Ametop vs Emla: Uses, Application and Safety for Needles and Tattoos

Worried about the discomfort of an upcoming vaccination or blood test? Numbing creams and gels can help reduce pain when a needle enters the skin, making certain procedures more comfortable.

Ametop 4% Gel and Emla 5% Cream are two topical anaesthetics used before certain medical procedures. They differ in their active ingredients, application times and authorised uses, so the right option depends on the procedure and individual suitability. 

What Are Numbing Creams and How Do They Work?

Numbing creams and gels are topical anaesthetics applied to the skin to reduce pain in a specific area. They temporarily prevent nearby nerves from transmitting pain signals, making the treated skin less sensitive to needle insertion. 

These products do not provide complete anaesthesia. You may still feel pressure, movement or some discomfort even when the product has worked as intended.

Ametop vs Emla: What's the Difference? 

Ametop and Emla are topical anaesthetics used before certain medical procedures. Both reduce skin sensitivity, but their active ingredients, formulations and application requirements differ.

Ametop 4% Gel

Ametop 4% Gel contains tetracaine and is authorised in Ireland for use before venepuncture, venous cannulation and non-ablative dermal laser procedures.

It is supplied in single-use tubes. The gel is applied to the intended area without rubbing it in and covered with a plastic film dressing.

As a precaution, Ametop should preferably be avoided during pregnancy. It is not recommended while breastfeeding because it is not known whether tetracaine or its metabolites pass into breast milk.

Emla 5% Cream

Emla 5% Cream combines two local anaesthetics, lidocaine and prilocaine. It is used before needle insertion, blood sampling and certain superficial surgical procedures.

Unlike Ametop, Emla generally requires a longer preparation period. For minor procedures involving intact skin, including needle insertion, the recommended application time for adults can range from 1–5 hours, depending on the procedure. It is applied as a thick layer under an occlusive dressing. 

Ametop vs Emla: Key Differences

Application times and duration vary according to the product, procedure and application site. Always follow the current product leaflet.

Which Is Better: Ametop or Emla?

Neither product is universally better. Ametop has a shorter application time for certain needle procedures, while Emla has different authorised uses and application requirements. The appropriate choice depends on the procedure and individual suitability. Ask a pharmacist which option may be appropriate.

When Should You Apply Numbing Cream Before a Needle or Blood Test?

Before using a numbing product, check where the needle will be inserted and allow enough time for the anaesthetic to work. The application site and preparation time depend on the procedure and the product.

Before Vaccinations, Blood Tests and Cannula Insertion

Topical anaesthetics may help reduce discomfort during needle insertion, but the correct application site varies by procedure. 

For vaccinations, ask your healthcare professional whether a topical anaesthetic is suitable for the injection and which product may be appropriate. The authorised uses of Ametop and Emla differ, so do not assume that both can be used for every type of injection.

For blood tests, the sample is often taken from a vein in the arm, while a cannula may be inserted into the hand or arm.

How Should You Apply Numbing Cream?

Correct application is important for both effectiveness and safety.

• Check the instructions: Follow the product leaflet for the recommended amount, application time, age restrictions and suitable application areas.

• Use intact skin: Apply only to the recommended area. Do not use on broken, irritated or damaged skin unless specifically authorised.

• Cover the area: Follow the product-specific instructions for covering the application area and use the recommended dressing.

• Remove before the procedure: Remove the product and dressing at the recommended time so the healthcare professional can clean and prepare the skin before needle insertion.

Never use more than the recommended amount or leave the product on longer than directed. Excessive application can increase the risk of side effects.

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Numbing Creams?

Ametop commonly causes temporary redness at the application site. Mild swelling and itching can also occur, while blistering is very rare. Emla may cause temporary redness, paleness, swelling, itching or a burning sensation where it is applied.

Rarely, more serious reactions can occur. Emla can cause methaemoglobinaemia, which affects the blood's ability to carry oxygen. Stop using the product and seek medical advice if you experience an unusual or concerning reaction.

Can Children Use Numbing Creams Before Vaccinations and Blood Tests?

Numbing creams may help reduce needle-related discomfort in children, but not every product is suitable for every age. Ametop and Emla have different age restrictions and safety precautions that parents should understand before use.

Ametop for Children

Ametop 4% Gel may be used in children for its authorised procedures, subject to age-specific instructions. It must not be used in full-term infants under one month old or in premature infants before one month after their expected delivery date (44 weeks' gestation).

The permitted amount also varies with age. Parents should follow the product leaflet and check with a pharmacist before using Ametop on a child.

Emla for Children

Emla 5% Cream has age-specific instructions for the amount used, application area and application time. These must be followed carefully, particularly in infants.

Prilocaine can cause methaemoglobinaemia, a condition that affects the blood's ability to carry oxygen. Emla should not be used in children under 12 months who are being treated with medicines that can cause this condition. Emla must not be used in premature newborn infants below 37 weeks' gestation. In newborns and infants under three months, a temporary and usually clinically insignificant increase in methaemoglobin levels can occur for up to 12 hours after application.

Always check the current product leaflet and ask a pharmacist or healthcare professional before using Emla on a child.

Helping Children Prepare for Needle Procedures

Alongside appropriate pain relief, reassurance can make vaccinations and blood tests less stressful. Explain the procedure in simple language, bring a favourite toy or comfort item and use gentle distraction to help your child feel more at ease.

Can You Use Numbing Cream Before a Tattoo?

Some people consider numbing products before getting a tattoo to reduce discomfort. However, products intended for medical procedures are not automatically suitable for tattooing. Ametop and Emla are not authorised specifically for tattoo use, so their suitability should not be assumed.

Do Tattoo Studios Allow Numbing Cream?

Tattoo studio policies vary. Some artists accept certain numbing products, while others prefer clients not to apply anything before an appointment. 

Always check with your tattoo artist before using a numbing product.

What Should You Know About Tattoo Aftercare?

Follow your tattoo artist's aftercare instructions while the skin heals. If you are looking for a dedicated aftercare product, you can explore Bepanthen Tattoo Care Ointment.

• Keep the area clean: Wash your hands before touching the tattoo and follow the recommended cleaning routine.

• Protect the healing skin: Avoid picking or scratching it, and follow your artist's advice about swimming and sun exposure.

Some redness and tenderness can occur during healing. However, worsening pain, spreading redness, increasing swelling, pus or fever may indicate an infection and should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Do not apply numbing products to freshly tattooed or damaged skin unless advised by a healthcare professional. Absorption may increase when the skin barrier is damaged.

Final Thoughts

Numbing creams can help reduce discomfort during certain needle procedures, but Ametop and Emla differ in their uses, application requirements and safety precautions.

If you are considering either product before a vaccination, blood test or cannula insertion, speak to your pharmacist about its suitability. For tattoos, check with your artist and seek professional advice before using a numbing product.