EMLA cream
"An anaesthetic cream you apply directly to your penis before sex to treat premature ejaculation (PE)."
What is EMLA cream?
You apply EMLA cream for premature ejaculation (PE) directly to your penis before sex to help prolong sex.
How does it work?
EMLA is a lidocaine prilocaine cream. These two local anaesthetics reduce sensitivity when applied to the tip of the penis. EMLA is a numbing cream that can effectively increase the time between getting an erection and ejaculation.
How to use EMLA cream
15-30 mins before you plan on having sex, apply a pea-sized amount of cream to your penis, on the underside near the frenulum (the thin band that connects the foreskin to the head of the penis).
Wipe away any excess cream before intercourse, so it doesn’t rub off on your partner. If the first application isn’t having the desired effect, try applying more cream. Spread it across a slightly larger area this time. Please read the patient information leaflet for more details on applying EMLA cream.
Treatment results
In studies, EMLA cream has been shown to be effective for lots of men. It can significantly increase the time between getting an erection and ejaculation.
Side effects of EMLA cream
You may notice redness and a slight swelling or tingling where you apply EMLA cream. It can also turn the skin pale when rubbed in. In rare cases, applying EMLA can cause a mild burning or itching in the treated area.
For full details of side effects and correct use, please see the EMLA patient information leaflet. And if you’re worried about side effects, you can contact us in your Patient Record.
Product features
Works inside 30 minutes
Numbing effect can delay ejaculation
An effective PE treatment for many men
What is EMLA cream?
You apply EMLA cream for premature ejaculation (PE) directly to your penis before sex to help prolong sex.
How does it work?
EMLA is a lidocaine prilocaine cream. These two local anaesthetics reduce sensitivity when applied to the tip of the penis. EMLA is a numbing cream that can effectively increase the time between getting an erection and ejaculation.
How to use EMLA cream
15-30 mins before you plan on having sex, apply a pea-sized amount of cream to your penis, on the underside near the frenulum (the thin band that connects the foreskin to the head of the penis).
Wipe away any excess cream before intercourse, so it doesn’t rub off on your partner. If the first application isn’t having the desired effect, try applying more cream. Spread it across a slightly larger area this time. Please read the patient information leaflet for more details on applying EMLA cream.
Treatment results
In studies, EMLA cream has been shown to be effective for lots of men. It can significantly increase the time between getting an erection and ejaculation.
Side effects of EMLA cream
You may notice redness and a slight swelling or tingling where you apply EMLA cream. It can also turn the skin pale when rubbed in. In rare cases, applying EMLA can cause a mild burning or itching in the treated area.
For full details of side effects and correct use, please see the EMLA patient information leaflet. And if you’re worried about side effects, you can contact us in your Patient Record.
Select a medication and complete our simple, confidential online consultation
A clinician will review your answers and, if suitable, prescribe treatment
Choose next-day delivery, or click & collect from your local pharmacy
EMLA cream FAQs
-
What is EMLA cream used for?
EMLA cream is a local anaesthetic, for numbing a specific area of skin. It’s commonly used before needle procedures like vaccinations and blood tests. EMLA cream is also used to treat premature ejaculation.
Can EMLA cream be used for tattoos?
Yes. You can use EMLA cream when you’re getting a tattoo anywhere on your body. Let your tattoo artist know before the session that you’ll be using EMLA cream to numb the area.
-
How long does EMLA cream last?
When applied as directed, the numbing effect of EMLA lasts for at least two hours.
When to use EMLA cream
Apply EMLA cream 15-30 minutes before you have sex, remembering to wipe off any excess before it comes into contact with your partner.
-
EMLA cream dosages
You can get EMLA cream in two different pack sizes, 5mg and 30mg.
-
Where can I buy EMLA cream?
When you’re going to use EMLA cream to treat premature ejaculation, you’ll need a prescription.
We offer an online consultation that’s quick and confidential. Our clinicians can make sure the medication is right for you and prescribe it for discreet delivery or collection.
Can I buy EMLA cream over the counter?
Yes, you can. In a pharmacy and online too, without a prescription. However, if you want to use EMLA to treat premature ejaculation, it's best to get advice from a medical professional first.
-
EMLA cream warnings
We can only prescribe EMLA cream for you if you’re a man over the age of 18 who doesn’t have a G6PD deficiency or certain blood disorders like methemoglobinemia.
If you have a cut or scratch on your penis, you should avoid EMLA, as it’s likely to cause irritation.
Do not use EMLA cream if you’re allergic to lidocaine or prilocaine, similar local anaesthetics, or any of the other ingredients in this medication.
-
EMLA cream drug interactions
If it’s been prescribed after a thorough consultation, you should be able to use EMLA cream with other medications.
So, we can prescribe it safely, you’ll need to let us know which prescription and over-the-counter medicines or recreational drugs you’re taking regularly.
-
How to store EMLA cream
EMLA cream doesn’t need any special storage, however, don’t store it above 30°C or freeze.
-
Alternative EMLA cream treatments
As the causes of premature ejaculation are often psychological, some men find counselling or hypnotherapy most effective.
There are exercises you and your partner can practise to help you last longer, or to be more satisfied with your performance.
And don’t underestimate the power of talking as a couple about sexual issues like PE. This can help feel more relaxed about expectations and your performance.
We can also prescribe Priligy to treat PE. This tablet works to block brain signals that trigger ejaculation, allowing you to last longer during sex.
