Numbing Gel for Hemo

[Grumpy-1]

I've had to switch from PD to hemo.  New fistula is being put in the first part of Sep.  I know I have read somewhere here about a numbing gel that you apply to the fistula site about an hour before dialysis and it helps with needle insertion.  Can anyone tell me what the name of that gel is?  is it a prescription med?  and any other details in using it?   Thanks Grumpy

[Sax-O-Trix]

"EMLA" is the name brand.  It contains 2.5% Lidocaine and 2.5% Prilocaine.  It is a cream.

[Riki]

I use Emla.  It's not presecription here, but I'd check with a pharmacist first to be sure.  I get it at my local grocery store's pharmacy.  It can be expensive, though.  I get a 5ml tube of it for around $10, but the bigger 30ml tube can be around $50.  The 5ml tube is fine, though.  I go through one about every 6 weeks.  You don't have to use a whole lot, just a small layer.  You don't rub it in or anything, so it needs to be covered with something.  I use tegaderm, but some people use saran wrap and tape

[YLGuy]

I have buttonholes.  I shower in the morning and then put the EMLA cream on right away.  I put a little dab on and then a tiny piece of Saran Wrap and tape.  Not only does the cream help numb the needle site it softens the scabs making them very easy to remove before cannulation.

[PatDowns]

"I use EMLA cream as well. I still have a stinging sensation, even with the buttonholes so the EMLA is for dual reasons. I've found it's the best option for softening scabs and making accessing my fistula more comfortable. I just apply a small amount to my buttonholes one hour prior to treatment (usually when I start my cartridge) and cover with two bandaids. When it's time for me to get on, I remove the bandaids, clean with a 4X4 then alcohol swabs and then use the pick in combo with tweezers. It's important to make sure your buttonhole is as clear as possible so that you don't accidentally push any scab material into your vein. My center taught me to pick the buttonhole until it's "cherry" red and fully open. The EMLA cream helps with any discomfort this might cause. Hope this helps!" - IHD Member PKDSTGV

From a discussion thread on bottoholes and scab removal.  Full thread:

http://ihatedialysis.com/forum/index.php?topic=28693.0

[Grumpy-1]

Thanks Everyone for you replies.  Will check about getting some.  A BIG  to all of you   Grumpy

[Jean]

  Emla, aka "chicken juice", LOL. If I am ever in that spot, and I know I will be, I am going to just bathe in it, LOL!!

[Riki]

you can get Emla patches too, but they have a crapload of cream in them, much more than what's needed.  I always thought, that if I ever came into a lot of money, I'd buy a case of the patches to give to the dialysis unit to give to people with new fistulas, so they can try it out

[drgirlfriend]

Good luck with the transition Grumpy!!

[thegrammalady]

EMLA cream is one of the items that dialysis clinics must provide for patients at no cost. Your doctor needs to write a prescription to Fresinus/Davita pharmacy and they will send it to you. Check with your doctor and social worker.

[Riki]

I'm in Canada, so I'd have to buy it anyway, prescription or not.  The only way I'd be able to get it paid for would be if it were prescribed by the doctor and I was on social assistance (which I'm not) or had private insurance (which I don't)

[frankswife]

grammalady, I see where you posted that the center has to provide the numbing cream. Is it just Davita/Fresenius centers or all centers? My husbands center is run by a small rural hospital and I'm paying around $20 a month for his cream. I know it's not much compared to what others may pay, but with him being on SSDI I'm just trying to cut costs wherever I can!

[Krisna]

Thanks!  I've been wondering what it was called too!  I am going to talk to my doctor about getting it to try!  My fistula is so sensitive!  My old (first) one had so much scar tissue built up that it barely hurt when they injected the lidocaine.  The current one makes me wanna jump out of my skin!

[Krisna]

EMLA cream is available on Amazon.com for $33.45 (U.S.) for 30 g.  They also have other creams listed.  I'm gonna check around before I get it.  I also want to see if my insurance will pay for it.

[Grumpy-1]

Thanks again everyone for your replies.  I will be checking with the clinic and Dr to get a prescription verse having to buy it.  Grumpy