United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

I know this question has been brought up before but what is the name of the cream that numbs the site for shots? My son is due for his shots and I need to request this from his Doctor. Is this prescription only? Thanks!!

EMLA

prescription only

you need to find out from the doctor where exactly the shots will be so that you numb the right spot

you put a glop of it on that area and cover with a large TEGADERM bandage.... and wait for one hour.

Plan it in advance so that it'll be 'ready' when it's time for the shots.

it's fantastic stuff!!
-francine

Emla cream does do a great job as far as the stick of the needle is concerned. Unfortunately the child still feels the fluid being injected. It can be purchased over the counter in Ontario Canada. You don't need a prescription for it.
Good luck!

Eutectic Mixture of Local Anesthetics

It is also available as a disc now!

I contacted our Pediatrician yesterday and the nurse informed me that they use some type of spray that freezes/numbs there area for the shots. She also said that although this numbs the area, they can still feel the fluid being injected.

Anyway, I still requested a prescription for EMLA but the Pediatrician rejected it claiming that the numbing spray that they have in the office is just as good. Should I be upset or just trust that the spray is good enough? I little boy is four and I just don't want him to be traumatized by the pain of shots because I myself remember going through this. Thanks for any input.

Hi Sona,

I don't know if your son can handle it, but the kids at the cancer clinic put ice packs on the injection sights before going in. These kids and my son were one of them. They had to get two needles in their thighs at the same time every other day for one month. If there is one thing I've learned when dealing with small children, it's never lie to them or you will break their trust. If you feel you must lie, then simply tell them you don't know and let the doctor or nurse take it from there. Good luck.

Patty

I think the spray works better than the EMLA. With the EMLA, the kids get to look at the spot and worry for an hour about the shot. The pain is mostly emotional worry anyway. With the spray, it numbs, the injection is done and it's over. That's my opinion on the matter.

Stephanie had the numbing cream, approximately 15 minutes before she had her IV put in her hand. She didn't even notice it. The cream is wonderful.