Lidocaïne/Prilocaïne Zentiva (Lidocaine, Prilocaine)

Lidocaïne/Prilocaïne Zentiva is a topical anesthetic used to numb superficial tissues in various minor procedures.

• Minor skin surgery: provides rapid surface anesthesia to reduce procedural pain.
• Dermatologic procedures (e.g., laser therapy, microdermabrasion): minimizes discomfort during treatment.
• Mucosal anesthesia (e.g., oral, genital examinations): numbs the area to facilitate examination or minor interventions.

• Lidocaine and prilocaine are amide‑type local anesthetics that bind to voltage‑gated sodium channels on neuronal membranes. By stabilising the inactive state of these channels, they prevent the influx of sodium ions required for depolarisation, thereby inhibiting the generation and propagation of nerve impulses and producing reversible loss of sensation in the applied area.

Topical application of lidocaine/prilocaine may be associated with local and systemic adverse reactions.

Common Side Effects

• Burning or stinging sensation at the application site.
• Redness or mild erythema.
• Itching or mild rash.
• Swelling or edema of the treated area.
• Dizziness or light‑headedness.
• Transient numbness extending beyond the intended zone.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Methemoglobinemia, presenting with cyanosis and shortness of breath.
• Severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
• Systemic toxicity such as seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, or hypotension.
• Skin necrosis or ulceration at the site of prolonged exposure.
• Secondary infection of the treated area.

When using Lidocaïne/Prilocaïne Zentiva, consider the following safety measures.

• Assess for hypersensitivity: avoid if the patient has known allergy to amide local anesthetics.
• Apply to intact skin only: do not use on broken, inflamed, or infected skin.
• Limit application area: adhere to recommended surface‑area limits to reduce systemic absorption.
• Avoid concurrent use with other topical anesthetics: risk of cumulative toxicity.
• Monitor patients with cardiovascular disease: systemic absorption may affect heart rhythm.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and light.

Lidocaïne/Prilocaïne Zentiva can interact with other substances that affect its safety profile.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Concurrent use with other amide local anesthetics: increased risk of systemic toxicity.
• Co‑administration with methemoglobin‑inducing agents (e.g., benzocaine, dapsone): heightened risk of methemoglobinemia.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Use with vasoconstrictors such as epinephrine: may alter absorption rate and duration of effect.
• Combination with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs: potential for increased bleeding if invasive procedures are performed.
• Interaction with CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, quinidine): may modestly affect metabolism of prilocaine.