What is Lidocaine?
Lidocaine, also known as lignocaine, is an amino amide-type local anesthetic widely used for its numbing effects. It treats various conditions, including ventricular tachycardia, and provides local anesthesia or nerve blocks. When applied, lidocaine typically starts working within minutes and can last from 30 minutes to three hours.
Lidocaine is available in multiple topical forms, including gels, creams, liquids, sprays, eye drops, and patches.
Uses of Lidocaine
- Relieving Itching and Pain from Skin Conditions:
- Scrapes
- Minor burns
- Eczema
- Insect bites
- Treatment of Hemorrhoids and Anal/Genital Problems:
- Itching around the vagina/rectum
- Alleviating Discomfort from Medical Procedures:
- Used as anesthesia for procedures such as sigmoidoscopy and cystoscopy
- Treatment of Ventricular Tachycardia:
- Used as an anesthesia in the treatment of this heart condition
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Get A Second OpinionSide Effects of Lidocaine
Common Side Effects:
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Discomfort
- Swelling
- Nausea
- Irritation
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Itching
Serious Side Effects:
- Seizures
- Rash
- Hives
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Fever
- Chills
Consult your doctor if you experience any serious health problems.
Precautions
- Allergies: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to lidocaine or similar drugs.
- Medical Conditions: Discuss any medical history, such as low blood count, liver, intestinal, or kidney problems.
- MRI: Inform testing personnel if you are scheduled for an MRI, as some brands may contain metals causing burns during the procedure.
- Children: Use with caution in children due to increased sensitivity to side effects.
- Pregnancy: Avoid use during pregnancy; discuss risks with your doctor.
- Breastfeeding: The medication passes through breast milk but is unlikely to harm nursing infants. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
How to Use Lidocaine
- Read Instructions: Follow all directions on the product package or as prescribed by a doctor.
- Clean and Dry Area: Before applying, ensure the affected area is clean and dry.
- Application: Apply a thin layer two to three times daily, or as directed.
- Spray: Shake the canister, hold it 3-5 inches away, and spray until wet. Avoid eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Foam: Shake thoroughly and apply to the affected area with a hand.
- Avoid Large areas, waterproof bandages, plastic coverings, or heat application unless directed by a doctor.
- Wash Hands: Immediately after use unless treating hands. Rinse with clean water if the product contacts the eyes, nose, or ears.
- Infections: Do not use on infected areas or sores without consulting a doctor.
Interactions
- Drug Interactions: Maintain a list of all products you use, including prescription and nonprescription drugs, and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.
- Consultation: Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medications without consulting your doctor.
Missed Dose
- Action: Take as soon as remember. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.
- Avoid: Do not double the dose to catch up.
Overdose
- Accidental Overdose: Can cause harmful effects. If overdosed, contact medical professionals immediately.
Storage Instructions
- Avoid Exposure: Keep away from heat, air, and light.
- Safe Place: Store in a safe place, out of reach of children.
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Book an AppointmentLidocaine vs. Bupivacaine
Lidocaine |
Bupivacaine |
---|---|
Known as lignocaine, an amino amide-type local anesthetic. |
A prescription medication marketed under brand names like Marcaine and Sensorcaine. |
Used to relieve itching and pain from skin conditions, hemorrhoids, and genital problems. |
Used for reducing sensation in a specific area by injecting around a nerve or into the epidural space. |
Functions by preventing nerves from sending pain signals to the brain, causing temporary numbness. |
Works by blocking nerve impulses that send pain signals to the brain. |