About lidocaine hcl
Local anesthetic; amide
Used for
- Numbing tissue for minor procedures and local or regional anesthesia
- Sometimes used intravenously for certain abnormal heart rhythms
Usual adult dose
Injection dose depends on the procedure and body weight; clinicians use the lowest effective dose. Rhythm-treatment doses are given under monitoring.
Usual dose in children
For local anesthesia, dose is calculated by weight and kept within age-specific limits. Heart-rhythm use requires specialist dosing.
Common side effects
- Injection-site soreness or bruising
- Dizziness, tingling, or numbness
- Low blood pressure or slow heartbeat
- Rarely, seizures or serious heart problems from excessive blood levels
Important warnings
- Too much can cause seizures, breathing problems, or cardiac arrest.
- Use cautiously with liver disease, heart problems, or reduced blood flow.
- Only trained professionals should administer injectable lidocaine.
- Seek urgent care for severe dizziness, ringing ears, confusion, or seizures after injection.
Pregnancy
Use when clinically needed; local anesthetic use is generally considered acceptable under medical supervision.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts are expected to reach milk; use is generally compatible with breastfeeding.
Interactions
- Other local anesthetics or medicines containing lidocaine can increase toxicity.
- Some heart-rhythm medicines may increase cardiac effects.
- Medicines that affect liver enzymes may alter lidocaine levels.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.