Indications
Xylocaine Jelly is a topical anesthetic gel commonly used to prevent pain and discomfort during certain medical procedures that involve the male and female urethra or the urinary tract. It is also used to numb the lining of the mouth, throat, or nose before certain medical procedures (such as intubation).
Lidocaine, the active ingredient in Xylocaine Jelly, belongs to a class of drugs known as local anesthetics which blocks the signals at the nerve endings in the skin, making the nerves unable to pass messages to the brain. Xylocaine Jelly works by numbing certain areas of the body that are moist.
Use and Dosage
Xylocaine Jelly is typically applied by a healthcare professional just before the procedure to numb the tissue and prevent pain. However, if you are using Xylocaine Jelly at home, be sure to follow the preparation and usage instructions provided by your healthcare professional and found in the product package.
Before using, clean the affected area, and apply the jelly as directed using clean hands, being careful not to get it in your eyes. Wash your hands after use and discard any unused jelly after the first use.
The dosage will depend on your medical condition and how you respond to treatment, with the dosage for children also based on their age and weight. Do not use more than 4 doses within a 24-hour period, and do not take more than prescribed or use it for longer than instructed, as this can increase your risk of serious side effects.
If using Xylocaine Jelly in the mouth or throat, it can cause numbness that could make swallowing difficult and increase the risk of swallowing the wrong way or choking. Do not chew gum or eat for 1 hour after using the product while your mouth or throat is numb, especially for children who underwent a procedure. Also, be careful not to accidentally bite your tongue or mouth.
Lidocaine, the active ingredient in Xylocaine Jelly, starts to work within 5 minutes after application. If you do not feel numb after using the medication or the numbness does not go away, talk to your doctor. And if you are using it to relieve pain or discomfort, make sure to inform your healthcare provider if your condition lasts or worsens.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Xylocaine Jelly (Lidocaine):
- Irritation where Xylocaine Jelly (lidocaine gel) is used
- Swelling
- Redness
- Change in skin color
Serious Side Effects of Xylocaine Jelly (Lidocaine):
- Change in eyesight
- Chest pain
- Dizziness or passing out
- Feeling hot or cold
- Feeling lightheaded, sleepy, confused, or having blurred eyesight
- Feeling nervous and excitable
- Ringing in ears
- Seizures
- Shakiness
- Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Signs of infection like fever, chills, very bad sore throat, ear or sinus pain, cough, more sputum or change in color of sputum, pain with passing urine, mouth sores, or wound that will not heal
- Slow heartbeat
- Trouble breathing, slow breathing, or shallow breathing
- Twitching
- Upset stomach or throwing up
- Very bad numbness and tingling
Forms and Strength
Xylocaine Jelly (Lidocaine) is available in the following forms and strength:
Xylocaine Jelly: Gel
- 2%
Cautions
- Allergy: Do not use Xylocaine Jelly if you have a known allergy to lidocaine or any of the other ingredients in the gel.
- Impaired liver function: Caution is advised when using Xylocaine Jelly in patients with liver disease as it may lead to the accumulation of lidocaine, which may cause toxic effects.
- Impaired kidney function: Caution is advised when using Xylocaine Jelly in patients with kidney disease as it may lead to the accumulation of lidocaine, which may cause toxic effects.
- Pregnant/breastfeeding women: Caution is advised when using Xylocaine Jelly in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to the potential risk to the fetus or infant.
- Children: Caution is advised when using Xylocaine Jelly in children as they may be more sensitive to the effects of lidocaine.
- Heart problems: Caution is advised when using Xylocaine Jelly in patients with heart problems as it may cause changes in heart rhythm, and in some cases, may lead to serious heart problems.
- Neurological conditions: Caution is advised when using Xylocaine Jelly in patients with neurological conditions such as epilepsy or multiple sclerosis, as it may cause worsening of the condition.
- Interactions with other medications: Xylocaine Jelly may interact with other medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as herbal products and supplements. Inform your healthcare provider of all the medications you are taking before using Xylocaine Jelly to avoid potentially harmful interactions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Xylocaine Jelly be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Caution is advised when using Xylocaine Jelly in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to the potential risk to the fetus or infant. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider before using Xylocaine Jelly.
Is a prescription required to use Xylocaine Jelly?
Yes, Xylocaine Jelly is available by prescription only and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
How long does Xylocaine Jelly take to work?
Xylocaine Jelly usually takes effect within a few minutes of being applied.
How long does the numbing effect of Xylocaine Jelly last?
The numbing effect of Xylocaine Jelly typically lasts for 30 minutes to an hour.
Is Xylocaine Jelly safe?
Xylocaine Jelly is considered safe when used as directed. However, like all medications, it can cause side effects in some people.
Resources
- https://www.drugs.com/cdi/xylocaine-jelly.html
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/anda/2011/040837Orig1s000.pdf
- https://journals.lww.com/jcrs/Fulltext/2000/06000/Xylocaine_Jelly_and_Ocular_Surgery.12.aspx
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-75930/xylocaine-jelly-mucous-membrane/details
- https://www.xylocaine.com.au/jelly/
- https://www.drugs.com/pro/xylocaine-jelly.html
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