Prilocaine
Prilocaine is a local anesthetic medication frequently combined with lidocaine in topical formulations to provide temporary numbness of the skin. It is primarily used to reduce pain and discomfort associated with minor procedures, needle insertions, and superficial skin treatments. This medication works by blocking nerve signals in the treated area, making it a common choice for both medical and cosmetic applications.
Prilocaine is a topical local anesthetic used to numb the skin before painful procedures.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N01BB04
- RxNorm
- 8686
- Generic
- Prilocaine
- Class
- atc-n01
- Brands
- Citanest, Relador, Citanest Forte, Oraqix
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- topical
- Forms
- solution, cream
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteruse lowest effective dose
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits clearly outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring recommended
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pregnancy
second trimesteruse lowest effective dose
use only when benefits outweigh potential risks
standard prenatal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingno adjustment needed
compatible with breastfeeding
none required
pediatric_age
children 2 12 yearsweight-based dosing required max 5mg/kg
use with caution due to risk of methemoglobinemia especially in younger children
observe for signs of methemoglobinemia cyanosis
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
geriatric
over 65 yearsreduce dose by 25-50%
use lower doses due to increased sensitivity and reduced hepatic metabolism
monitor cardiovascular and respiratory status
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
moderate to severereduce dose and extend dosing interval
use with caution in severe renal impairment monitor for accumulation
monitor renal function and for signs of toxicity
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderatereduce dose by 25-50%
use with caution due to reduced hepatic metabolism
monitor for signs of systemic toxicity
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
severeavoid or use extremely reduced doses
not recommended in severe hepatic impairment due to significantly reduced metabolism
close monitoring for toxicity required
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
Statistics and clinical data
Drug class
Prilocaine belongs to the amide local anesthetic class
ATC Code
Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical classification code for local anesthetics
Common uses
Primary therapeutic applications
Brand names
Available commercial formulations
Prilocaine is used for temporary pain relief during minor medical procedures such as needle insertions, blood draws, vaccinations, and dermatological treatments. It is also applied before cosmetic procedures, tattooing, and laser treatments. Additionally, it may be used to relieve pain associated with minor skin irritations or as part of combination therapies.
Prilocaine works by blocking sodium channels in nerve fibers, preventing the generation and conduction of nerve impulses. When applied topically, it penetrates the epidermal and dermal layers of the skin, accumulating in nerve endings to inhibit pain signals. The onset of action typically occurs within 30-60 minutes of application under an occlusive dressing.
Prilocaine should not be applied to broken or inflamed skin. Caution is needed in patients with methemoglobinemia, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, or those taking medications that affect methemoglobin levels. Side effects may include local skin reactions such as redness, pallor, or mild burning sensation at the application site.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy