Generic Xylocaine

Common use

Xylocaine is a local anesthetic which acts via blocking voltage-gated Na + channels, which prevent generation of impulses in sensory nerve endings and conduct pain impulses in nerve fibers. Its affect develops in 1-5 min after application to skin or mucous membranes and lasts for 30-60 min. Xylocaine is used for topical anesthesia of mucous membranes in in dentistry, otorhinolaryngology, gynecology, in instrumental and endoscopic examinations, radiographic examination, as an analgesic drugs for burns, bites, contact dermatitis and small wounds.



Dosage and direction

Xylocaine gel is for topical use only. Apply to to dry and clean skin when needed 3-4 times a day.



Precautions

Cautiousness should be exercised in individuals with hemorrhoidal bleeding, trauma of a mucous membrane or skin, debilitated patients, in elderly and children, pregnant and breastfeeding women. Avoid getting Xylocaine in the eyes. Be careful not to accidentally injure skin area treated by Xylocaine. Avoid contacting very hot or cold surfaces.



Contraindications

This medication cannot be used in patients with hypersensitivity to Xylocaine.



Possible side effect

Adverse reactions to this medication may include signs of allergic reaction such as stinging, severe burning, sensitivity where the medicine is applied, sudden dizziness or sleepiness after medicine is applied, swelling or redness, unusual sensations of temperature, bruising or purple appearance of the skin. More serious side effects include urethritis, headache, blurred vision, drop in blood pressure, bradycardia, arrhythmia, anxiety, agitation.



Drug interaction

Cimetidine and propranolol may increase blood levels of Xylocaine and increase its toxicity resulting in such symptoms as bradycardia, paresthesia, stupor, drowsiness, etc. Barbiturates, phenytoin, rifampin reduce effectiveness of Xylocaine. Co-administration with Aymalin, phenytoin, verapamil, chinidin, amiodarone may increase the reduce of contraction force of the heart. Beta-blockers co-administered with Xylocaine increase risk of bradycardia. Concomitant use of Xylocaine and Procainamide increases risk of CNS excitation and hallucinations. Simultaneous treatment by Xylocaine, hypnotics or sedative drugs may increase inhibition of CNS. Suppression of breathing is possible when hexobarbital is coadministered with thiopental sodium. MAO inhibitors may strengthen local anesthetic effects of Xylocaine. Inform your doctor either if you use mexiletine (Mexitil), acetaminophen (Tylenol), nitrates or nitrites ( Isordil, Monoket, Imdur), phenobarbital (Solfoton, Luminal), chloroquine (Aralen), nitrofurantoin (Furadantin, Macrodantin, Macro-Bid), a sulfa drug (Septra, Bactrim, Gantanol, Gantrisin).



Missed dose

Xylocaine cream is used when needed and you are not likely to be on a dosing schedule.



Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include seizure, uneven heartbeats, slowed breathing, respiratory failure, and even coma.



Storage

Store between 15-30 C (59-86 F). Protect from moisture and dispensed in tight, light-resistant container.



Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.

Clinical Verification

Last Clinically Updated: August 15, 2026

Written By

Dr. Elena Vance, PharmD

Clinical Specialist in Neuropharmacology

Fact Checked By

Marcus Thorne, MS

Biomedical Data & FDA Label Verification

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Arthur Campbell, MD

Board-Certified Psychiatrist (ABPN)