What is Lidocaine?
Lidocaine, also known as lignocaine, is an amino amide-type local anesthetic. It is also employed in the treatment of ventricular tachycardia. When used for local anesthesia or nerve blocks, lidocaine usually starts working within few minutes and lasts between 30 minutes and three hours. Lidocaine is available in gels, creams, liquids, sprays, eye drops, and patches as a topical anaesthetic.
Lidocaine Uses
This medication is used for applying on the skin to relieve itching and pain caused by certain skin conditions (such as scrapes, minor burns, eczema, insect bites), as well as to treat minor discomfort and itching caused by hemorrhoids and other genital/anal problems (e.g., anal fissures, itching around the vagina/rectum). Some forms of this medication are also used to alleviate discomfort or pain associated with certain medical procedures/exams (e.g., sigmoidoscopy, cystoscopy). Lidocaine is a local anaesthetic that works by temporarily numbing/deafening the skin and mucous membranes.
How to use:
- Before using this medication, read and follow all directions on the product package if you are self-treating with an over-the-counter product. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take it exactly prescribed.
- Clean and dry the affected area as directed before applying it to the skin. Apply a thin layer of medication to the affected area of the skin two to three times per day, or as directed.
- Before using the spray, give the canister a good shake. Spray until wet while holding the canister 3-5 inches (8-13 centimeters) away from the affected area. If the affected area is on your face, spray the medication on your hand and apply it to the affected area. Do not spray in your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- If you're using foam, shake the canister thoroughly before using it. Apply the foam to the affected area with your hand.
- Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, do not use on large areas of the body, cover the area with waterproof bandages or plastic, or apply heat. These may increase the likelihood of severe side effects.
- Unless you are treating an area on your hands, wash your hands immediately after use. Try not to get the product in your eyes, nose, or ears. If the medication gets into these areas, immediately rinse them with clean water.
- Do not use this medication if there is an infection or sore in the area to be treated without first consulting your doctor.
Lidocaine Side Effects
Some of the common side effects are:
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Discomfort
- Swelling
- Nausea
- Irritation
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Itching
Some of the serious side effects are:
- Seizures
- Rash
- Hives
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty while breathing
- Swallowing
- Fever
- Chills
Inform your doctor if you are having any serious health problems
Precautions
- Before taking this medicine talk with your doctor if you are allergic to it or any other medications related to it. The medication might contain some inactive ingredients which can cause some serious allergic reactions or some other serious health problems. Before taking the medications consult with your doctor if you are having any medical history such as Low blood count, Liver disease, intestinal problems, and kidney disease.
- If you are scheduled for an MRI, notify the testing personnel that you are using this product. Some brands of this medication may contain metals that can cause serious burns during an MRI and should not be taken prior to the procedure. Inquire with your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about your specific brand
- When using this drug in children, use caution because they may be more sensitive to the drug's side effects.
- This medication should not be used during pregnancy. Consult your doctor about the risk factors and outcomes
- This medication passes through breast milk, but it is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Before breastfeeding, talk to your doctor.
Interactions
Drug interactions can change the way your medicines work or put you at risk for adverse side effects. Maintain a list of all the products you use (including prescription and nonprescription drugs, as well as herbal supplements) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start on your own, stopping it suddenly, or change the dosage of any medications without first consulting your doctor.
Missed Dose
If you forget to take one dose, take it as soon as you remember, skip the missed dose and proceed with your daily schedule. To cope up with a missed dose, do not take a double dose.
Overdose
Overdose of a drug can be accidental. If you have taken more than the prescribed tablets there is a chance of getting harmful effects on your body’s functions.
Storage
Direct contact with heat, air, and light may damage your medicines. Exposure to medicine may cause some harmful effects. The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children’s reach.
Fondaparinux vs Heparin:
Lidocaine |
Bupivacaine |
|---|---|
| Lidocaine, also known as lignocaine, is an amino amide-type local anesthetic. | Bupivacaine is a prescription medication that is used to provide a local anaesthetic (numbing medicine). Bupivacaine is marketed under several brand names, including Marcaine and Sensorcaine |
| This medication is applied to the skin to relieve itching and pain caused by certain skin conditions as well as to treat minor discomfort and itching caused by hemorrhoids and other genital problems | It is used to reduce sensation in a specific area. In nerve blocks, it is injected around a nerve that supplies the area or into the epidural space of the spinal canal. |
| They function by preventing nerves from sending pain signals to the brain. As a result, they cause temporary numbness in the area where they are applied (a "local" anesthetic). | Bupivacaine works by blocking nerve impulses that send pain signals to the brain |
