Could a patch replace the needle? new study tests lidocaine patch for epidural pain

NCT ID NCT07700108

First seen Jul 13, 2026 · Last updated Jul 17, 2026 · Updated 4 times

Summary

This study compares a lidocaine patch to the standard lidocaine injection for numbing the skin before an epidural needle is placed in pregnant women. The goal is to see if the patch can reduce pain and fear of needles during labor. Participants are randomly assigned to receive the patch, an injection, or both, and their pain responses are measured.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
lidocaine patch 4%
What this could lead to
If effective, the lidocaine patch could offer a less painful alternative to numbing injections before epidural placement, reducing needle-related fear and discomfort.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-phase trial, so results may not apply broadly. The patch may not numb the skin as quickly or effectively as the injection.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center Hospitals

    RECRUITING

    Columbus, Ohio, 43201, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact

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