Drug
Lidocaine HCl
Pronounced
"LIE-doh-cane"
Side Effects
Mild nausea, stinging, swelling, or burning may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
This medication may cause very serious side effects if you are using too much of it or are very sensitive to its effects. Stop using this medication and get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: dizziness, drowsiness, slow/shallow breathing, mental/mood changes (such as confusion, nervousness), shaking, seizures, vision changes (such as double/blurred vision), ringing in the ears, fainting, pale/bluish/gray skin, unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using lidocaine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other anesthetics (such as bupivacaine, prilocaine); or to PABA; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: cuts/sores/bleeding in the area where this drug will be applied, heart problems (such as slow/irregular heartbeat, heart block), kidney disease, liver disease, a certain blood disorder (methemoglobinemia).
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or cause vision problems if you are using too much of it or are very sensitive to its effects. See Side Effects section. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Children may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially drowsiness and dizziness.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This medication passes into breast milk, but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.