Synera (lidocaine 70 mg/tetracaine 70 mg topical patch) (Endo Pharmaceuticals, Chadds Ford, Pa.) is indicated for use on intact skin to provide local dermal analgesia for superficial venous access and superficial dermatologic procedures. The patch has a self-warming feature that's intended to facilitate drug delivery.

The patch is approved for use in adults and children 3 years of age and older. Clinical studies demonstrate that the most common local reactions were erythemea (71%), blanching (12%), and edema (12%); these reactions were generally mild, resolving spontaneously soon after treatment. The patch must be used intact to minimize the potential for thermal injury.