LIDODERM: The first and only lidocaine-based topical medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of PHN pain.

LIDODERM reduces the potential for PHN pain signal transmission. It is thought that LIDODERM stabilizes neuronal membranes by inhibiting ionic fluxes required for initiation and conduction of impulses.

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Theoretical representation specific to LIDODERM and its effect on PHN pain. However, the mechanism of action of Lidoderm is not known.

Only LIDODERM works directly at the site of PHN pain, with low risk of systemic adverse events when used appropriately1. LIDODERM is a first-line therapy, alone or with oral analgesics2,3.

LIDODERM: Preferred by approximately 4 out of 5 patients (P<0.001) in a clinical trial 4

  • 78% of patients preferred LIDODERM vs 9% for placebo patch in a randomized, enriched-enrollment, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover triala

a Results of enriched-enrollment studies can’t be generalized to the entire population; subjects in such studies may be able to distinguish the active drug from placebo based on nontherapeutic features of the treatments.

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Important Safety Information

LIDODERM® (lidocaine patch 5%) is indicated for relief of pain associated with post-herpetic neuralgia. Apply only to intact skin.

LIDODERM is contraindicated in patients with a history of sensitivity to local anesthetics (amide type) or any product component.

Even a used LIDODERM patch contains a large amount of lidocaine (at least 665 mg). The potential exists for a small child or pet to suffer serious adverse effects from chewing or ingesting a new or used LIDODERM patch, although the risk with this formulation has not been evaluated. It is important for patients to store and dispose of LIDODERM out of reach of children, pets, and others.

Excessive dosing, such as applying LIDODERM to larger areas or for longer than the recommended wearing time, could result in increased absorption of lidocaine and high blood concentrations leading to serious adverse effects.

Avoid contact of LIDODERM with the eye. If contact occurs, immediately wash the eye with water or saline and protect it until sensation returns. Avoid the use of external heat sources as this has not been evaluated and may increase plasma lidocaine levels.

Patients with severe hepatic disease are at greater risk of developing toxic blood concentrations of lidocaine, because of their inability to metabolize lidocaine normally. LIDODERM should be used with caution in patients receiving Class I antiarrhythmic drugs (such as tocainide and mexiletine) since the toxic effects are additive and potentially synergistic. LIDODERM should also be used with caution in pregnant (including labor and delivery) or nursing mothers.

Allergic reactions, although rare, can occur.

During or immediately after LIDODERM treatment, the skin at the site of application may develop blisters, bruising, burning sensation, depigmentation, dermatitis, discoloration, edema, erythema, exfoliation, irritation, papules, petechia, pruritus, vesicles, or may be the locus of abnormal sensation. These reactions are generally mild and transient, resolving spontaneously within a few minutes to hours. Other reactions may include dizziness, headache and nausea.

When LIDODERM is used concomitantly with local anesthetic products, the amount absorbed from all formulations must be considered.

Immediately discard used patches or remaining unused portions of cut patches in household trash in a manner that prevents accidental application or ingestion by children, pets, or others.

Before prescribing LIDODERM, please refer to the full Prescribing Information.

References

  1. Lidoderm Prescribing Information. Chadds Ford, PA: Endo Pharmaceuticals Inc; 2010.
  2. Dworkin RH, O’Connor AB, Backonja M, et al. Pharmacologic management of neuropathic pain: evidence-based recommendations. Pain. 2007;132(3): 237-251.
  3. Dubinsky RM, Kabbani H, El-Chami Z, Boutwell C, Ali H. Practice parameter: treatment of postherpetic neuralgia: anevidence-based report of the Quality Standards Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology. Neurology. 2004;63(6):959-965.
  4. Galer BS, Rowbotham MC, Perander J, Friedman E. Topical lidocaine patch relieves postherpetic neuralgia more effectively than a vehicle topical patch: results of an enriched enrollment study. Pain.1999;80(3):533-538.