Lidocaine helps to reduce sharp/burning/aching pain as well as discomfort caused by skin areas that are overly sensitive to touch. Lidocaine belongs to a class of drugs known as local anesthetics. It works by causing a temporary loss of feeling in the area where you apply the patch. Lidocaine topical is a local anesthetic (numbing medication). There are many brands and forms of lidocaine topical available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet. Lidocaine topical (for use on the skin) is used to provide temporary relief of muscle or joint pain or discomfort. It has a role as a xenobiotic, a local anaesthetic, an anti-arrhythmia drug, an environmental contaminant and a drug allergen. It is a member of benzenes, a monocarboxylic acid amide and a tertiary amino compound. It is functionally related to a glycinamide. Lidocaine skin patch is used to relieve nerve pain caused by herpes zoster or shingles (postherpetic neuralgia). Lidocaine belongs to the family of medicines called local anesthetics. Overview: Lidocaine for mucous membranes (such as the mouth and throat) is commonly used to prevent and relieve pain or to numb part of your body before a procedure. The most common side effects. Lidocaine is an antiarrhythmic medication of the class Ib type. [9] This means it works by blocking sodium channels thus decreasing the rate of contractions of the heart. [12][9] When injected near nerves, the nerves cannot conduct signals to or from the brain. [10] Lidocaine was discovered in 1946 and went on sale in 1948. [13].