Lidocaine

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Apr 17, 2023

Common Questions


Common Questions about Lidocaine


How many hours does a lidocaine patch last?

A lidocaine patch lasts for 8-12 hours. Do not wear the prescription transdermal 5% patch for more than 12 hours. If you are using the non-prescription 4% patch, do not use it for more than 8 hours per application.



Why only 12 hours for lidocaine patches?

Wearing lidocaine patches for more than 12 hours can cause skin irritation, redness, swelling, and discomfort. The prescription 5% patch should be used 12 hours on and 12 hours off.



Can I sleep with a lidocaine patch on?

You can sleep with a lidocaine patch but make sure you don’t exceed the recommended maximum hours. Also, do not use an electric blanket in the area of the patch as this can lead to increased absorption of the medicine and severe side effects.



Do lidocaine patches work immediately?

You should get some pain relief soon after applying a patch. However, it can take 2-4 weeks of using the patches every day to notice a difference in overall pain level.



Is lidocaine good for back pain?

Over-the-counter (non-prescription) 4% lidocaine patches can be used for local anesthesia and pain relief in areas of back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, or arm or leg pain.



What is the price of lidocaine without insurance?

Without insurance, lidocaine can be as high as $206.20, but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $22.70 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price, and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescription drugs—whether you have insurance or not.



What is the price of lidocaine with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on lidocaine—copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for lidocaine. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medicine, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.