Earlier in 2008, many dermatological patients were excited with the release of Pliaglis, a lidocaine and tetracaine-based peel-off mask designed to dull pain prior to injections and laser sessions. Pliaglis was exciting because it contained 7% lidocaine, the highest concentration approved by the FDA, and was found in Dermatologic Surgery to have low risk of side effects. Unfortunately, a press release from Gliderma (the makers of Pliaglis) confirms that Pliaglis has been pulled from the market due to “significant levels of variability in the viscosity parameter, resulting in a thicker cream which can make application of the product difficult.”
Pre-procedure, it is now best to talk to your dermatologist or plastic surgeon about alternatives for Pliaglis. In addition, some patients may find it helpful to use over-the-counter numbing solutions post-procedure. One alternative is Dr. Hauschka Ouch Arnica Compress ($10.00 for five, Amazon.com). Although a 1998 systematic review in Archives of Surgery established that arnica is not effacacious beyond a placebo effect, Dr. Hauschka Ouch Arnica Compresses are still popular products amongst patients.
I will keep you updated on Pliaglis information in the future!