Is Lidocaine Safe? Comparing 4% vs 5% Over the Counter
Lidocaine is one of the most widely used topical anesthetics available today. Found in everything from dental procedures to over-the-counter pain relief creams, it’s often a go-to ingredient for temporary relief from nerve pain, arthritis, and muscle aches. But as with any medication, many people wonder: Is lidocaine safe? And more specifically, why is 5% lidocaine only approved for anorectal use?
At Aromalief x Workvie, we believe in empowering our customers with the knowledge they need to make informed choices about the products they buy. Here’s a closer look at lidocaine’s safety, how it works, and why certain concentrations matter.
How Does Lidocaine Work?
Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that works by blocking nerve signals in your body. When applied topically to the skin, it helps numb the area and reduce pain sensations, which can provide relief for conditions like arthritis, back pain, and nerve discomfort. It doesn’t treat the underlying cause of pain, but it offers temporary comfort that can make daily life more manageable.
Is Lidocaine Safe?
Yes—when used as directed, lidocaine is generally safe and effective for topical use. The FDA has established guidelines for how lidocaine should be formulated and applied. For over-the-counter (OTC) topical creams, roll-ons, and patches, the maximum allowable strength is 4% lidocaine.
This concentration is considered safe for broad application on intact skin (i.e., not broken or irritated). Products like our Workvie Lidocaine Roll-On, which contains 4% lidocaine HCL and 1% menthol, are designed to provide quick, targeted relief without the risk of overexposure when used correctly.
However, excessive use or using under occlusion (such as with plastic wrap) can increase absorption and potentially lead to lidocaine toxicity. Symptoms of overuse can include dizziness, irregular heartbeat, or numbness beyond the area of application. That’s why it’s essential to always follow product instructions and talk to your healthcare provider if you have underlying conditions or are taking other medications.
How come some 5% Lidocaine Creams are sold over the counter?
You may have seen some products on the market that advertise 5% lidocaine and wondered why these aren’t sold for general muscle or joint pain relief. That’s because 5% lidocaine is only FDA-approved for anorectal use, such as for hemorrhoid discomfort.
Why the limitation? The skin in the anorectal area is very different from the skin on your arms, legs, or back. It’s more vascular (meaning it absorbs substances more quickly into the bloodstream), and it often needs stronger relief in smaller, highly sensitive areas. Because of this targeted need and limited application area, the FDA allows the higher concentration—but only for that purpose.
Using 5% lidocaine for full-body application or on larger areas is not FDA-approved and may pose risks of systemic absorption and side effects.
Choose Safe, Trusted Relief
At Aromalief and Workvie, we prioritize safety and transparency. Our Workvie Lidocaine Roll-On contains the FDA-approved maximum of 4% lidocaine for over-the-counter use, combined with nutrients like Glucosamine and MSM to support joint health and comfort.
When used responsibly, lidocaine can be a powerful tool in your pain management toolkit. Always read the label, apply to clean, intact skin, and stick to the recommended dosage.
Want to learn more about our Workvie Lidocaine Roll On? Shop Special Offer
Aromalief is a family-owned business that started in 2017 to help our founder's mom find a more natural way to relieve pain.
This blog post is not medical advice and does not replace the advice of a medical professional.
