Prilocaine: what it is and when it helps

Prilocaine is a local anesthetic used to numb skin and tissues for short procedures. Dentists, minor surgery teams, and dermatologists use it. It comes as an injection and as a topical cream or patch. Compared with lidocaine, prilocaine sometimes causes less burning and can last a bit longer in certain uses.

How prilocaine is used and dosed

For topical use, prilocaine often appears combined with lidocaine in a cream (EMLA-like products). You apply a thick layer to clean skin and cover it with an occlusive dressing. Wait times differ by procedure: 30–60 minutes for superficial numbing, up to 2 hours for deeper numbness. Follow product instructions — thicker skin or colder areas need more time.

Injectable prilocaine is given by trained clinicians. Dental doses vary, but a common single injection for a tooth procedure is measured in milliliters of a specific concentration. Total safe dose depends on body weight and formulation. Never self-inject; use only under professional care.

Safety, side effects and warnings

Prilocaine is generally safe when used correctly. Common side effects are mild: temporary numbness, redness, or swelling at the site. Pay attention to rare but serious reactions.

Methemoglobinemia is the most important rare risk. That’s when oxygen delivery in the blood drops and a person becomes pale or blue and short of breath. Infants, people with certain blood disorders, and high total doses are at higher risk. If you notice unusual breathing problems, rapid heartbeat, or bluish skin, get emergency care.

Avoid prilocaine if you have known allergies to amide local anesthetics. Tell your clinician about liver disease, heart problems, or pregnancy. Most topical uses are considered low risk in pregnancy, but check with your provider before using any anesthetic.

Don’t mix prilocaine products unless a clinician tells you to. Combining other numbing creams or using more than recommended increases the chance of toxicity. Keep the product away from broken skin unless the label allows it.

If you buy topical prilocaine products online, choose reputable pharmacies. Look for clear labeling, an ingredients list, and contact info. Avoid unverified marketplaces and extremely low prices that seem too good to be true.

Storage is simple: keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Check expiry dates. Dispose of used dressings and leftover cream per local rules or pharmacy advice.

If you feel prolonged numbness, worsening pain, signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, pus), or signs of a systemic reaction (dizziness, fainting, trouble breathing), contact your doctor or emergency services right away.

Want a quick comparison? Lidocaine is more common and well-studied; prilocaine may be gentler in some settings and has that methemoglobinemia risk to watch for. Talk to your clinician about which is best for your procedure.

Prilocaine can be very effective for short procedures when used correctly. Ask questions beforehand, follow dosing instructions, and report any odd symptoms fast. That keeps numbing safe and your procedure comfortable.