeper skin anaesthesia e.g., split-skin grafting
​Adults
​2 hours; maximum 5 hours
​Use on genital skin before injection of local anaesthetics
Adults ​
15 minutes on male 60 minutes on female ​
​Use on genital mucosa before injection of local anaesthetics
​Adults
​5-10 minutes Dressing is not used
​Cleaning of leg ulcers

Adults
​30 minutes to 1 hour

Your doctor may use EMLA cream for specialized procedures. Follow your doctor's instructions for use.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

EMLA is usually only applied once prior to each procedure. It must be in contact with the skin for a period of time for it to work. If you applied this medication later than directed, tell your health care professional before starting the procedure.

What should I do if I overdose?

Prilocaine/Lignocaine - Additional Information

  • Updated on
  • Article contributed by PSS National Medication Information Workgroup PSS National Medication Information Workgroup
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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