What was recalled
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recently announced a significant recall involving a specific line of topical anesthetic products manufactured by Clinical Resolution Laboratory. This action centers on the Numb 100 Topical Anesthetic Cream, a product designed to provide pain relief through numbing agents. The scope of this recall is quite broad, encompassing approximately 26,500 units of the affected cream. It is important for consumers to understand exactly which items are involved so they can quickly determine if their household contains any of these specific products. The recall was officially initiated on February 28, 2019, and remains active for anyone who may have purchased these items in the past.
To help you identify whether you possess a recalled unit, it is essential to look closely at the physical characteristics of the packaging. The affected product is contained in a white jar that holds exactly 1.35 fluid ounces of cream. This container features a rounded cap, which is part of the design but unfortunately does not meet current safety standards for child-resistant closures. On the front panel of the jar, you will see the product name "Numb 100 Topical Anesthetic Cream" clearly printed. Additionally, there is a blue cross printed on the front panel as part of the branding and identification. If your jar matches this description—white container, rounded cap, 1.35-ounce capacity, with the specific text and blue cross markings—it is part of this recall.
The primary reason for this large-scale removal from the market is not necessarily a defect in the cream’s effectiveness or chemical composition, but rather a failure to meet federal packaging requirements. Specifically, the packaging does not comply with the Poison Prevention Packaging Act, which mandates that certain hazardous household substances be sold in special containers that are difficult for young children to open. Because the current cap design lacks this required child-resistant feature, there is a heightened risk that children could access the contents. This recall serves as a critical safety measure to ensure that families do not inadvertently expose young children to potentially dangerous levels of lidocaine through accidental ingestion or improper application on sensitive skin areas.
If you are unsure whether you purchased this product, check your bathroom cabinets, medicine chests, or any area where pain relief creams are typically stored. Look specifically for the white jars with the rounded caps described above. Since the recall was announced in early 2019, it is possible that these items have been sitting unused on a shelf for some time. However, do not assume they are safe to keep just because time has passed. The packaging defect remains unchanged, and the risk persists as long as the product is accessible to children. If you find a jar that matches this description, treat it as part of the recall immediately.
While the manufacturer, Clinical Resolution Laboratory, has been contacted regarding this issue, the responsibility now falls on consumers to verify their possession of these items. The recall does not involve other brands or even other products from Clinical Resolution Laboratory that may use different packaging designs. It is strictly limited to the Numb 100 Topical Anesthetic Cream in the specific white jars described. By taking a few moments to inspect your home supplies, you can ensure that your family remains safe and that you are eligible for the remedies offered by the manufacturer.
The hazard, explained
To understand why this recall matters, we need to look at the specific design failure involved. The core issue is not with the cream itself, but with the packaging that holds it. Under federal law, specifically the Poison Prevention Packaging Act (PPPA), certain hazardous household substances must be sold in special containers designed to be difficult for young children to open. These child-resistant closures are engineered to require a level of dexterity and strength that toddlers and preschoolers typically do not possess. In the case of the recalled Numb 100 Topical Anesthetic Cream from Clinical Resolution Laboratory, the packaging failed to meet these mandatory safety standards. The jar’s rounded cap does not provide the necessary resistance to prevent a determined child from unscrewing or pulling it off.
When the barrier of the bottle fails, the risk shifts entirely to the active ingredient inside: lidocaine. Lidocaine is a local anesthetic, which means its job is to temporarily block nerve signals in a specific area of the body to stop pain. While this is incredibly useful for adults managing minor cuts, burns, or medical procedures, it becomes dangerous when introduced into a child’s system through ingestion or excessive skin absorption. Because the cap does not lock securely, a curious toddler can easily access the cream and apply it to their own skin or put it in their mouth.
The harm occurs because children process chemicals differently than adults. Their bodies are smaller, meaning even a small amount of medication can lead to toxic levels in the bloodstream. If a child ingests lidocaine or absorbs too much through their skin, it can interfere with the nervous system. This can lead to poisoning symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, nausea, and in severe cases, seizures or heart rhythm problems. The danger is compounded by the fact that these creams are often used for sensitive areas, making accidental transfer to a child’s hands more likely if the container is left within reach.
This is not a hypothetical risk; it is a well-documented safety concern that led regulators to mandate child-resistant packaging for such products in the first place. The goal of the PPPA is to buy parents time and create a physical obstacle that prevents accidental exposure during those critical moments when a child wanders into a room or reaches for a jar on a counter. By failing to use a compliant closure, this product removed that crucial layer of protection, turning a standard pain-relief item into a potential hazard for households with young children.
Who is most at risk
While this recall affects anyone who has purchased Numb 100 Topical Anesthetic Cream from Clinical Resolution Laboratory, the primary group at immediate risk consists of young children, particularly those under the age of five. The core issue here is not just that the product exists, but how it interacts with the developmental stages of early childhood. Toddlers and preschoolers are naturally curious explorers who learn about their world through touch and taste. They lack the cognitive ability to understand warning labels or the physical dexterity required to open a properly designed child-resistant container. When a product like this fails to meet the rigorous standards of the Poison Prevention Packaging Act, it inadvertently becomes an accessible hazard in homes where these items are stored.
The specific danger lies in the active ingredient: lidocaine. This is a local anesthetic that works by blocking nerve signals in the body. While effective for pain relief when used correctly on intact skin or as directed by a professional, it becomes highly toxic if ingested or absorbed through broken skin in large quantities. Young children have a lower body weight compared to adults, meaning even a small amount of the cream can result in a disproportionately high dose relative to their size. Their developing metabolic systems are also less efficient at processing and eliminating toxins, which increases the likelihood of severe poisoning symptoms such as seizures, irregular heartbeats, or respiratory distress.
Furthermore, risk is elevated in households where caregivers may be distracted or multitasking. Parents and guardians often keep medical supplies in visible, easily accessible places for quick use during emergencies. If the cap does not require significant force or specific manipulation to open, a child can access the cream while an adult is merely turning away for a few seconds. The white jar with the rounded cap described in this recall may appear innocuous and easy to grip, making it particularly appealing to small hands. There have been no reported incidents as of the recall date, but the potential for harm is real because the barrier between the child and the poison is effectively non-existent.
Elderly individuals or those with cognitive impairments also face a secondary layer of risk, though perhaps less acute than young children. For older adults, confusion regarding medication storage or application can lead to accidental misuse. However, the immediate physical danger of poisoning is most critical for those who cannot communicate their symptoms effectively or who are drawn to the product out of curiosity rather than need. Therefore, any household with young children must treat this item as a high-priority hazard until it is properly secured or returned.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
Identifying whether your topical anesthetic is part of this specific recall requires careful attention to physical details on the packaging. Because Clinical Resolution Laboratory has issued a recall for Numb 100 Topical Anesthetic Cream, you must verify that you possess this exact product line before taking any further action. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has outlined specific characteristics that define the affected units, and because the packaging design is quite distinct, you can likely confirm your status by looking at the jar itself. It is crucial to inspect the container thoroughly, as even minor variations in cap shape or labeling could indicate a different batch that may not be subject to this particular safety notice.
First, look at the size and material of the container. The recalled product comes exclusively in a 1.35 fluid ounce jar. This is a very specific volume, so if your jar is larger or smaller, it is not part of this recall. The jar itself should be white in color. This is a standard aesthetic for many medical creams, but when combined with the specific volume, it becomes a key identifier. You are looking for a small, sturdy-looking container that holds just over one ounce of product.
Next, examine the lid. The recall specifically notes that the affected jars have a rounded cap. This is an important visual cue because other versions of topical anesthetics or even different batches from the same company might use flat caps, screw-on metal lids, or flip-top mechanisms. If your jar has a distinctly rounded top that fits smoothly against the body of the container, this matches the description provided in the recall notice.
Finally, check the front panel for branding and specific text. The label must clearly state Numb 100 Topical Anesthetic Cream. Additionally, look for a blue cross printed on the front of the jar. This graphic element is part of the official labeling for this product line. If the blue cross is missing, or if the text reads differently (for example, if it says "Lidocaine" prominently without the "Numb 100" branding), you likely do not have the recalled item. However, if you see all these elements—the 1.35 oz white jar, the rounded cap, the Numb 100 name, and the blue cross—you are holding one of the approximately 26,500 units subject to this recall.
If you are unsure about any detail, or if the labeling is faded and difficult to read, do not guess. The safest course of action is to treat it as recalled until you can verify its status through the official channels provided by Clinical Resolution Laboratory. When in doubt, contact them directly using the information below to confirm whether your specific batch number falls within the recall scope.
What to do — step by step
If you have purchased Numb 100 Topical Anesthetic Cream from Clinical Resolution Laboratory, the first and most critical action you need to take is to stop using the product immediately. Even if the cream has been sitting unused in your medicine cabinet or gym bag for a while, do not apply it to your skin. The core issue with this recall is not that the medication itself is ineffective or contaminated with harmful substances; rather, the packaging fails to meet the stringent safety standards required by the Poison Prevention Packaging Act. While the lidocaine inside is a standard ingredient for numbing pain, it becomes dangerous when accessible to young children because they may mistake the white jar for a harmless container like lotion or candy. By putting the product out of reach of children right now, you are effectively neutralizing the immediate risk of accidental poisoning before you deal with the logistics of the return. Once you have secured the product safely, your next step is to initiate contact with Clinical Resolution Laboratory to arrange for your remedy. You have three specific options available to you: a full refund of your purchase price, a free replacement jar of cream (presumably in updated packaging), or a free replacement child-resistant cap if you wish to keep the original container. To get started, you should call their dedicated toll-free number at 877-566-9687. It is important to make this call during their specified business hours, which are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or need to send documentation, you can also email them at info@clinicalresolution.com. When you reach out, have your product ready so you can provide any necessary details about the batch or purchase location if asked. Alternatively, you may find it more convenient to handle this process entirely online. Visit www.clinicalresolution.com and navigate to the top of the homepage to click on the "Recall Information" tab. This section is designed to guide you through the specific steps required for this recall event. Follow the instructions provided there to submit your claim or request your preferred remedy. Whether you choose a refund, a replacement cream, or just the safety cap, ensure you follow their instructions precisely to avoid delays in processing your request. Finally, once you have contacted the company and confirmed your remedy, you must dispose of the recalled item properly if you are not keeping it. Do not simply throw the jar in your regular household trash where a curious child might find it later, even if the cap is on. The current cap does not meet safety standards, so the packaging itself remains a potential hazard until it is destroyed or properly handled according to the instructions provided by Clinical Resolution Laboratory. If you are sending the product back to them, ensure it is sealed securely in a box to prevent any leakage during shipping. By following these steps diligently, you ensure that your household remains safe and that you receive the appropriate compensation or safety upgrade for the defective packaging.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that you possess the recalled Numb 100 Topical Anesthetic Cream, your next step is to secure a remedy through the manufacturer, Clinical Resolution Laboratory. The company has outlined three specific paths for resolution, allowing you to choose the option that best fits your personal needs and circumstances. It is important to understand that you are not required to return the product physically to receive compensation or a replacement in most cases of this nature, but you do need to initiate contact to verify your claim and receive instructions.
The first option available to you is a full refund. If you prefer to simply get your money back and discontinue use of the product entirely, Clinical Resolution Laboratory will issue a complete reimbursement for the purchase price. This is often the preferred choice for consumers who no longer need the topical anesthetic or who wish to switch to a different brand that meets current safety standards without any hassle. To pursue this, you must reach out to their customer service team to process the transaction.
Alternatively, if you still require pain relief and trust the efficacy of the cream itself, you may opt for a free replacement cream. This option ensures that you continue to have access to the product’s active ingredients without incurring additional costs. The replacement provided will be a new unit of Numb 100 Topical Anesthetic Cream. This is a practical choice if you have found relief using this specific formulation and simply want to restore your supply.
A third, more technical option is to receive a free replacement child-resistant cap. This remedy addresses the specific safety defect identified in the recall—the failure of the original packaging to meet the Poison Prevention Packaging Act requirements. By installing the new, compliant cap on your existing jar of cream, you can continue using the product safely at home. This is an excellent solution if you are committed to finishing the current jar and want to maintain the exact same product experience while eliminating the risk of accidental child access.
To access any of these remedies, you must contact Clinical Resolution Laboratory directly. You have three convenient methods for doing so. You can call their toll-free number at 877-566-9687. If you choose to call, please note that customer service representatives are available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may send an email to info@clinicalresolution.com. For those who prefer self-service, you can visit their website at www.clinicalresolution.com and click on the Recall Information tab located at the top of the page. This online portal provides detailed information and likely contains a form or further instructions for initiating your specific claim.
When you contact the company, be prepared to provide details about your product to verify it is part of this recall batch. While the recall notice does not specify every document required, having your proof of purchase and the product details handy will help expedite the process. Remember that the goal of these options is to protect your family from potential poisoning risks while respecting your consumer rights. Whether you choose a refund, a new jar, or just a safer cap, acting promptly ensures that the hazardous packaging is removed from your home.
What can happen if you ignore it
It is completely understandable why you might be tempted to keep using a product that has already been opened and sits comfortably on your shelf. You may have purchased it for a specific reason, such as managing minor pain or preparing for a procedure, and discarding it feels like a waste of money. However, ignoring this recall carries significant risks that extend far beyond the financial loss of the cream itself. The core issue here is not that the product is ineffective, but that its packaging fails to provide the critical barrier designed to protect young children from accidental exposure.
When you leave the recalled Numb 100 Topical Anesthetic Cream in a place where children can access it, you are essentially leaving a hazardous substance unguarded. The lidocaine contained within this cream is a potent local anesthetic. While safe for adults when used correctly under supervision, lidocaine poses a serious threat to young children because their bodies process the drug differently and they have less body mass to distribute the dose. If a child manages to remove the non-child-resistant cap, they may ingest the cream or apply it to their skin without understanding the consequences.
The danger of poisoning in this scenario is not theoretical. Lidocaine toxicity can occur rapidly when absorbed through the skin or ingested by a small body. Symptoms of poisoning can include dizziness, confusion, seizures, difficulty breathing, and even loss of consciousness. Because young children are curious and may taste substances they find interesting, the risk of ingestion is particularly high. Even a small amount of this cream, which would be harmless to an adult, could lead to severe medical complications for a toddler or preschooler. There have been no reported incidents for this specific batch yet, but that silence does not mean the danger is absent; it simply means that hopefully, no one has had the misfortune of discovering this risk through injury.
By continuing to use this product without addressing the packaging flaw, you are leaving a preventable accident waiting to happen. The lack of a child-resistant closure means that any standard twist-off or pop-on cap is insufficient against the strength and persistence of a curious child. Ignoring the recall effectively removes the last line of defense between your child and a potential medical emergency. It transforms a simple topical cream into an unmarked hazard in your home, increasing the likelihood that a momentary lapse in supervision could result in a poisoning event that requires immediate emergency intervention.
Furthermore, relying on this product without replacing it with a safe alternative leaves you vulnerable if you still need pain relief. There is no benefit to keeping a product that compromises household safety for the sake of convenience. The potential consequence of ignoring this recall is not just the loss of the cream’s value, but the very real possibility of causing serious harm to a loved one who cannot protect themselves from the chemical dangers present in an improperly sealed container.