What is lidocaine?

Nov 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, lidocaine is a local anesthetic and is also used as a treatment for certain types of arrhythmias. It must be used strictly according to medical instructions. When used for local anesthesia, ensure skin cleanliness to prevent infection. Monitor for adverse reactions such as rash or dizziness after injection. When used to treat arrhythmias, heart rate, blood pressure, and electrocardiogram should be regularly monitored.

Generally, lidocaine is a local anesthetic and is also used as a treatment for certain types of arrhythmias. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Lidocaine blocks the conduction of nerve impulses. When applied locally, it suppresses pain signals from transmitting to the central nervous system, thereby achieving an anesthetic effect, and is commonly used in minor surgeries, dental procedures, and similar situations. As an antiarrhythmic agent, it slows down the conduction velocity of myocardial cells, prolongs the effective refractory period, stabilizes myocardial electrical activity, and thus helps terminate or prevent episodes of specific types of tachyarrhythmias. Both uses are based on the drug's modulation of sodium ion channels in cell membranes, differing only in administration routes and target sites.

Lidocaine must be used strictly according to medical instructions. For local anesthesia, ensure skin cleanliness to avoid infection; after injection, monitor for adverse reactions such as rash or dizziness. When used to treat arrhythmias, heart rate, blood pressure, and electrocardiograms should be monitored regularly. Do not adjust the dosage or discontinue the medication without medical guidance. Store the medication out of reach of children and separate from other drugs to prevent confusion. If redness, swelling, or itching occurs after local application, or if symptoms such as chest tightness or fatigue develop during treatment, inform your doctor promptly to ensure safe medication use.