FDA Issues Warnings on Topical Anesthetics

Uses in Laser Hair Removal Therapy Linked to Two Deaths

Jan 28, 2009

Topical anesthetics like lidocaine are commonly used to numb the skin of women preparing for laser hair removal. The misuse of these compounds can be life threatening.

Most people know the distinct aroma of muscle creams. It was not until the death of a Staten Island teen athlete did people examine their use of this group of over the counter medications like Ben-Gay and Icy Hot. Along the same vein, it was not until the deaths of two young women did the risk associated with applying the topical anesthetic, lidocaine gel become a public health concern.

How People Are Exposed To Lidocaine Gel

Lidocaine gels are commonly applied to the skin to numb an area before a laser hair removal procedure. Consumers obtain the lidocaine from the clinics that perform the procedure in advance. The lidocaine gels sometimes contain higher concerntrations than the Food and Drug Administration recommended doses. Although the anesthetics work to block pain sensation in the skin, some levels pass end up in the blood. This is process is amplified if:

US Food and Drug Administration Reacts to Lidocaine Gel Use

In February 2007, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a Health Advisory-Life-Threatening Side Effects with the use of Skin Products Containing Numbing Ingredients for Cosmetic Procedures The advisory came after the deaths of two women who used the cream to numb their legs before a laser hair removal procedure. After they applied the cream they wrapped their legs in plastic wrap. Unfortunately the ladies died from the toxic effects of the lidocaine in the topical anesthetic. The cream used in this case contained high levels of lidocaine. Lidocaine if applied in high amounts can enter into the blood stream and cause irregular heart beats, seizures and eventually death.

Second FDA Health Advisory

FDA released a second health advisor after a study determined that lidocaine gel could be used as an effective numbing agent during mammograms (Lambertz CK et al. Pre medication to Reduce Discomfort during Screening Mammography. Radiology 2008; 248 (3): 765-72.) The USFDA still maintains that the full health effects associated with lidocaine use are not understood therefore use of the topical anesthetic should be under the supervision of a trained healthcare provider.

· Make sure to obtain instruction from a professional health care provider before using cream for a chemical procedure.

Consumers Be Aware

Consumers should be aware of the toxic effects associated with the misuse of over-the-counter drugs. Even though these creams and gels are available without prescription, they are still drugs and should be treated as such. Consumers need to read labels carefully and follow the instructions. The FDA recommends the use of other topical agents under the supervision of a physician if a larger dose of lidocaine gel is needed.

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