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Topical anesthetic

University of Campinas, Brazil · FDA-approved active Small molecule ✓ Verified May 2026

Topical anesthetic is a Local anesthetic Small molecule drug developed by University of Campinas, Brazil. It is currently FDA-approved for Topical pain relief and local anesthesia for minor skin procedures, Surface anesthesia for minor wounds and abrasions. Also known as: Topical Formulation, treatment, Centrix LolliCaine 2% xylocaine with 20% benzocaine, EMLA® (Eutectic Mixture of Local Anesthetics).

Topical anesthetics block sodium channels in nerve fibers to prevent pain signal transmission at the site of application.

Topical anesthetics are local anesthetics used to numb the surface of a body part, available in various forms such as creams, ointments, aerosols, sprays, lotions, and jellies. They can be used to numb areas such as the skin, the front of the eyeball, the inside of the nose, ear, or throat, the anus, and the genital area.

At a glance

Generic nameTopical anesthetic
Also known asTopical Formulation, treatment, Centrix LolliCaine 2% xylocaine with 20% benzocaine, EMLA® (Eutectic Mixture of Local Anesthetics)
SponsorUniversity of Campinas, Brazil
Drug classLocal anesthetic
TargetVoltage-gated sodium channels
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaPain management / Dermatology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

These agents work by inhibiting voltage-gated sodium channels in peripheral nerves, preventing depolarization and action potential propagation. This results in local numbing of the skin or mucous membranes where applied, without systemic effects. Common topical anesthetics include lidocaine, benzocaine, and prilocaine.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.

SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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Frequently asked questions about Topical anesthetic

What is Topical anesthetic?

Topical anesthetic is a Local anesthetic drug developed by University of Campinas, Brazil, indicated for Topical pain relief and local anesthesia for minor skin procedures, Surface anesthesia for minor wounds and abrasions.

How does Topical anesthetic work?

Topical anesthetics block sodium channels in nerve fibers to prevent pain signal transmission at the site of application.

What is Topical anesthetic used for?

Topical anesthetic is indicated for Topical pain relief and local anesthesia for minor skin procedures, Surface anesthesia for minor wounds and abrasions.

Who makes Topical anesthetic?

Topical anesthetic is developed and marketed by University of Campinas, Brazil (see full University of Campinas, Brazil pipeline at /company/university-of-campinas-brazil).

Is Topical anesthetic also known as anything else?

Topical anesthetic is also known as Topical Formulation, treatment, Centrix LolliCaine 2% xylocaine with 20% benzocaine, EMLA® (Eutectic Mixture of Local Anesthetics).

What drug class is Topical anesthetic in?

Topical anesthetic belongs to the Local anesthetic class. See all Local anesthetic drugs at /class/local-anesthetic.

What development phase is Topical anesthetic in?

Topical anesthetic is FDA-approved (marketed).

What are the side effects of Topical anesthetic?

Common side effects of Topical anesthetic include Local skin irritation or erythema, Allergic contact dermatitis, Systemic toxicity (if absorbed in large quantities).

What does Topical anesthetic target?

Topical anesthetic targets Voltage-gated sodium channels and is a Local anesthetic.

Related

Primary sources · FDA · ClinicalTrials.gov · EMA · SEC EDGAR · ChEMBL · Wikidata · full sourcing