Introduction to Lignocaine Hydrochloride Gel IP
Lignocaine Hydrochloride Gel IP — also known as Lidocaine Gel — is a topical local anesthetic formulation widely used in clinical practice to provide temporary numbness and pain relief. The “IP” designation indicates that the product meets standards outlined in the Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP), ensuring quality, purity, and consistent strength in accordance with Indian drug regulatory requirements.
The active ingredient, Lignocaine (also called Lidocaine), belongs to the amide class of local anesthetics. It acts by blocking nerve impulse transmission, particularly by inhibiting sodium ion channels in nerve cell membranes. This interrupts the pain signal from the application site to the brain, leading to temporary loss of sensation at that specific area.
Pharmacological Mechanism of Action
When applied topically to the skin or mucous membrane, lignocaine:
Penetrates locally to reach nerve endings.
Inhibits voltage-gated sodium channels, preventing the initiation and conduction of pain signals.
Produces a rapid onset of anesthetic effect, usually within a few minutes.
The duration of action varies with site of application, concentration (commonly 2%), and amount applied.
This mechanism is the same whether lignocaine is used in gel, cream, or jelly form — what changes is the site and purpose of application.
Key Clinical and Topical Uses of Lignocaine Hydrochloride Gel IP
Lignocaine Hydrochloride Gel IP is highly versatile and used in many medical contexts. Here’s a detailed look at its major applications:
1. Local Anesthesia for Medical Procedures
Used as a topical anesthetic before minor surgical procedures, including incision or biopsy of superficial tissues.
Numbs mucous membranes before instrumentation such as endoscopy, catheterization, intubation, or insertion of urinary devices.
Applied to oropharyngeal mucosa to reduce gag reflex or discomfort during dental and ENT procedures.
2. Pain Relief in Anal and Rectal Conditions
Provides temporary relief in conditions such as haemorrhoids (piles), anal fissures, and perianal itching by numbing nerve endings.
Helps reduce burning sensations and irritation in the anal region.
3. Dermatological Pain and Itching
Treats symptoms from minor skin conditions — such as insect bites, minor burns, scrapes, minor cuts, and eczema — by reducing discomfort and itching.
Useful in dermatological settings to calm painful itching or localized reactions.
4. Dental and Oral Use
Provides pain relief for mouth ulcers, sore gums, and irritation due to braces or denture contact.
Often chosen in dental offices to pre-numb gums prior to injections or cleaning.
5. Urological Indications
Used prior to catheter insertion or to alleviate pain related to urethral inflammation.
Helps reduce discomfort during urodynamic studies or bladder instrumentation.
6. Minor Burns and Irritations
Lignocaine gel, by numbing pain receptors, can help manage mild burns or heat-related skin damage before healing.
Also used for other minor topical irritations where pain reduction supports comfort.
Dosage and Application Guidelines
Always follow prescribing instructions or consult a healthcare provider; general guidance includes:
Clean and dry the affected area before application.
Apply a thin layer of gel over the targeted surface.
Avoid ingestion — products are for external use unless directed for specific mucosal application.
Do not cover the treated area with heat or occlusive dressings unless recommended.
Frequency and duration depend on indication — many uses are “as needed,” while procedural uses follow set protocols.
Precautions, Side Effects, and Safety
While generally safe when used correctly, lignocaine gel can cause side effects in some people:
Common Minor Effects
Temporary burning or stinging on application
Mild redness, itching, or irritation
Numbness beyond intended area
These effects typically resolve as the anesthetic effect wanes.
Rare but Important Considerations
Allergic reactions including rash or swelling (seek medical help if severe)
Systemic effects if overused, applied over large areas, or to broken skin (rare)
Avoid use in individuals allergic to lignocaine or amide anesthetics
Use caution in pregnancy and breastfeeding under medical advice
Children should use only with explicit clinical guidance.
Regulatory and Pharmacopoeial Standards
The Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) ensures that lignocaine gel meets quality standards, including purity, strength, and labeling. Products marked “Gel IP” carry this verified status for use within India.
Dermapolis — A Derma Pharma Company
Dermapolis is an Indian dermatology-focused pharmaceutical franchise and manufacturing company that specializes in high-quality derma products and skincare formulations. They are known in the Indian market as a Derma PCD (Propaganda Cum Distribution) pharma company, offering a range of products including creams, lotions, sunscreens, and other dermatological medicines.
While Dermapolis’s publicly listed catalog does not explicitly list Lignocaine Hydrochloride Gel on its website, many derma pharma companies like Dermapolis often include topical analgesics, anesthetics, or related supportive products in their broader portfolios. Their focus on skin care and topical treatments means they may supply or could potentially develop gels for pain, itching, or pre-procedure topical numbing, consistent with dermatological practice.
Dermapolis also offers business and franchise opportunities in the dermatology segment, supporting distribution and marketing of specialized topical formulations for various skin and mucosal conditions across India and beyond.
Conclusion
Lignocaine Hydrochloride Gel IP remains one of the most widely utilized topical anesthetics in medicine, valued for its rapid, effective, and targeted pain-blocking properties across diverse clinical and skin-related uses. From procedural anesthesia to management of minor pain, itching, or discomfort, its versatility makes it essential in medical practice.

