Lidocaine / Lignocaine

Description

Lidocaine is a local anaesthetic used to temporarily numb a specific area of th

e body. When applied or injected, it blocks nerve signals in that region, causing a brief loss of sensation so you don’t feel pain. This effect is helpful during minor surgical procedures, dental treatments, or medical tests that may otherwise be uncomfortable. It is available in different forms such as injections, creams, gels, and sprays. Injections are used by doctors to numb a deeper area before a procedure, while creams, gels, and sprays are commonly used on the skin or mucous membranes for quick relief or minor procedures. The numbing effect usually starts within a few minutes and wears off gradually. If you experience any unusual reactions, such as a rash, dizziness, or breathing difficulty after using Lidocaine, seek medical help immediately.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses

Burns
Insect bites
Hemorrhoids
Severe sore throats
Mouth and throat ulcers

Contraindications

When should one not use Lidocaine / Lignocaine

Allergy to this medicine
Intraventricular block (a blockage in the lower chambers of the heart)
Cardiogenic shock (a severe condition in which the patient’s heart is abruptly unable to pump enough blood to meet their body’s requirement)
Congestive Heart Failure - CHF

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Difficulty in breathing, swelling of the face, neck, tongue or throat
Swelling or rashes
Itching

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Lidocaine / Lignocaine during pregnancy?

It is considered safe for use during pregnancy but take medicine only if prescribed by the doctor.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Lidocaine / Lignocaine while breastfeeding?

Lidocaine can reach breast milk for a female patient but it is not seen to harm a baby. Yet, a doctor’s consultation is important before using this medicine.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Lidocaine / Lignocaine?

Lidocaine may weaken your thinking or responses. It is advised not to drive unless you feel alright after taking this medicine.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Lidocaine / Lignocaine?

It is not recommended to consume alcohol when taking this medicine.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

This medicine may cause numbness of your tongue
You must take care when eating or drinking hot foods or drinks
You have suffered from methemoglobinemia
You have G6PD deficiency

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

This medicine creates temporary numbness in the mucous membranes and skin by reversibly blocking the nerves when applied on an area of the body.

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Other anaesthetics or medicines similar to Lidocaine
Erythromycin, a type of antibiotic, used to treat bacterial infections
Itraconazole an antifungal kind of medication used to treat fungal infections
Antiarrhythmic medicines such as Amiodarone which are used to control abnormal heartbeats
Cimetidine used to treat stomach ulcers or heartburn
Beta-blockers used to treat heart conditions, high blood pressure or migraine
Calcium Chloride used for the treatment of hypocalcaemia or as a food additive
Codeine Phosphate used to relieve coughs

Interactions with food items

There are no indications found that Lidocaine interacts with any food.

Dosage

Overdose

If swallowed or inhaled, the medicine can cause problems. Consult your doctor immediately.

Missed a Dose

After missing an application, apply for the next treatment according to the regular schedule — no need to double your medicine or increase the amount.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Ravindra Ghongade

B. Pharm

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Nikita Toshi

BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use it on the skin of my child?

A: A qualified doctor should analyze the child’s condition and prescribe the right quantity.

Q: What should I do if I accidentally spray this medicine in my eyes?

A: If you happen to spray this medicine into your eyes, wash your eyes with water and seek medical help.

References

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Last Updated on: 20 Nov 2025 | 11:46 PM (IST)

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Disclaimer

The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.