Description
Overview
How does Lanacane Medicated Cream (30g) biologically block pain signals? Lanacane Medicated Cream contains benzocaine as its primary active pharmaceutical ingredient. Benzocaine is a local anaesthetic belonging to the ester group. Physiologically, the sensation of itching (pruritus) and pain is transmitted from the skin to the brain via peripheral nerve fibres. When Lanacane Medicated Cream is applied to the affected area, the benzocaine penetrates the neuronal membrane. Once inside, it binds to specific receptors on the voltage-gated sodium channels. By physically blocking these channels, Lanacane Medicated Cream prevents the influx of sodium ions into the nerve cell. This influx is essential for the depolarisation of the membrane, which is the electrical “spark” that creates a nerve impulse. By halting this depolarisation, Lanacane Medicated Cream effectively stops the nerve from sending the signal of “itch” or “pain” to the brain, resulting in a temporary numbing sensation that provides immediate relief.
What is the role of chlorothymol in Lanacane Medicated Cream (30g)? In addition to pain relief, Lanacane Medicated Cream is formulated with chlorothymol, an antibacterial agent. When the skin is itchy, the natural reflex is to scratch. This mechanical action often creates microscopic tears or abrasions in the stratum corneum (the outer layer of skin), creating a pathway for opportunistic bacteria to enter and cause infection. Chlorothymol possesses antiseptic properties that work to sanitise the area of application. By reducing the bacterial load on the skin’s surface, Lanacane Medicated Cream helps to prevent secondary infections in insect bites, stings, or chafed skin, ensuring the wound environment remains clean for optimal healing.
How does Lanacane Medicated Cream (30g) address the itch-scratch cycle? The “itch-scratch cycle” is a self-perpetuating mechanism where scratching releases inflammatory mediators like histamine, which in turn causes more itching. Lanacane Medicated Cream interrupts this cycle at the source. By chemically numbing the nerve endings, Lanacane Medicated Cream removes the urge to scratch. Simultaneously, the cream base of Lanacane Medicated Cream acts as an emollient. It forms a protective, moisturising layer over the raw, irritated skin. This hydration soothes the inflammation and reduces the surface friction that can exacerbate conditions like chafing, allowing the skin to repair itself without further mechanical trauma.
Who Is It For
Who is Lanacane Medicated Cream (30g) suitable for? Lanacane Medicated Cream is suitable for adults and children aged 12 years and over. Lanacane Medicated Cream is specifically designed for individuals suffering from localised skin irritation, including insect bites, nettle stings, and minor burns. Lanacane Medicated Cream is an effective solution for external vaginal itching or anal itching (haemorrhoids) where a local anaesthetic is required to numb acute discomfort. Lanacane Medicated Cream is widely used by people suffering from chafing caused by sports or tight clothing.
Usage Instructions
How to apply Lanacane Medicated Cream (30g) correctly? Lanacane Medicated Cream is for external topical use only.
Preparation: The user should wash their hands thoroughly before application to avoid introducing bacteria to the irritated skin.
Application: Squeeze a small amount of Lanacane Medicated Cream onto the fingertip. Gently smooth the cream onto the affected area.
Massage: Rub Lanacane Medicated Cream in gently until it disappears or leaves a thin protective film.
Frequency: Lanacane Medicated Cream can be applied as needed to relieve symptoms, typically up to 3 or 4 times a day.
Duration: Lanacane Medicated Cream is intended for short-term use. If symptoms persist for more than one week, medical advice should be sought.
Can Lanacane Medicated Cream (30g) be used on large areas? Lanacane Medicated Cream should be applied only to small, localised areas of skin. Applying local anaesthetics like benzocaine to large surface areas can lead to excessive absorption into the bloodstream, which may cause systemic side effects.
Warnings
When must Lanacane Medicated Cream (30g) not be used? Lanacane Medicated Cream must not be used on children under 12 years of age. Lanacane Medicated Cream must not be applied to large areas of the body, raw blistering surfaces, or deep puncture wounds. Lanacane Medicated Cream must not be used by patients who are allergic to benzocaine, other ester-type anaesthetics, or any of the excipients. Lanacane Medicated Cream must not be used in the eyes. Lanacane Medicated Cream is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding without consulting a doctor, as the safety of benzocaine in these groups has not been fully established.
Alternatives
Common alternatives to Lanacane Medicated Cream (30g)? If Lanacane Medicated Cream is not suitable due to allergy or age restrictions, common alternatives include:
Eurax Cream (Crotamiton): A non-anaesthetic anti-itch cream that provides relief for 6 to 10 hours and is suitable for children aged 3 years and over.
Anthisan Bite & Sting Cream: Contains mepyramine maleate, a topical antihistamine that blocks the allergic reaction caused by insect bites rather than just numbing the nerves like Lanacane Medicated Cream.
Germolene Antiseptic Cream: Contains phenol (a mild local anaesthetic) and chlorhexidine (antiseptic), offering a similar dual action to Lanacane Medicated Cream but with different active ingredients.
Hydrocortisone Cream 1%: A mild steroid cream that reduces inflammation and swelling to treat the itch, suitable for eczema and bites where Lanacane Medicated Cream might not address the swelling.
