Lidocaine (rectal)

Lidocaine (rectal) is a local anesthetic (numbing medication).

Lidocaine (rectal) is a local anesthetic (numbing medication) used to help adults and children who are at least 12 years old to get temporary relief from pain, itching, and burning caused by hemorrhoids or other issues in the rectum and anus.

Lidocaine (rectal) may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Follow all instructions on the label and package. Use it exactly as directed. Inform your healthcare provider if you are using other medicines or if you have other medical conditions or allergies.

You should not use lidocaine (rectal) if you are allergic to it.

Fatal overdoses have happened when numbing medicines were used without the guidance of a medical doctor (for example, during cosmetic procedures like laser hair removal). Be aware that many cosmetic procedures are done without a medical doctor present.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using lidocaine (rectal) if you have health problems or take other medications, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 12 years old without medical advice.

Get emergency medical help if you notice signs of an allergic reaction: hives, trouble breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Lidocaine (rectal) can cause serious side effects. Stop using lidocaine (rectal) and call your doctor right away if you experience:

• rectal bleeding; or
• increased redness, irritation, swelling, or pain.

Less serious side effects might happen more often, or you may not have any side effects at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. Contact your doctor for medical advice regarding side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Lidocaine rectal is for use only around the outside of your anus. Do not apply lidocaine rectal directly in the rectum using your fingers, any mechanical device, or applicator.

Lidocaine rectal is usually applied 1 to 6 times daily. Do not use this medicine more often or longer than directed.

Wash your hands before and after applying this medicine.

When possible, clean the affected area with warm water and mild soap, and rinse thoroughly. Dry by patting or blotting with toilet tissue or a soft cloth before using lidocaine rectal.

Use only a small amount of medicine on the affected area. Do not apply this medicine to skin that is raw or blistered, such as a severe burn or abrasion.

Stop using this medicine and call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days, if it gets worse, or if it clears up and then comes back in a few days.

Lidocaine rectal gel is flammable. Do not use near high heat or open flame. Do not smoke until the gel has completely dried on your skin.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.

Lidocaine (rectal) is used as needed. If you are following a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at the same time.

Seek emergency medical help or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone accidentally swallows the medicine.

Do not get lidocaine (rectal) in your eyes. If it happens, rinse your eyes with water.

Avoid using other medications on the areas you treat with lidocaine, rectal, unless your doctor tells you to.

Other drugs may impact lidocaine (rectal), including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you are using.