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Home > Drug Category > Skin Medications (Topical/Oral) > Maxilene and Equivalent

Maxilene Information

Maxilene (Lidocaine) is used to relieve pain, itching, and other sensations caused by minor skin irritations, insect bites, burns, and skin scrapes. It is also used topically to numb the skin in preparation for minor medical procedures, such as injections, minor dermatological surgeries, laser treatments, or cosmetic skin procedures like tattooing. Furthermore, it may also be used to relieve pain, itching, and other discomfort caused by various anal conditions such as hemorrhoids and anorectal inflammation. Its active ingredient is lidocaine, which belongs to the amide-type local anesthetics class of drugs. Lidocaine works by blocking voltage-gated sodium channels in nerve cells, which prevents the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses. This action prevents nerves from sending pain signals to the brain, resulting in a numbing effect in the area where it is applied. Maxilene is a topical cream that begins to work in approximately 3-5 minutes. It has a relatively short half-life (approximately 1.5 to 2 hours). It is minimally absorbed into the skin, with mostly local effects.

Maxilene Side Effects

While Maxilene Cream is generally safe to use, it may cause mild side effects, such as redness, paleness, itching, or tingling, at the application site on the skin. Stop using this topical medicine and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, including the following:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Bluish discoloration of the skin;
• Fainting;
• Sudden dizziness or drowsiness

Inform your doctor about any other side effects you notice that are not listed here.

Maxilene Precautions

Do not use this topical cream if you are allergic to lidocaine or any other ingredients in Maxilene. Before applying this medication, ensure you inform your doctor about any medical conditions you previously or currently have, including the following:
• Eczema;
• Rare inherited conditions such as porphyria, methemoglobinemia, or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency;
• Sepsis (blood infection)

Consult your doctor before using this topical cream during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This topical medicine should be used with caution in children and older adults. Some medications, such as antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and nitrates, may interact with this topical lidocaine and increase the risk of side effects. Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including other topical medications that you are using, before starting Maxilene to prevent potential drug interactions. Apply Maxilene cream on the affected area as stated in the medication pack or as directed by your doctor. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage. Ensure you clean the skin with soap and water before application. Avoid using alcohol products for cleaning as they can impair the effectiveness of this cream. Do not use the cream on your eyes, ears, nose, or the inside of your mouth. Store this medication in a cool and dry place.

Do I need a prescription to order Maxilene?

No, a prescription is not required from your physician to order Maxilene.