Lignosalc Gel

Choline Salicylate (9% w/w) + Lidocaine (2% w/w)
Price: ₹80 - ₹115 for 30g tube
Mfr: Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. | Form: Topical Gel

📋 Clinical Overview

A topical analgesic and anti-inflammatory combination used for the relief of mild to moderate pain and inflammation associated with musculoskeletal conditions. Choline salicylate is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that provides anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, while lidocaine is a local anesthetic that provides rapid pain relief by blocking nerve conduction.

💊 Dosage & Administration

Adult: Apply a thin layer (2-4 g, approx. 1-2 inches of gel) to the affected area 3 to 4 times daily. Gently rub in. Do not apply more than 4 times in 24 hours.

Note: For external use only. Wash hands before and after application. Apply to clean, dry, intact skin. Do not cover with occlusive dressings unless advised by a doctor. Do not apply near eyes, mouth, genital areas, or on mucous membranes. Do not use with heating pads.

⚠️ Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to salicylates (including aspirin), other NSAIDs, or amide-type local anesthetics
  • History of asthma, urticaria, or allergic-type reactions after taking aspirin or other NSAIDs
  • Application to broken, damaged, or infected skin
  • Children and adolescents under 16 years with viral infections (risk of Reye's syndrome)
  • Third trimester of pregnancy

🔬 Mechanism of Action

The combination works via two distinct mechanisms. Lidocaine blocks voltage-gated sodium channels on neuronal membranes, inhibiting the initiation and conduction of nerve impulses, leading to localized numbness. Choline salicylate, after conversion to salicylic acid, inhibits the cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, particularly COX-1 and COX-2, thereby reducing the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are mediators of pain, inflammation, and fever.

🤕 Side Effects

  • Application site reactions: Burning, stinging, itching, erythema (redness)
  • Dry skin
  • Mild skin rash

🤰 Special Populations

Pregnancy: Category C (US FDA). Avoid in first and second trimesters unless clearly needed. CONTRAINDICATED in third trimester due to risk of premature closure of ductus arteriosus, delayed labor, and maternal/neonatal bleeding.

Driving: May cause dizziness or localized numbness. Patients should not drive or operate machinery until they know how the medication affects them, especially if applied to hands.

🔄 Drug Interactions

Anticoagulants (Warfarin, Acenocoumarol)Increased risk of bleeding due to antiplatelet effect of salicylate.Major
Other Oral NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Diclofenac)Increased risk of GI toxicity and renal impairment. May diminish cardioprotective effect of aspirin.Major
MethotrexateSalicylate may decrease renal clearance of methotrexate, increasing toxicity risk.Major
LithiumSalicylate may decrease renal clearance of lithium, leading to toxicity.Major
ACE Inhibitors (Enalapril, Ramipril)Salicylate may reduce antihypertensive efficacy.Moderate
Diuretics (Furosemide)Risk of reduced diuretic and antihypertensive effect; potential for nephrotoxicity.Moderate
Antiepileptics (Phenytoin, Carbamazepine)Lidocaine toxicity risk may increase due to CYP competition.Moderate
Beta-blockers (Propranolol)May increase risk of lidocaine toxicity by reducing hepatic blood flow.Moderate

🔁 Alternatives to Lignosalc Gel

Same composition (Choline Salicylate (9% w/w) + Lidocaine (2% w/w)), different brands:

Movon Gel Lignospan Forte Gel Salcaina Gel Lignocholine Gel