Eutectic mixture of local anaesthetics (EMLA)

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Eutectic mixture - melting point of the mixture is lower than the melting points of the individual component

EMLA (eutectic mixture of local anaesthetics)

2.5% of lidocaine and 2.5% prilocaine

pH 9.6 (adjuected by NaOH)

Melting point of 16C

Oil-based (cream) --> Allows higher concentration of anaesthetics

Duration = 2 hours

Skin harvesting requires 2 hours application

45 min application for venipuncture, lumbar puncture

Methaemoglobin level increase in children <3 years due to foetal erythrocyte deficient in methaemoglobin reductase

Not for wound or mucous membranes

Causes vasoconstriction