lidocaine injection

Lidocaine is an antiarrhythmic agent and a local anesthetic.

Why is lidocaine injection prescribed?

Lidocaine is prescribed for anesthesia during surgery and to control ventricular arrhythmias associated with heart attack or cardiac surgery.

Do I need a prescription for lidocaine injection?

Is lidocaine injection available as a generic drug?

What are the side effects of lidocaine injection?

Side effects vary by dose and site of administration. The most common adverse reactions include:

• low heart rate,
• low blood pressure,
• backache,
• dizziness,
• lightheadedness,
• numbness.

Additional side effects include:

• shivering,
• tingling,
• sedation,
• blurry vision,
• confusion,
• nervousness,
• euphoria.

Rare, but serious side effects include:

• cardiac arrest,
• methemoglobinemia,
• breakdown of cartilage,
• seizure,
• loss of consciousness.

What is the dosage for lidocaine injection?

The initial dose for anesthesia in adults depends on the procedure, depth of anesthesia, blood flow to the region, duration of anesthesia, and patient’s condition. The maximum dose for anesthesia is 4.5 mg/kg and should not exceed 300 mg per dose. For arrhythmias, the initial intravenous or intraosseous dose is 1 to 1.5 mg/kg. If using an endotracheal tube, the initial dose is 2 to 3.75 mg/kg. Lidocaine is rapidly metabolized. Any conditions that affect liver function may alter the half-life of lidocaine.

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Which drugs or supplements interact with lidocaine injection?

Dronedarone increases blood levels of lidocaine and its side effects by reducing its breakdown in the liver. Lidocaine increases the effect of bupivacaine liposomal by increasing its availability. Carbamazepine, phenobarbital, and rifampin may reduce blood levels of lidocaine by increasing its breakdown in the liver. Erythromycin, amprenavir, omeprazole, and ciprofloxacin may increase levels of lidocaine by reducing its breakdown in the liver.

Is lidocaine injection safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

There are no adequate studies of use in pregnant women. Available evidence does not suggest harm to the fetus. Lidocaine crosses the placenta and does enter the fetal bloodstream, so close monitoring of the heart is recommended.

Lidocaine is excreted in breast milk, so it should be used cautiously by nursing mothers. The amount absorbed by the infant is not expected to be significant.

What else should I know about lidocaine injection?

What preparations of lidocaine injection are available?

Injection Solution with or without preservatives: 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.8%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 4%, 5% in 2, 5, 10, 20, 30, 50, 250, 500 mL.

How should I keep lidocaine injection stored?

Lidocaine should be stored at room temperature, between 15 C to 30 C (59 F to 86 F).

How does lidocaine injection work?

Lidocaine, a local anesthetic, reduces the flow of sodium in nerves, causing a loss of sensation. It also works as an antiarrhythmic by decreasing the conduction of electrical signals in damaged heart tissue.

When was lidocaine injection approved by the FDA?

Lidocaine was approved by the FDA in November 1948.

Summary

Lidocaine injection is an antiarrhythmic agent and a local anesthetic used for anesthesia during surgery and to control ventricular arrhythmias associated with heart attack or cardiac surgery. Side effects, dosage, storage, drug interactions, and pregnancy safety information should be reviewed prior to administering this medication.

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