Topical anesthetics

Topical anesthetics are medicines that numb and reduce the sensation of pain in the area to which they are applied. They are available as creams, ointments, solutions, eye drops, gels or sprays and may be applied to areas such as the skin, inside the mouth or throat, in the nose, or in the eyes.

Topical anesthetics may be applied to the skin to relieve pain caused by sunburn or other minor burns, insect bites, minor cuts, or before dressing changes when wounds are extensive. They may also be used prior to vaccination or any other procedure that requires insertion of a needle.