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Lidocaine/prilocaine (On the gums)

Lidocaine (LYE-doe-kane), Prilocaine (PRIL-oh-kane)

Numbs the gums during dental procedures. This medicine contains a local anesthetic.

Brand Name(s):

Oraqix

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine is not right for everyone. You should not receive it if you had an allergic reaction to lidocaine, prilocaine, or similar medicines.

How to Use This Medicine:

Gel/Jelly

  • A dentist or other trained health professional will give you this medicine in an office or clinic setting. The medicine is applied to the gums using an applicator and special dispenser.
  • Avoid injury to the treated area until the numbness in your mouth wears off. Avoid foods or liquids that are very hot or very cold. Do not chew gum or food while your mouth feels numb.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Some medicines can affect how lidocaine/prilocaine works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
    • Acetaminophen, chloroquine, metoclopramide, mexiletine, primaquine, quinine, sulfasalazine, tocainide
    • Cancer medicine (including cyclophosphamide, flutamide, hydroxyurea, ifosfamide, rasburicase)
    • Medicine to treat an infection (including dapsone, nitrofurantoin, para-aminosalicylic acid, sulfonamide)
    • Medicine to treat seizures (including phenobarbital, phenytoin, sodium valproate)
    • Nitrate or nitrite medicine (including nitric oxide, nitroglycerin, nitroprusside, nitrous oxide)

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Tell your dentist if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, heart disease, a blood disorder, G6PD, or lung or breathing problems.
  • This medicine may cause a rare, but serious blood problem called methemoglobinemia.
  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Fast, slow, pounding, or uneven heartbeat
  • Numbness in the mouth that continues
  • Pain, swelling, irritation, redness, sores, or blisters in the mouth
  • Pale, gray, or blue lips, nails, or skin, dark urine, headache, unusual tiredness or weakness
  • Tremors or convulsions (seizures)

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088


Last Updated: 9/6/2024
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