What Are They?

These drugs are given by injection to cause loss of sensation. They are used by a medical professional, usually before and during surgery.

Active Ingredients (Common Brands)
Lidocaine (Dilocaine) and prilocaine (Citanest)

Common Side Effects
Skin rash, hives, itching, and allergic reactions

Safe Use
these drugs are typically used during dental surgery. if the numbness and tingling in your mouth doesn’t go away within a few hours or you can’t open your mouth, call your dentist.

Hidden Benefits
None

Not Recommended For
Those who have had adverse reactions to local anesthetics or epinephrine in the past or who are allergic to sulfites or PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid). Typical adverse reactions include very high fever, fast and irregular heartbeat, acute asthma attacks, muscle spasms, and breathing problems.

Special Hints
Take care with any part of your body that has been numbed by an injection. Since you won’t feel pain in that area, it’s very easy to hurt your self.