EMLA cream

Healthwise
By Debby Golonka, MPH

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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
Medical Review:
Last Updated: 02/19/2008