A 4% lidocaine patch provides a tidy, hands-free way to place temporary relief over a minor ache. The correct wear time, however, depends on the exact patch you purchase.

Product-specific directions matter: Different 4% lidocaine patches may have different wear times. Always follow the Drug Facts label on your package.

Direct answer

How long can you wear a WELMATE 4% lidocaine patch?

The current WELMATE Drug Facts label directs adults and children over 12 to use one patch for up to 12 hours. Remove and safely discard the patch after one use.

Wear time Up to 12 hours

Quantity One patch at a time

After use Remove and discard

Why do some 4% lidocaine patches say eight hours?

Different manufacturers may provide different directions based on their particular patch and labeling. Some nonprescription 4% products specify up to eight hours, while the current WELMATE label specifies up to 12 hours.

The “4%” on the front identifies the lidocaine strength. It does not establish one universal wear time for every patch.

For the current WELMATE patch Use one patch for no longer than 12 hours. Do not add another patch or extend the wear time because discomfort remains.

How should you apply a lidocaine patch?

Clean and completely dry the affected area.
Make sure the skin is intact and free from cuts, swelling or irritation.
Remove the protective film from the patch.
Place the sticky side directly over the affected area.
Remove it within the labeled wear time and discard it after use.

Used patches still contain medicine. Fold or dispose of them in a way that keeps them safely away from children and pets.

Can you sleep while wearing a lidocaine patch?

You may wear the patch during sleep only when doing so keeps you within the labeled time and you can use it safely. Setting a reminder can help prevent accidentally wearing it too long.

What should you avoid while wearing the patch?

Do not place a heating pad, heated blanket or other source of local heat over the patch. Do not bandage it tightly or use another topical pain reliever on the same area at the same time.

Stop use and ask a doctor Remove the patch and seek guidance if redness or irritation develops, your condition worsens, or you notice pain, swelling or blistering where the patch was applied. Do not use it for more than one week without consulting a doctor.

Three things to remember

The current WELMATE label allows one patch for up to 12 hours.
Other 4% patches may have different directions.
Never use the patch with local heat or on damaged skin.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wear a WELMATE lidocaine patch for longer than 12 hours?

No. Remove it within 12 hours and follow all directions on the package.

Can I wear two lidocaine patches at once?

The current WELMATE label says not to use more than one patch on the body at a time.

Can I place a heating pad over the patch?

No. Do not apply local heat or tightly bandage the treated area.

Can a lidocaine patch be reused?

No. Each patch is intended for one use and should be safely discarded after removal.

What if the patch irritates my skin?

Remove it and stop use. Ask a doctor if redness, irritation, pain, swelling or blistering develops.

Targeted topical relief

Keep everyday pain relief within reach

WELMATE 4% lidocaine patches offer a flexible, hands-free format for temporary relief of minor aches.

4% lidocaine Flexible patch format Free U.S. shipping

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WELMATE 4% Lidocaine Patches

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Always read and follow the selected product’s Drug Facts label.

Sources

DailyMed: WELMATE 4% Lidocaine Pain Relieving Patch

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