I use the lidocaine patches, not gel. I don't know anything about the gel, except once being given it for a mouth sore.

I find the lidocaine patches work 100% on one nagging problem: I get itching on the top or sides of my feet that has the potential to drive me nuts and keep me awake. But the patches silence the itching totally.

I also have gotten relief when I get a repetitive sensation of stabbing that seems to be from one nerve over and over, usually, again, on a foot. A patch the size of a nickel over the spot can stop the shocking sensations.