Anestol Ointment 5% (30 g)

Anestol Ointment 5% (30 g) is a topical lidocaine medicine used to numb skin and mucous membranes for short-term local pain relief. Each 30 g tube contains lidocaine 5% in ointment form, which is a local anesthetic. It is used to reduce pain, burning, itching, or discomfort from minor skin or anal/rectal irritation and certain minor procedures when a prescriber recommends it. Anestol Ointment 5% (30 g) works only where it is applied and is not meant to treat the cause of the problem.

How it works: Lidocaine blocks sodium channels in nerve endings, which stops pain signals from traveling to the brain. In ointment form, Anestol Ointment 5% (30 g) delivers that numbing effect directly to the treated area without affecting the whole body much when used correctly.

This 5% ointment is a relatively high-strength lidocaine product, so it is usually chosen when a doctor wants stronger local numbing than lower-strength options. Because there are no other strengths or forms listed for this brand, Anestol Ointment 5% (30 g) should be used only as directed and not as a routine over-the-counter self-treatment. Its thicker ointment base can stay on the skin longer than a spray or liquid, which may be helpful for sustained local relief.

• Local relief of pain or burning
• Itching or irritation of skin or mucous membranes
• Minor anal or rectal discomfort
• Temporary numbness before a minor procedure
• Local pain relief for irritated areas as prescribed

• Use only on the exact area your doctor or label instructs.
• Apply a thin layer of Anestol Ointment 5% (30 g) with clean hands or a clean applicator.
• Do not apply to large areas, broken skin, or deep wounds unless your clinician tells you to.
• Do not use more often or in a larger amount than prescribed; this product is a 5% strength ointment.
• Wash your hands after applying, unless the hands are the treated area.
• Avoid covering the area with airtight dressings unless specifically directed by your prescriber.

Anestol Ointment 5% (30 g) provides lidocaine 5% in each tube, so it is a stronger topical anesthetic than lower-percentage products. The amount and frequency depend on the treated area, your age, and the reason for use; your doctor decides how much to apply and how often. Do not exceed the maximum daily amount given by your prescriber, because too much lidocaine from a 5% ointment can be absorbed into the body and cause serious side effects.

Do not change your dose or stop the medicine without speaking to your doctor.

Common side effects of Lidocaine may include:

• Mild burning or stinging where applied
• Redness or irritation at the application site
• Temporary numbness or tingling
• Itching or rash
• Swelling of the treated area
• Dizziness or drowsiness if too much is absorbed

• Use extra caution with this 5% strength because higher-strength lidocaine can be absorbed more easily if too much is used.
• Do not apply near the eyes, inside the mouth, or on very large areas unless told to do so.
• Avoid using on broken, infected, or severely inflamed skin unless a clinician specifically approves it.
• Tell your doctor if you have heart disease, liver disease, or a history of abnormal heart rhythm.
• Do not use other lidocaine-containing products at the same time unless your prescriber says it is safe.
• Do not drive or operate machinery if you feel dizzy, sleepy, or lightheaded after use.
• Seek urgent help if numbness spreads beyond the treated area or you develop ringing in the ears, blurred vision, or a metallic taste.

• Other lidocaine or local anesthetic products
• Antiarrhythmic medicines such as mexiletine or amiodarone
• Beta-blockers such as propranolol, which may affect lidocaine handling in the body
• Cimetidine, which can raise lidocaine levels
• Alcohol or sedatives, which can worsen dizziness or drowsiness

Store Anestol Ointment 5% (30 g) at room temperature, tightly closed, and keep it away from heat and direct light.