An Introduction to Dosing With the Lidocaine Patch
The dose of
lidocaine patch (Lidoderm
® patch) your healthcare provider recommends will depend mostly on how large an area requires treatment. As is always the case, do not adjust your dosage unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Lidocaine Patch Dose for Post-Shingles Pain
The standard recommended dosage when using the lidocaine patch for
postherpetic neuralgia pain (pain that occurs after a case of
shingles) is up to three patches applied once daily for up to 12 hours. The patch(es) may be cut to a smaller size if necessary and should be applied directly to the most painful areas. Use only on intact, non-blistered skin.
It is important that you remember to remove the patch(es) after 12 hours, as keeping them on for longer periods of time could lead to overdose symptoms
(see Lidoderm Overdose).
General Information on Using the Lidocaine Patch
Some considerations for people using the lidocaine patch include the following:
- The lidocaine patch is usually applied to the skin once a day. It can be worn for up to 12 hours only in each 24-hour period. Up to three patches can be applied at once.
- You can cut the patch into a smaller shape if desired, but make sure to do this before removing the sticky liner.
- Apply the patch to clean, dry, unbroken skin.
- After removing the patch, fold it in half with the sticky side together and dispose out of the reach of children and pets.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be used as prescribed.
- If you are unsure about anything related to your dosage or lidocaine patch dosing in general, please talk with your healthcare provider, nurse, or pharmacist.