The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that using great amounts of skin-numbing lotions, creams and gels that are commonly used in cosmetic and medical procedures can bring about some hazardous side effects including irregular heart rhythm and seizures.
The agency informed on Tuesday that 2 deaths have been associated with the use of great amounts of these topical anaesthetics, CBC News reported. Two women, aged 22 and 25, died after applying the products on their legs after laser removal of hair.
The FDA informed that the women "wrapped their legs in plastic wrap, exactly as they were instructed, to increase the numbing effect of the cream. Both women had seizures, fell into comas, and consequently died of the toxic effects of the anaesthetic medications."
Moreover, the agency reported that it has received reports of serious side effects such as irregular heartbeats and slowing or stopping of breathing in people who have tried using the topical anaesthetics, CBC News informed.
The FDA suggests that patients should use a topical anaesthetic approved by the FDA; use a topical anaesthetic containing as low amount of anaesthetic medication as possible that will alleviate pain; ask for precise instructions from their healthcare providers on how to safely use the topical anaesthetic; consult their physicians about using reduced doses of approved topical anaesthetics or about available alternatives.
