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PLIAGLIS

Generic: Lidocaine and Tetracaine

Verified·Apr 23, 2026
NDC
71085-100
Route
TOPICAL
ICD-10 indication
G89.18

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About PLIAGLIS

What is this medication? Pliaglis is a prescription topical anesthetic cream that contains a combination of lidocaine and tetracaine. It is primarily used to provide local numbing on intact skin before a patient undergoes superficial dermatological procedures. When applied, the cream eventually forms a thin film that is peeled away, leaving the area desensitized to pain.

The medication is commonly utilized for procedures such as laser hair removal, dermal filler injections, and various types of laser skin treatments. By temporarily blocking pain signals in the skin, it helps patients experience less discomfort during these clinical applications. It is intended for use only by or under the direction of a healthcare professional to ensure safety and effectiveness.

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Prescribing information

From the FDA-approved label for PLIAGLIS. Official source: DailyMed (NLM) · Label effective Mar 9, 2026

Indications and usage
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE PLIAGLIS is indicated for use on intact skin in adults to provide topical local analgesia for superficial dermatological procedures such as dermal filler injection, pulsed dye laser therapy, facial laser resurfacing, and laser-assisted tattoo removal. PLIAGLIS is a combination of lidocaine, an amide local anesthetic, and tetracaine, an ester local anesthetic, indicated for use on intact skin in adults to provide topical local analgesia for superficial dermatological procedures such as dermal filler injection, pulsed dye laser therapy, facial laser resurfacing, and laser-assisted tattoo removal. ( 1 )
Dosage and administration
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Apply only to intact skin. ( 2.1 ) Do not exceed the recommended dose of drug or duration of application. ( 2.1 ) Recommended duration of application ( 2.2 ): For dermal filler injection ablative laser facial resurfacing, or pulsed-dye laser therapy 20-30 minutes prior to procedure For superficial dermatological procedures such as laserassisted tattoo removal 60 minutes prior to procedure See Full Prescribing Information for amount to apply based upon treatment site surface area. ( 2.3 ) 2.1 Important Dosage and Administration Instructions For use in adults only. PLIAGLIS should only be applied to intact skin. PLIAGLIS should not be applied to a procedure site after the procedure has been performed. Remove PLIAGLIS if skin irritation or a burning sensation occurs during application. In order to minimize the risk of systemic toxicity, do not exceed the recommended amount of drug to apply or the duration of the application [see Overdosage (10) ] . Avoid eye and lip contact with PLIAGLIS. Wash hands after handling PLIAGLIS. Upon removal from the treatment site, discard the used PLIAGLIS in a location that is out of the reach of children and pets. Access to PLIAGLIS by children or pets should be prevented during usage and storage of the product [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Use only as directed. 2.2 Recommended Dosing Duration For superficial dermatological procedures, such as dermal filler injection, non-ablative laser facial resurfacing, or pulsed-dye laser therapy, apply PLIAGLIS to intact skin for 20 to 30 minutes prior to the procedure. See Table 1 for instructions on the amount to apply. For superficial dermatological procedures, such as laser-assisted tattoo removal, apply PLIAGLIS to intact skin for 60 minutes prior to the procedure. See Table 1 for instructions on the amount to apply. 2.3 Recommended Dosage The dose of PLIAGLIS that provides effective local dermal analgesia depends on the duration of the application. Although not specifically studied, a shorter duration of application may result in a less complete dermal analgesia or a shorter duration of adequate dermal analgesia. Determine the amount of drug to apply The amount (length) of PLIAGLIS that should be dispensed is determined by the size of the area to be treated (see Table 1 ). Using the ruler on the applicator included in the carton, squeeze out and measure the amount of PLIAGLIS that approximates the amount required to achieve proper coverage. Spread PLIAGLIS evenly and thinly (approximately 1 mm or the thickness of a dime) across the treatment area using a flat-surfaced tool such as a metal spatula or tongue depressor. After waiting the required application time, remove the PLIAGLIS by grasping a free-edge with your fingers and pulling it away from the skin. Table 1. Amount of PLIAGLIS According to Treatment Site Surface Area Surface Area of Treatment Site (inch 2 ) Length of PLIAGLIS for 1 mm Thickness (inch) Weight of PLIAGLIS Dispensed (g) 2 1 1 3 2 3 6 5 5 12 9 11 16 12 13 23 18 20 31 24 26 39 30 33 47 36 40 54 42 46 62 48 53
Contraindications
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS PLIAGLIS is contraindicated in patients with a known history of sensitivity to lidocaine or tetracaine, local anesthetics of the amide or ester type, or to any other component of the product [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ]. PLIAGLIS is contraindicated in patients with para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) hypersensitivity. Known history of sensitivity to lidocaine or tetracaine, or local anesthetics of the amide or ester type. ( 4 ) Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) hypersensitivity. ( 4 )
Warnings and precautions
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Methemoglobinemia : Cases of methemoglobinemia have been reported in association with local anesthetic use. ( 5.1 ) Overexposure : To avoid overexposure that could lead to adverse effects, do not use for longer duration or over larger surface areas than recommended. ( 5.2 ) consider total amount of local anesthetics absorbed from all formulations. ( 5.2 ) do not apply to mucous membranes or broken or inflamed skin. ( 5.2 ) use with caution in patients who may be more sensitive to systemic effects of PLIAGLIS, including acutely ill or debilitated or those with severe hepatic disease or pseudocholinesterase deficiency. ( 5.2 ) Risk of Secondary Exposure to Children and Pets : Store and dispose of PLIAGLIS out of reach of children and pets due to the risk of accidental exposure and resulting toxicity. ( 5 ) Anaphylactic Reactions : Seek emergency help if an anaphylactic reaction occurs. ( 5.4 ) Eye Irritation : Avoid contact with eyes. ( 5.5 ) 5.1 Methemoglobinemia Cases of methemoglobinemia have been reported in association with local anesthetic use. Although all patients are at risk for methemoglobinemia, patients with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, congenital or idiopathic methemoglobinemia, cardiac or pulmonary compromise, infants under 6 months of age, and concurrent exposure to oxidizing agents or their metabolites are more susceptible to developing clinical manifestations of the condition. If local anesthetics must be used in these patients, close monitoring for symptoms and signs of methemoglobinemia is recommended. Signs of methemoglobinemia may occur immediately or may be delayed some hours after exposure, and are characterized by a cyanotic skin discoloration and/or abnormal coloration of the blood. Methemoglobin levels may continue to rise; therefore, immediate treatment is required to avert more serious central nervous system and cardiovascular adverse effects, including seizures, coma, arrhythmias, and death. Discontinue PLIAGLIS and any other oxidizing agents. Depending on the severity of the signs and symptoms, patients may respond to supportive care, i.e., oxygen therapy, hydration. A more severe clinical presentation may require treatment with methylene blue, exchange transfusion, or hyperbaric oxygen. 5.2 Overexposure Application of PLIAGLIS for longer times than those recommended or application of PLIAGLIS over larger surface areas than those recommended could result in absorption of lidocaine and tetracaine at doses that could lead to serious adverse effects [see Overdosage (10) ] . When PLIAGLIS is used concomitantly with other products containing local anesthetic agents, consider the amount absorbed from all formulations since the systemic toxic effects are thought to be additive and potentially synergistic with lidocaine and tetracaine. PLIAGLIS is not recommended for use on mucous membranes or on areas with a compromised skin barrier because these uses have not been adequately studied. Application to broken or inflamed skin may result in toxic blood concentrations of lidocaine and tetracaine from increased absorption. Use PLIAGLIS with caution in patients who may be more sensitive to the systemic effects of lidocaine and tetracaine, including the acutely ill or debilitated. Patients with severe hepatic disease or pseudocholinesterase deficiency, because of their inability to metabolize local anesthetics normally, are at a greater risk of developing toxic plasma concentrations of lidocaine and tetracaine. 5.3 Risks of Secondary Exposure to Children and Pets Used PLIAGLIS contains a large amount of lidocaine and tetracaine. The potential exists for a small child or pet to suffer serious adverse effects from ingesting PLIAGLIS, although this risk with PLIAGLIS has not been evaluated. After use, replace the cap securely on the tube. It is important to store and dispose of PLIAGLIS out of the reach of children and pets. 5.4 Anaphylactic Reactions Allergic or anaphylactic reactions have been associated with lidocaine and tetracaine and may occur with other components of PLIAGLIS. They are characterized by urticaria, angioedema, bronchospasm, and shock. If an allergic reaction occurs, seek emergency help immediately. 5.5 Eye Irritation Avoid contact of PLIAGLIS with the eyes based on the findings of severe eye irritation with the use of similar products in animals. Also, the loss of protective reflexes may predispose to corneal irritation and potential abrasion. If eye contact occurs, immediately wash out the eye with water or saline and protect the eye until sensation returns. 5.6 Vaccinations Lidocaine has been shown to inhibit viral and bacterial growth. The effect of PLIAGLIS on intradermal injections of live vaccines has not been determined.
Drug interactions
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Antiarrhythmic Drugs : Use with caution in patients receiving Class I antiarrhythmic drugs (such as tocainide and mexiletine) because the systemic toxic effects are thought to be additive and potentially synergistic with lidocaine and tetracaine. ( 7.1 ) 7.1 Antiarrhythmic Drugs PLIAGLIS should be used with caution in patients receiving Class I antiarrhythmic drugs (such as tocainide and mexiletine) since the systemic toxic effects are thought to be additive and potentially synergistic with lidocaine and tetracaine. 7.2 Local Anesthetics When PLIAGLIS is used concomitantly with other products containing local anesthetic agents, the amount absorbed from all formulations should be considered since the systemic toxic effects are thought to be additive and potentially synergistic with lidocaine and tetracaine. 7.3 Drugs That May Cause Methemoglobinemia When Used with PLIAGLIS Patients who are administered local anesthetics are at increased risk of developing methemoglobinemia when concurrently exposed to the following drugs, which could include other local anesthetics: Examples of Drugs Associated with Methemoglobinemia: Class Examples Nitrates/Nitrites nitric oxide, nitroglycerin, nitroprusside, nitrous oxide Local anesthetics articaine, benzocaine, bupivacaine, lidocaine, mepivacaine, prilocaine, procaine, ropivacaine, tetracaine Antineoplastic agents cyclophosphamide, flutamide, hydroxyurea, ifosfamide, rasburicase Antibiotics dapsone, nitrofurantoin, para-aminosalicylic acid, sulfonamides Antimalarials chloroquine, primaquine Anticonvulsants phenobarbital, phenytoin, sodium valproate Other drugs acetaminophen, metoclopramide, quinine, sulfasalazine
Adverse reactions
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Methemoglobinemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Overexposure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Risks of Secondary Exposure in Children and Pets [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Anaphylactic Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Eye Irritation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Most common local reactions were erythema (47%), skin discoloration (16%), and edema (14%). ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact IPG Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-888-711-7116 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. However, the adverse reaction information from clinical trials does provide a basis for identifying the adverse events that appear to be related to drug use and for approximating their incidence in clinical practice. PLIAGLIS has been evaluated for safety in 2159 persons undergoing a superficial dermal procedure. PLIAGLIS was studied in 11 placebo-controlled and 1 active-controlled trials, and in open-label safety trials. All 2159 persons were exposed to only a single application of PLIAGLIS. Adverse reactions were assessed by collecting spontaneously reported adverse reactions, and observations made on formal evaluation of the skin for specific reactions. Most common adverse reactions in clinical trials Localized Reactions: In clinical studies, the most common local reactions were erythema (47%), skin discoloration (e.g., blanching, ecchymosis, and purpura) (16%), and edema (14%). There were no serious adverse reactions. However, one patient withdrew due to burning pain at the treatment site. Other Localized Reactions: The following dermal adverse reactions occurred in 1% or less of PLIAGLIS-treated patients: ecchymosis, petechial rash, vesiculobullous rash, perifollicular erythema, perifollicular edema, pruritus, rash, maculopapular rash, dry skin, contact dermatitis, and acne. Systemic (Dose-Related) Reactions: Across all trials, 19 subjects experienced a systemic adverse reaction, 15 of whom were treated with PLIAGLIS and 4 with placebo. The frequency of systemic adverse reactions was greater for the PLIAGLIS group (1%) than the placebo group (0.3%). The most common systemic adverse events were headache, vomiting, dizziness, and fever, all of which occurred with a frequency of <1%. Other systemic reactions were syncope, nausea, confusion, dehydration, hyperventilation, hypotension, nervousness, paresthesia, pharyngitis, stupor, pallor, and sweating. Systemic adverse reactions of lidocaine and tetracaine are similar in nature to those observed with other amide and ester local anesthetic agents, including CNS excitation and/or depression (lightheadedness, nervousness, apprehension, euphoria, confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, tinnitus, blurred or double vision, vomiting, sensation of heat, cold or numbness, twitching, tremors, convulsions, unconsciousness, respiratory depression and arrest). Excitatory CNS reactions may be brief or not occur at all, in which case the first manifestation may be drowsiness merging into unconsciousness. Signs of CNS toxicity may start at plasma concentrations of lidocaine at 1000 ng/mL. The plasma concentrations at which tetracaine toxicity may occur are less well characterized; however, systemic toxicity with tetracaine is thought to occur with much lower plasma concentrations compared with lidocaine. The toxicity of co-administered local anesthetics is thought to be at least additive. Cardiovascular manifestations may include bradycardia, hypotension and cardiovascular collapse leading to arrest. 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of PLIAGLIS. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Eye disorders: Eyelid swelling Skin: Pruritus, Rash, Skin Burning Sensation, Erythema, Urticaria Other: Drug ineffective
Use in pregnancy
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary There are no available data on PLIAGLIS use in pregnant women to determine a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Available data from an epidemiologic study and case series with parenteral lidocaine use in pregnant women have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage or other adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Published data on tetracaine use in pregnant women are not sufficient to determine any drug-associated risks. The amount of lidocaine and tetracaine systemically absorbed from PLIAGLIS is low compared to the parenteral route of administration and is not expected to result in significant fetal exposure. Systemic exposure of PLIAGLIS is directly related to both the duration of application and the surface area over which it is applied [ see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . In a published animal reproduction study, pregnant rats administered lidocaine by continuous subcutaneous infusion at doses approximately 1.3 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 53 grams of PLIAGLIS during the period of organogenesis resulted in lower fetal body weights. In a published animal reproduction study, pregnant rats administered lidocaine, containing 1:100,000 epinephrine, injected into the masseter muscle of the jaw or into the gum of the lower jaw on Gestation Day 11 at 0.02 times the MRHD of PLIAGLIS resulted in developmental delays in neonates. Subcutaneous administration of tetracaine to pregnant rats and rabbits during organogenesis did not produce adverse embryofetal effects at 0.03 times the MRHD of PLIAGLIS (see Data ) . The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. Data Animal Data Lidocaine administered by subcutaneous injection to pregnant rats during organogenesis was not teratogenic at doses up to 60 mg/kg (0.16 times the level of lidocaine contained in the MRHD of 53 grams of PLIAGLIS based on a mg/m 2 body surface area (BSA) comparison). Lidocaine administered by subcutaneous injection to pregnant rabbits during organogenesis was not teratogenic at doses up to 15 mg/kg (0.08 times the level of lidocaine in the MRHD of PLIAGLIS on a mg/m 2 basis). In a published study, lidocaine administered to pregnant rats by continuous subcutaneous infusion during the period of organogenesis at 100, 250, and 500 mg/kg/day, did not produce any structural abnormalities, but did result in lower fetal weights at 500 mg/kg/day dose (approximately 1.3 times the level of lidocaine in the MRHD of PLIAGLIS on a mg/m 2 basis) in the absence of maternal toxicity. Tetracaine administered by subcutaneous injection to pregnant rats during organogenesis was not teratogenic at doses up to 10 mg/kg or in rabbits at doses up to 5 mg/kg (equivalent to 0.03 times of tetracaine in the MRHD of PLIAGLIS on a mg/m 2 basis). Lidocaine and tetracaine administered by subcutaneous injection to pregnant rats during organogenesis as a 1:1 eutectic mixture of 10 mg/kg each (equivalent to 0.03 times the active components in the MRHD of PLIAGLIS on a mg/m 2 basis) was not teratogenic. Lidocaine and tetracaine by subcutaneous injection to pregnant rabbits during organogenesis as a 1:1 eutectic mixture of 5 mg/kg each was not teratogenic in rabbits (equivalent to 0.03 times the active components in the MRHD of PLIAGLIS on a mg/m 2 basis). Lidocaine containing 1:100,000 epinephrine at a dose of 6 mg/kg (approximately 0.02 times the level of lidocaine in the MRHD of PLIAGLIS on a mg/m 2 basis) injected into the masseter muscle of the jaw or into the gum of the lower jaw of pregnant Long-Evans hooded rats on Gestation Day 11, lead to developmental delays in neonatal behavior among offspring. Developmental delays were observed for negative geotaxis, static righting reflex, visual discrimination response, sensitivity and response to thermal and electrical shock stimuli, and water maze acquisition. The developmental delays of the neonatal animals were transient with responses becoming comparable to untreated animals later in life. The clinical relevance of the animal data is uncertain. Pre- and post-natal maturational, behavioral, or reproductive development was not affected by maternal subcutaneous administration of tetracaine during gestation (Gestation Day 6 to Post-Partum Day 20) and lactation up to doses of 7.5 mg/kg (equivalent to 0.02 times the level of tetracaine in the MRHD of PLIAGLIS on a mg/m 2 basis).

Label text is reproduced as-is from the FDA-approved label. We do not paraphrase, summarize, or omit. Content above is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your prescribing clinician or pharmacist before making decisions about your medication.

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  • Drug identity verified against openFDA NDC Directory.
  • Label text (when shown) originates from NLM DailyMed.
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