Comparative Pharmacology
Head-to-head clinical analysis: EMLA versus XYLOCAINE PRESERVATIVE FREE.
Peer-Reviewed Evidence
Head-to-head clinical analysis: EMLA versus XYLOCAINE PRESERVATIVE FREE.
EMLA vs XYLOCAINE PRESERVATIVE FREE
Comparing the clinical profiles, pharmacokinetic behaviors, and safety indices of these two therapeutic agents.
EMLA is a eutectic mixture of lidocaine 2.5% and prilocaine 2.5%. Lidocaine and prilocaine are amide-type local anesthetics that block sodium ion channels in neuronal membranes, inhibiting the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses, thereby producing local analgesia.
Lidocaine stabilizes the neuronal membrane by inhibiting sodium ion influx, thereby blocking impulse initiation and conduction. It binds to voltage-gated sodium channels in the inactivated state, preventing depolarization and propagation of action potentials.
Apply a thick layer of cream (approximately 2.5 g per 20 cm²) to intact skin under an occlusive dressing for at least 1 hour for minor procedures; for dermal procedures on larger areas, apply up to 60 minutes before procedure, maximum single application area of 600 cm² in adults.
Adult dose: 1-30 mL of 1% or 2% solution (10-600 mg) via subcutaneous infiltration, peripheral nerve block, or epidural; max 4.5 mg/kg (300 mg without epinephrine, 7 mg/kg [500 mg] with epinephrine) per 2-hour period.
None Documented
None Documented
After topical application, the terminal elimination half-life of lidocaine is approximately 1.5-2 hours; prilocaine half-life is approximately 1.5 hours. In neonates, half-life may be prolonged due to immature hepatic function. Clinical context: Steady state is achieved within 12-24 hours with repeated application.
Terminal elimination half-life approximately 1.5-2 hours in adults; prolonged in hepatic impairment (up to 3-4 hours) and congestive heart failure.
Lidocaine and prilocaine are metabolized in the liver; lidocaine metabolites (primarily 4-hydroxyxylidine) and prilocaine metabolites (primarily o-toluidine) are excreted renally. Less than 5% of unchanged lidocaine and prilocaine are excreted unchanged in urine. Fecal excretion is negligible.
Renal excretion of metabolites (90-95% as metabolites, <5% unchanged); biliary/fecal excretion minimal (<1%).
Category C
Category C
Local Anesthetic
Local Anesthetic