Drug
Lidocaine HCl
Pronounced
"LIE-doh-cane VISS-kuss"
Uses
See also Warning section.
Viscous lidocaine is used to relieve pain and discomfort from a sore throat/mouth. It is also used to numb the lining of the mouth and throat before certain medical/dental procedures (such as dental impressions). This numbing helps prevent the urge to close the throat (gag reflex), which might make the procedure more difficult. Lidocaine belongs to a class of drugs known as local anesthetics.
Warning
Use of this medication by children younger than 3 years has caused serious (sometimes fatal) side effects, including seizure and slowed/stopped heart. If this medication is prescribed for use by a child younger than 3 years, carefully follow the doctor's directions. Do not increase the dose or give this medication more often than directed. Do not use this medication to treat teething pain in infants and young children unless directed by the doctor. Talk with the doctor about other ways to treat teething pain. Keep this product in a safe place away from children.
Other Uses
This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
This medication may also be used to relieve pain and discomfort from irritation of the esophagus (esophagitis).
How to Use This Medication
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using lidocaine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Shake the bottle well before each dose. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. Do not mix with other liquid or food unless directed by your doctor.
Use this medication as directed by your doctor, usually as needed for pain or soreness. For mouth pain, swish the dose in your mouth, then spit out. To treat a sore throat, gargle with the medication, then swallow or spit out, as directed by your doctor. To treat irritation of the esophagus, swallow the dose as directed by your doctor. Children should not swallow this medication unless directed by their doctor.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Children's dosage is also based on age and weight. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed, because your risk of side effects will increase. Overdose has occurred in children accidentally given the wrong dose. Follow the doctor's instructions carefully.
For infants and children younger than 3 years, carefully measure the prescribed dose and apply to the affected area with a cotton swab. Wait at least 3 hours before giving the next dose. See also Warning section.
This medication numbs the mouth and throat. Numbness may make swallowing difficult and increase your risk of swallowing the wrong way or choking. Do not chew gum or eat for 1 hour after using this product and while your mouth or throat is numb. It is especially important for children to not eat or chew gum for at least 1 hour after using this product. Be careful not to accidentally bite your tongue or mouth.
Lidocaine starts to numb the affected area within 5 minutes after use. If you are using this product before certain procedures, tell your doctor if the area does not feel numb or the numbness does not go away. If you are using this product to relieve pain/discomfort, tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.