What is Emla Cream?
This is a local anaesthetic cream that contains the active ingredients 'lidocaine' and 'prilocaine'. When applied to the skin, Emla Cream numbs the surrounding area. This makes it an ideal medication for treating patients who suffer from premature ejaculation (PE), however it should be noted, that its use for the treatment of PE is currently off-label.
How does Emla Cream work?
As a mild anaesthetic, when applied to the skin, Emla Cream blocks sensation. This numbing effect reduces sensitivity and thus (when applied to the penis) it prolongs sexual intercourse. After applying the cream, you should wait for up to 20 minutes before engaging in sexual activity, and first wash the exposed skin as if you don't Emla cream can cause irritation symptoms for your partner.
How do I use Emla Cream?
To effectively use this treatment, please follow the instructions below:
- You should apply a pea-sized amount of cream to cover the glans penis (the end of the penis, if you have foreskin you will need to retract this first)
- The cream should be applied 20 minutes before intercourse.
- Hands should be washed thoroughly after application
- The Emla cream should be washed off the penis after 20 minutes.
- If using a condom during intercourse you should be aware that some condoms can be damaged by Emla, so other precautions should also be taken for contraception.
- If the cream gets into your eyes, rinse thoroughly with saline solution.
- Do not apply the cream to broken skin, or skin affected by a rash or eczema.
What dosages does Emla Cream come in?
One gram of Emla cream contains 25 mg of lidocaine and 25 mg of prilocaine. Emla Cream is generally available in two sizes: 5g or 30g. However, regardless of the volume purchased, a pea-sized amount should only ever be applied to the glans penis.
What are some common Emla Cream side effects?
Commonly reported side effects include pale, pink, or swollen skin at the site of application. You may also experience itching or tingling, as well as a warm sensation. Rarer reactions include blue/grey skin and methemoglobinemia, the symptoms of which are: headache, shortness of breath, nausea, rapid heart rate, fatigue and lethargy, confusion or stupor, loss of consciousness. You should contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms, or any others.
What Emla Cream precautions/interactions should I be aware of?
While this treatment is relatively safe, you should avoid it if you are allergic to bupivacaine, ropivacaine, any other amide anaesthetics. You should also exercise caution if you: are deficient in G6PD; have anaemia or methemoglobinemia (or, are taking medications that could cause such conditions); have eczema; or are currently taking antiarrhythmic medicines. You should avoid this treatment if you and your partner are trying to conceive.
Can I buy Emla Cream online?
You can buy Emla Cream online after completing a free online consultation. One of our doctors will review this to ensure the treatment is correct and will issue a prescription. Once approved, this consultation is kept in your member's area should you need it in the future.
How will Emla Cream be delivered?
We offer free, next-day delivery to an address of your choice. To be eligible for this, you must have your consultation completed by 4.30 pm, Monday to Friday. Our doctors will then review this consultation. The entire process takes approximately 10 minutes, dependant on the speed you complete the consultation and the availability of our medical staff.
