R.I. company launches novel foam anesthetic

CUMBERLAND – A local pharmaceutical company that specializes in treatments for skin and skin-related disorders has launched what it says is the first and only foam formulation of lidocaine, a topical anesthetic for the temporary relief of pain from minor cuts and scrapes, abrasions, skin irritation, sunburn, burns and insect bites.
The product, called Anestafoam, will be sold primarily to dermatologists and podiatrists, creator Onset Therapeutics said in a news release. It will also be available at retail drug stores and over the Internet, the company said.
Anestafoam is based on a proprietary foam formula that the company said is particularly effective because it releases the active ingredients quickly and is moisturizing, alcohol-free, easy to spread over large areas of the body, and leaves no messy residue after absorption into the skin – all of which make it likelier to be used by patients. •