Uses of undefined

Lidocaine is a medication commonly used as a local anesthetic to numb a specific body area before minor surgical procedures, dental work, or diagnostic tests. It is administered as an injection, spray, or topical application to relieve pain and reduce discomfort during these procedures. It is also administered epidurally (into the epidural space of the spinal cord) to provide anesthesia and act as a pain reliever during childbirth. This drug is commonly used in emergencies to treat ventricular arrhythmias, particularly ventricular fibrillation.

undefined Drug administaration and Dosage available

Lidocaine will be administered to you by a healthcare professional in a hospital setting. It is usually administered orally, intravenously, patches, or as a nasal spray. Your doctor will decide the dose, route of administration, and frequency based on your disease condition and other factors.

Warnings, Precautions and Side Effects of undefined

Warnings

Avoiding this product if you have a known allergy to this drug or any other local anesthetics is important. This drug should not be given if you have an abnormality of impulse propagation in the heart that causes decreased blood pressure and slow heart rate, such as complete heart block, because it can affect the electrical conduction in the heart and may exacerbate these conditions. Lidocaine should not be administered if you have a condition of decreased blood volume called hypovolaemia. This condition can interfere with the distribution and effectiveness of the medication.

Precautions

When Lidocaine is combined with adrenaline (epinephrine), it should not be administered into a vein or used in areas with limited blood supply, such as fingers, toes, ears, nose, or penis, because it can lead to vasoconstriction throughout the body by causing inadequate blood flow to the organs. Inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, especially those related to the heart, liver, or kidneys. This medicine may require dose adjustments or close monitoring in individuals with certain medical conditions. If you are using cream or ointment, it is advisable to avoid applying it directly to the breast area to prevent accidental ingestion by the infant.

Side Effects

The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Lidocaine are numbness or tingling/paralysis of the legs, irregular bowel movements, tinnitus, loss of balance, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, fear and anxiety. Some serious side effects also include severe allergic reactions, bluish discoloration of the skin, wheezing, itching, breathlessness, swelling of face, eyelids, and mouth, changes in heart rate and low blood pressure.

Word Of Advice

It is highly advised to use this drug as directed and avoid exceeding the recommended dosage. When this drug is used in excessive amounts or if it enters the bloodstream, it can cause systemic effects such as dizziness, confusion, nervousness, tremors, and in severe cases, seizures or cardiac abnormalities. Always refer to the product packaging, and ask your physician for clarification if you have any doubts about the medicine. Keep Lidocaine away from excessive moisture and heat, as they can degrade the medication. Store them in a cool, dry place.

Frequently Asked Question

• Does Lidocaine need to be refrigerated?
• Most of these products don't require refrigeration. Generally, these formulations can be stored at room temperature, away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. It's important to keep Lidocaine and other medications out of reach for children and pets.

• Where should you not use Lidocaine?
• It's generally recommended to avoid applying Lidocaine to infected or broken skin, as it may increase the chance of systemic absorption and potential side effects.

• Are there any side effects of Lidocaine?
• Common side effects of Lidocaine may include temporary numbness, redness, itching, or a burning sensation at the application site. In rare cases, systemic side effects such as dizziness, confusion, slowed heart rate, or allergic reactions may occur. If you experience any side effects, seeking medical attention is important.

• What forms does Lidocaine come in?
• Lidocaine is available in various forms, including solutions for injection, creams, gels, ointments, sprays, patches, and even oral or nasal preparations.

• What is Lidocaine used for?
• Lidocaine is a local anesthetic medication commonly used to numb an area of the body for various medical procedures or relieve pain or discomfort from skin conditions, providing temporary relief for minor burns, sunburns, insect bites, or rashes.

• Where can Lidocaine patches be applied?
• Lidocaine patches are designed to be applied to the skin. They can be applied on various body areas, such as the neck, shoulders, knees, joints, and areas affected by postherpetic neuralgia, which is pain that persists after a shingles outbreak, depending on the site of pain or discomfort.