Adult Health HEALTH

How the Lidoderm Patch Works

Written by andy

Have pain? Here’s everything you need to know about using a Lidoderm patch at home.

There’s a lot you need to know before you put a Lidoderm patch on

Lidocaine is a powerful painkiller, one that is used for many applications–including dental work. However, even in small quantities, it can be a useful treatment for various pains, which is why it has been used to make the Lidoderm patch. The Lidoderm patch contains just 5% of the medication, but it offers amazing pain-relieving benefits to those who use it. It is believed that the patch, when applied directly to the painful area, allows the lidocaine in the patch to seep into the skin and travel to the affected nerves and muscles. Using the patch does not flood your body with lidocaine, but provides a small enough dose that pain is greatly diminished. Whether you’re using it as a treatment for shingles or any other painful problem, it can be a highly effective solution. The beauty of the Lidoderm patch is that you don’t need to worry about negative interactions with oral pain medications. Considering that such a small amount of the drug seeps into your body, it will have a positive effect with a much lower risk of drug interactions. You can continue to take the oral medication (if your doctor permits/recommends it), all while using the Lidoderm patch. It’s a good solution for dealing with pain in a very specific location!

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There are a few things you need to know about using the Lidoderm patch:

How to use a Lidoderm patch

If you are going to use the Lidoderm patch, only use it for up to 12 hours at a time. Always take the patch off after 12 hours, and leave it off for 12 hours before applying a new one. Leaving the patch on for longer than 12 hours may lead to side effects, and you need that 12 hours without the patch to give your body a break.

Be careful!

Never touch your eyes immediately after applying the Lidoderm patch. Never apply the patch to or near your eyes, but you should make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after application of the patch anywhere on your body. Contact with your eye can lead to serious side effects. Also be mindful when using heating pads, heating blankets, or hot water bottles. The Lidoderm patch hasn’t been tested to evaluate how it reacts when exposed to direct heat, and there could be unforeseen consequences.

Where to buy Lidoderm patches

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Merchant

These patches are prescription-only, so you’ll need to chat with your doctor or have an virtual consultation to get your Rx. Once you do, it’s cheap, easy and fast to get your prescription filled. In fact, if you have insurance, Lidoderm patches are often free from Amazon.

SHOP LIDODERM PATCHES NOW

No prescription for Lidoderm? These pain-relief patches are OTC:

If you cant get an Rx for Lidoderm patches but have significant pain you’d like to conquer quickly and affordably, there are over-the-counter solutions. We like these top-rated Salonpas patches that have a sticky adhesive backing that lasts for hours without worry.

salonpas pain relief patches, over the counter pain relief patch, how do lidoderm patches work
Merchant As always, check with your doctor before using new OTC or prescription drugs.

SHOP OTC PAIN-RELIEF PATCHES NOW

Other things to keep in mind before using a Lidoderm patch

If you suffer from any form of liver disease, talk to your doctor before trying the Lidoderm patch. The medication may cause serious side effects, as the body needs the liver to process the medication. If your liver is unhealthy (due to disease), it may not be able to handle the influx of medication. Pregnant and nursing mothers should use the patch with EXTREME caution, and only according to the directions of a doctor. It is not expected to be harmful to the baby or mother, but it’s still better to be safe than sorry. Your doctor will be able to counsel you on how best to take the medication. There is a risk that the numbing medication can cause negative side effects, and there is even a risk of fatality (though thankfully it is a very low risk). If you apply the patch to a part of your skin that has been cut or where open sores are present, you may absorb more lidocaine than is healthy, leading to negative side effects. Love this article? Be sure to join our active discussions on The Luxury Spot Facebook page.

About the author

andy

Some people get lucky and are born with fit, toned bodies. Andy Peloquin is not one of those people... Fitness has come hard for him, and he's had to work for it. His trials have led him to becoming a martial artist, an NFPT-certified fitness trainer, and a man passionate about exercise, diet and healthy living. He loves to exercise--he does so six days a week--and loves to share his passion for fitness and health with others.

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