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EMLA cream

EMLA (eutectic mixture of local anesthetics) is a topical cream that helps to numb the immediate area of the body where it is applied by blocking nerve signals.

Although less effective than other forms of anesthetic, the application of EMLA cream does not require an injection. The cream can be used to numb an area before a variety of procedures, such as on the penis before circumcision (although its safety for use on infants younger than 1 month of age is debated).

Author Debby Golonka, MPH
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD
- Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Peter Anderson, MD, FRCS(C)
- Pediatric Urology
Last Updated February 19, 2008

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 19, 2008
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