"FDA Issues Warning on Topical Pain Relief Products for Health Risks"

The FDA has issued warning letters to six companies for marketing unapproved and misbranded topical pain relief products containing high concentrations of lidocaine, which pose serious health risks when used before or during certain cosmetic procedures. Consumers are advised not to use over-the-counter pain relief products with more than 4% lidocaine, apply them heavily over large areas of skin, or wrap treated skin with plastic wrap. The FDA urges consumers and healthcare professionals to report any adverse events related to these products and has placed some companies on import alert to prevent their products from reaching consumers.