What Is Lidocaine?

Lidocaine, also known as xylocaine, lignocaine, or 2-(diethylamino)-N-2,6-dimethylacetanilide, is a local anesthetic used to numb the area in which it's applied. Lidocaine is used most often in minor surgery, injections and burn treatment. Lidocaine blocks nerve signals that transmit pain to the brain. Lidocaine can also be used to treat irregular heartbeats or arrhythmias.

Uses of Lidocaine

Lidocaine can be used to anesthetize the skin before a surgical procedure. You can either apply it directly to your skin or inject the drug into your area. This is used for many dental procedures including root canals and tooth extractions. You can also use it for minor procedures like wound care, biopsies and suturing. Lidocaine can also be used for certain arrhythmias or irregular heartbeats.

Lidocaine can also be used with other drugs, like epinephrine to enhance its effectiveness. Combining this combination can be used to numb the affected areas during major surgeries or other invasive procedures. Lidocaine can also be used to relieve pain from sunburns or burns.

Lidocaine's Purported Benefits

Lidocaine provides fast, effective pain relief. Lidocaine can also be used to reduce inflammation and swelling. Lidocaine can also be used to treat certain arrhythmias and prevent future episodes. Lidocaine has also been proven to lower the chance of infections during procedures.

Check out the side effects of Lidocaine

Lidocaine is safe and generally well tolerated. However, there are some side effects. Side effects that are most commonly experienced include nausea, dizziness and lightheadedness. Rarely, however, lidocaine may cause severe side effects such as difficulty breathing or irregular heartbeats, an allergic reaction and chest pain. You should immediately stop taking lidocaine if you have any of these side-effects.

Lidocaine: Expert opinions or professional opinion

Most experts agree that lidocaine can provide short-term pain relief and discomfort. They warn, however that lidocaine should only be used under supervision by a qualified healthcare professional. Experts warn that patients who have a history of severe allergies to lidocaine must not use it.

Lidocaine: How do you get started?

It is important that you consult your doctor before considering the use of lidocaine. Based on your needs, your healthcare provider can determine which treatment is best for you. Lidocaine can be used safely and well if you follow all instructions.

Apply lidocaine topically directly to any affected areas. You should not apply lidocaine to damaged or broken skin as it could lead to side effects. You should also use a sterilized needle and syringe if lidocaine is being injected. Do not increase the dosage as you could experience side effects.

Do you need to be aware of side effects?

There are potential side effects to lidocaine. The most common side effects include nausea, dizziness and lightheadedness. Lidocaine can also cause allergic reactions in certain people. It is important that you inform your doctor if lidocaine has ever caused an allergic reaction. You should not exceed the prescribed dosage as it could lead to side effects.

Conclusion

Lidocaine is an effective and safe option to temporarily relieve pain and discomfort. It should only be used under supervision of a doctor. Follow the directions of your healthcare provider and keep an eye out for side effects. Lidocaine can be used correctly to provide quick relief for pain, swelling and inflammation.