Generic Name:
Lignocaine (also spelled Lidocaine) Injection 2%
Prescription Status:
Prescription-only medicine (Rx) – Must be prescribed by a registered healthcare provider.
Description:
Lignocaine Injection 2% is a local anesthetic and antiarrhythmic agent. It contains 20 mg of lignocaine hydrochloride per mL and is typically used for local or regional anesthesia and treatment of certain cardiac arrhythmias.
Nature / Class:
- Pharmacologic class: Local anesthetic (amide type)
- Therapeutic class: Anesthetic and antiarrhythmic
- Mechanism of action: Blocks sodium channels, stabilizing neuronal membranes and inhibiting nerve impulse conduction.
Purpose / Uses:
- Local anesthesia during minor surgical procedures (dental, skin, mucosal, etc.)
- Regional anesthesia (e.g., nerve blocks, epidural)
- Treatment of ventricular arrhythmias, especially during cardiac emergencies (used IV in such cases)
- Pain relief in certain acute conditions (e.g., post-herpetic neuralgia)
Advantages:
- Rapid onset of action
- Effective and reversible local anesthesia
- Useful for both anesthetic and cardiac emergency indications
- Reduces pain and discomfort during procedures
- Low systemic toxicity when administered correctly
Common Packaging:
- Glass vials or ampoules
- 2 mL, 5 mL, 10 mL, or 30 mL
- Concentration: 2% solution = 20 mg/mL
- With or without adrenaline (for prolonged anesthesia)
Storage Conditions:
- Store below 25°C (77°F)
- Protect from light and freezing
- Keep in original packaging until use
- Discard any unused portion after opening (single-use ampoules)
Patient Advice / Precautions:
- Inform your doctor about allergies, especially to local anesthetics.
- Not to be self-administered – only to be given by trained healthcare personnel.
- Report any signs of toxicity: dizziness, drowsiness, blurred vision, ringing in ears, or seizures.
- Avoid eating or drinking until sensation returns (if used in oral procedures).
- Not recommended in patients with severe heart block unless a pacemaker is present.
- Use with caution in pregnancy and lactation – only if clearly needed.