[mike2niner4 (OP)]

Hey,

I remember when i went to the hospital a couple of years ago, they used this amazing white cream on my hands and other parts of the body which made the area it covered numb (i wish i could have some at home!!) []

How does this work?

Thanks, Mike

[Chemistry4me]

What is AMETOP Gel?
Topical anaesthetic gel which contains amethocaine (the active ingredient), which is applied to the skin. Ametop Gel (tetracaine) is a local anesthetic that produces temporary numbness when applied to the skin 30-45 minutes prior to the procedure. The gel is usually applied with a dressing over the top of it to hold the gel in place. It can be used prior to having blood taken or other procedures that require temporary numbing.

How does AMETOP Gel work?
The amethocaine stops the nerve cells from sending pain messages to the brain.

http://www.netpharmacy.co.nz/65/group/181/page/1/style/Ametop/Ametop+Gel+15g

[Chemistry4me]

What is EMLA® Cream?
This is a cream that contains the two local anaesthetics called lidocaine and prilocaine.

What is EMLA® Cream used for?
EMLA Cream is used before procedures such as injections, skin grafts or other minor procedures to reduce the pain experienced (see anaesthesia and pain control.)

EMLA Cream is suitable for adults and children over 1 year and is also available for babies in some markets.

How does EMLA® Cream work?
EMLA Cream is applied to your skin prior to the procedure and the two local anaesthetics, lidocaine and prilocaine, produce skin numbness.

http://www.patienthealthinternational.com/astrazeneca-medicines/?itemId=1823296