Why is this medication prescribed?

The Aspercreme Patch is typically prescribed to relieve localized pain. It works by delivering a local anesthetic directly to the area of pain through the skin. This can be useful for conditions such as:

• Localized nerve pain: For example, pain from shingles (postherpetic neuralgia) or diabetic neuropathy.
• Muscle or joint pain: For temporary relief from sore muscles or joint pain.
• Minor skin irritations: Sometimes used for discomfort from minor skin conditions.

The patch helps numb the area, providing relief from pain without systemic effects, which makes it a good option for people who need targeted pain management.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how to use the Aspercreme Patch (Generic Lidocaine Transdermal Patch) properly:

• Clean the Area: Before applying the patch, wash and dry the affected area thoroughly. Make sure the skin is clean, dry, and free of any creams, oils, or lotions.
• Open the Pouch: Open the sealed pouch by tearing along the dotted line. Remove the patch from the pouch and peel off the clear protective liner from the back of the patch. Do not use scissors to open the pouch, as you may damage the patch.
• Apply the Patch: Place the patch directly onto the painful area. Press it firmly in place, ensuring that it adheres completely to the skin. The patch can be cut into smaller sizes to fit smaller areas if needed, but do not cut the patch while it’s on the skin.
• Wear the Patch: Leave the patch on the skin for up to 8 to 12 hours within a 24-hour period. Do not exceed 12 hours of wear time in a single day.
• Remove the Patch: After the specified time, carefully remove the patch. Fold it in half with the sticky sides together and dispose of it properly, out of reach of children and pets. Do not flush the patch down the toilet.
• Wash Hands: After handling the patch, wash your hands thoroughly to avoid any accidental transfer of lidocaine to other parts of the body (like the eyes).
• Avoid Reuse:  Do not reuse a patch. Each patch is designed for a single use only.
• Apply to Intact Skin Only: Do not apply the patch to broken, irritated, or damaged skin, as this may increase absorption of the medication and cause irritation.
• Avoid Heat Sources: Do not apply the patch near sources of heat (like heating pads or hot water bottles) or in direct sunlight, as heat can increase the amount of lidocaine absorbed through the skin, potentially leading to an overdose.
• Storage: Store the patches at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture. Keep them in their sealed pouch until ready to use.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the use of this medication and report any unusual symptoms or side effects.

Other uses for this medicine

In addition to its primary use for relieving localized pain and nerve pain, the Aspercreme Patch may also be used for:

• Chronic Pain Management: It can be used as part of a pain management plan for chronic conditions like fibromyalgia or peripheral neuropathy (nerve pain due to diabetes or other conditions).
• Post-Surgical Pain: Sometimes, it is used to help alleviate pain following certain types of surgeries, particularly when there is nerve involvement.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions to Follow When Using Aspercreme Patch:

• Allergic Reactions: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to lidocaine or any other local anesthetics (e.g., bupivacaine, prilocaine) or if you have had allergic reactions to other medications, foods, or substances.
• Heart Conditions: If you have a history of heart rhythm problems (like a slow or irregular heartbeat) or heart block, use the patch with caution, as lidocaine can affect heart rhythm.
• Liver or Kidney Issues: Let your doctor know if you have liver or kidney disease, as these conditions can affect how your body processes lidocaine, potentially increasing the risk of side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as the safety of using lidocaine patches during pregnancy or while nursing has not been fully established.
• Open Wounds or Irritated Skin: Do not apply the patch to broken, irritated, or damaged skin, as this can lead to increased absorption of the medication and potential side effects.
• Avoid Excessive Heat: Keep the patch away from heat sources such as heating pads, electric blankets, or hot baths, as heat can increase the amount of lidocaine absorbed through the skin, raising the risk of toxicity.
• Eye Contact: Avoid getting the patch or lidocaine in your eyes. If it does come into contact with the eyes, rinse them immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your doctor of all other medications you are taking (prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products) to avoid potential interactions. For example, certain heart medications, other local anesthetics, and antiarrhythmic drugs can interact with lidocaine.
• Use in Children: Safety and efficacy in children under 12 have not been established, so consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Avoid Long-Term Use: Prolonged or overuse can lead to increased sensitivity in the treated area or a reduced effect of the medication over time.

Always adhere to the guidance provided by your healthcare team and contact them if you have any concerns or experience any adverse effects.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions associated with the Aspercreme Patch. You can eat and drink normally while using the patch. However, maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding excessive alcohol may help support overall health and potentially minimize any interactions with other medications you might be taking.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Application Timing: If you missed a dose or forgot to apply a patch, wait until the next scheduled application time. Do not apply two patches at once or in a double dose to make up for the missed application.
• Regular Use: Resume your normal application schedule as soon as you remember. Apply the patch according to the regular usage instructions and avoid extending wear times beyond the recommended limit.
• Consult Your Doctor: If you are unsure about how to handle a missed dose or if you have concerns, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Aspercreme Patch (Lidocaine Transdermal Patch) can cause several side effects, though not everyone will experience them. Common side effects include:

• Skin Irritation: Redness, itching, or rash at the application site.
• Burning Sensation: A burning or tingling feeling where the patch is applied.
• Allergic Reaction: Severe allergic reactions, though rare, can occur and may include symptoms like swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing.
• Headache: Some people may experience headaches.
• Drowsiness or Dizziness: Although less common, some users might feel drowsy or dizzy.

If you experience severe side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately. If you have any concerns or notice unusual symptoms, it’s a good idea to contact your healthcare provider.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Aspercreme Patch:

Storage:

• Store the Aspercreme Patch at room temperature, typically between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
• Keep the patches in their sealed pouches, away from excess heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
• Store in a safe place out of reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• After use, fold the patch in half with the sticky sides together and dispose of it in the household trash. Do not flush the patches down the toilet.
• If you have unused patches that need to be disposed of, follow any specific disposal instructions provided by your pharmacist or local waste disposal guidelines. Some communities have take-back programs or specific disposal facilities for medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Remove the Patch: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, remove the patch immediately.
• Seek Medical Help: Contact emergency medical services or go to the nearest emergency room. Overdose symptoms may include severe dizziness, seizures, confusion, irregular heartbeat, or difficulty breathing.
• Systemic Effects: Due to excessive absorption, symptoms might include dizziness, tremors, seizures, or severe allergic reactions.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-Up: Regularly review your treatment plan with your healthcare provider to ensure the patch is working effectively and adjust as needed.
• Avoid Interactions: Inform your doctor of all other medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Medical History: Update your healthcare provider on any changes in your medical history or new symptoms that occur while using the patch.
• Proper Use: Use the patch as directed and do not exceed the recommended wear time to minimize risks and side effects.

Always follow the specific instructions given by your healthcare provider and consult them with any concerns or questions about your treatment and care.